Transferring large files can be a hassle. Whether it’s a video, a high-resolution photo, or a large document, most traditional methods have limitations on file size. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 15 websites that make it easy to send big files online. We’ll discuss their benefits, drawbacks, purpose, and alternatives, and provide some useful tips for selecting the best one for your needs.
Benefits of Using Online File Transfer Services
Time and Cost Efficiency
Online file transfer services save time and money by allowing you to send large files without the need for physical media like DVDs or USB drives. This eliminates shipping costs and the risk of losing or damaging your data in transit.
Universal Accessibility
These services are available from any device with an internet connection, making it convenient for both the sender and recipient. This flexibility is especially useful for remote teams and collaborations.
Data Security
Many of these websites offer encryption and password protection to ensure your files are secure during transfer. This added layer of security is crucial for sensitive information.
Drawbacks of Using Online File Transfer Services
Limitations on Free Services
Free versions of these services often come with limitations, such as file size restrictions, reduced transfer speeds, or a limited number of monthly transfers. For users with higher demands, premium plans may be necessary.
Data Privacy Concerns
You’re trusting a third-party with your data by using online file transfer services. Always read the terms of service and privacy policies before using these websites to ensure your data is handled responsibly.
Potential Downtime
As with any online service, file transfer websites may experience downtime or technical issues, causing delays or disruptions in your file transfers.
Read Also: 10 The Best Free Cloud Storage Services to Keep Your Files Secure
Top 15 Websites to Send Big Files Online
In this section, we’ll dive into the features, benefits, and drawbacks of 15 popular websites for sending large files online.
1. WeTransfer
WeTransfer is a well-known file transfer service that offers a simple and user-friendly interface. You can send files up to 2GB for free. For larger files and more features, consider their premium plans.
Pros:
- Easy-to-use interface
- No registration required for free transfers
- Encrypted file transfers
Cons:
- Limited file size for free transfers
- No password protection in the free version
2. Google Drive
Google Drive is a popular cloud storage service that allows users to share large files quickly and easily. With a Google account, you get 15GB of free storage, and you can share files or folders with others via a link.
Pros:
- Generous free storage
- Integration with other Google services
- Real-time collaboration on documents
Cons:
- Requires a Google account
- Privacy concerns due to Google’s data collection
3. Dropbox
Dropbox is another widely-used cloud storage platform that allows for easy file sharing. You can send files up to 2GB with a free account or opt for a premium plan for more storage and features.
Pros:
- Simple file sharing through links
- Integration with various apps and services
- File version history and recovery
Cons:
- Limited free storage (2GB)
- Paid plans can be expensive
4. Filemail
Filemail is a straightforward file transfer service that allows you to send files up to 50GB for free without registration. The platform also offers premium plans with additional features.
Pros:
- Large file size limit for free transfers
- No registration required
- Encrypted file transfers
Cons:
- Files expire after 7 days on the free plan
- No password protection for free transfers
5. MediaFire
MediaFire is a cloud storage service that provides 10GB of free storage space. You can share files through direct links or email, and the service also offers premium plans with more storage and features.
Pros:
- Generous free storage
- Easy file sharing through links or email
- Mobile app available
Cons:
- Ads in the free version
- Limited file size (4GB) for free transfers
6. pCloud Transfer
pCloud Transfer is a simple file transfer service that allows you to send files up to 5GB for free and 2TB a lifetime for low cost. The platform offers encryption and password protection for added security.
Pros:
- No registration required
- Encrypted file transfers
- Password protection
Cons:
- Limited file size for free transfers
- No cloud storage options
7. Send Anywhere
Send Anywhere is a versatile file transfer platform that allows you to send files through various methods, including direct links, email, and QR codes. The free version supports file transfers up to 10GB.
Pros:
- Multiple transfer options
- Real-time file transfers
- Mobile app available
Cons:
- Files expire after 48 hours on the free plan
- Limited file size for free transfers
8. Fromsmash
Smash is a user-friendly file transfer service with no file size limitations. The platform offers password protection and the ability to customize the download page with your branding.
