Irrespective of your job role, managing files needs to be done almost everyday. However, fumbling with messy file links and losing documents in endless email threads can give you countless headaches. File sharing software can cut through the chaos and help you solve your everyday file sharing woes. If you are new to the software, a free file sharing app can be a perfect starting point for your basic needs.
To help you make the right choice, this article highlights in alphabetical order, four top-rated free file sharing software products based on verified software reviews.
We’ve categorized these products into different categories—dedicated file sharing platforms, document collection tools, and Outlook add-in solution. Nonetheless, some common features across all these products include collaboration and cloud storage.
What is free software?
Free software refers to software that users can access and use without incurring any costs. To meet this criterion, a software solution should grant users free access to either all or some of its features. Software requiring payment after a specific time frame does not qualify as free software.
1. FileInvite
FileInvite is an online document collection platform that automates the process of collecting information and documents from business clients. The software features a secure document upload portal that can be used to request documents, digital signatures, files, and data from clients. Users can set portal permissions to restrict file access within a specific client portal. Additionally, they can secure the portal using password protection and switch it on or off as required.
The free version of FileInvite enables users to send up to three document invites per month, with a maximum file transfer size of 1.5 GB. If you need more than three requests a month, you need to invest in the paid versions of the software.
Free featuresRequest templates: Request files from clients using request templates that include fields for essential information, including client names, specific file types, and upload instructions.
Automatic PDF conversion: Automatically convert an uploaded file to PDF, which is a widely compatible file format across different devices and operating systems. This ensures that everyone has access to the file with the original formatting when collaborating.
HIPAA compliance: Safeguard sensitive information in accordance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). HIPAA compliance ensures that sensitive data is protected from unauthorized access, disclosure, and misuse.
Customer support options: Phone, chat, and knowledge base
Who should consider FileInvite?
Professionals who wish to send and receive files via a secure online portal can consider FileInvite. With bank-grade security measures, including service organization control (SOC 2)We selected products for this article based on their average ratings as of January 2024; however, the article displays each product’s current average rating, which may differ if more reviews have been left since our analysis.
Trial/Free Version
- Free Trial
- Free Version
Cost to upgrade
Billing cycle
Device compatibility
2. ShareDocView
ShareDocView is a file sharing tool that helps users generate email leads and obtain insights by sharing documents. Whenever you share a document via ShareDocView, recipients can choose to download the document by providing their email addresses, which gives businesses a verified list of individuals who are interested in the content. The software facilitates the generation of unique QR codes for quick file access. Users can simply scan the code with their mobile device to instantly open the file in their web browser or ShareDocView app. This provides a convenient way for recipients to access digital files.
ShareDocView, in its free plan, supports up to 2 GB of file storage and enables transfers of up to 25 GB file size. If you need more storage or increased file size for transfers, you need to upgrade to a paid plan.
Free featuresDownload notifications: Receive notifications for every file view and download. The feature makes it easier for users to monitor file access and follow up on leads signaling interest or engagement.
Visitor email verification: Authenticate the identity of visitors accessing shared files using their email addresses. The feature serves as an extra layer of protection for sensitive files and ensures that only authorized individuals can access shared content.
Lead export: Enable file owners to export visitor information or potential leads as a CSV file for marketing or sales purposes. Users can capture unlimited leads in the free plan for further follow-up.
Customer support options: Live chat and knowledge base
Who should consider ShareDocView?
Marketing and sales professionals looking for a tool to create convenient access to shared files and build a network of