Pros:
- Unlimited file size for transfers
- Customizable download pages
- Password protection
Cons:
- Files expire after 14 days on the free plan
- Slower transfer speeds for free users
9. Tresorit Send
Tresorit Send is a secure file transfer service that allows you to send files up to 5GB for free without registration. The platform uses end-to-end encryption to ensure your data remains private.
Pros:
- End-to-end encryption
- No registration required
- Password protection
Cons:
- Limited file size for free transfers
- No cloud storage options
10. TransferNow
TransferNow is a simple file transfer service that supports transfers up to 4GB for free without registration. The platform offers premium plans for larger files and additional features.
Pros:
- No registration required
- Easy file sharing through links or email
- Mobile app available
- You can send large files up to 200 GB per transfer
- Secure file transfer via email or shareable links
- Protect your transfers with a password
- Your files will be stored and encrypted at rest (AES-256)
Cons:
- Limited file size for free transfers
- Files expire after 7 days on the free plan
11. DropSend
DropSend is a free file transfer service that allows you to send files up to 4GB. The platform offers password protection and the ability to send files directly to the recipient’s email.
Pros:
- Password protection
- Direct email delivery
- Mobile app available
- You can store files and create sharable folders
- Collaborate with Anyone
- Many Formats Like PNG, JPG, Video, Zip, XLS and more.
Cons:
- Limited file size for free transfers
- Limited number of transfers per month on the free plan
12. Hightail
Hightail is a professional file transfer and collaboration platform that supports sending files up to 100MB on the free plan. The service offers premium plans with more features and larger file size limits.
Pros:
- Collaboration and project management tools
- Customizable download pages
- Mobile app available
- Securely share large files with instant recipient email notifications
- Sync files from Microsoft OneDrive and Dropbox
- Upload share and receive large files
Cons:
- Small file size limit on the free plan
- Limited storage on the free plan
- FREE Up to 100 MB
13. Securely Send
Securely Send is a file transfer service that focuses on security and privacy. The platform offers password protection and encryption for all file transfers. The free plan allows you to send files up to 200MB.
Pros:
- Send files securely encryption and password protection
- Easy file sharing through email
- Customizable expiration dates
Cons:
- Limited file size for free transfers
- No cloud storage options
- Send files up to 200MB
14. FileDropper
FileDropper is a straightforward file transfer platform that allows you to send files up to 5GB for free. The service offers direct links for file sharing and premium plans with more features.
Pros:
- Large file size limit for free transfers
- Easy file sharing through direct links
- No registration required
Cons:
- Files expire after 30 days on the free plan
- No password protection or encryption
15. Transferxl
TransferXL is a fast and secure file-sharing service that allows users to send large files easily. It caters to various needs, whether it’s sharing a confidential contract, numerous holiday photos, or even a multi-gigabyte video. The service ensures a perfect data transfer experience for its users.
One of the notable aspects of TransferXL is that it offers free file transfers up to 5 GB, and this feature will always remain free to use. For those who require larger file transfers, they can explore the Plans & Pricing options available.
With TransferXL, users can send files up to an impressive size of 200 GB. The service can handle it seamlessly, whether it’s a massive folder containing 1,247 photos and videos from a recent trip or any other large file.
Pros:
- File transfers up to 5 GB for basic features
- Send files up to 200 GB
- Easy file transfer
- Secure online data transfer
- Fast file sharing
- Manage & track your file transfers
- Transfer history
- Send high-resolution pictures
- Send large videos
- Send large files via e-mail
- You can cancel your subscription anytime
Cons:
- Limited file size for transfers
- No encryption or password protection
- Expensive offer
Conclusion
In this guide, we’ve explored 15 websites that make it easy to send large files online. Each platform has unique features, benefits, and drawbacks, so consider your needs and priorities when choosing the best option. With so many file transfer services available, you’re sure to find the perfect solution for sending big files quickly, securely, and efficiently.
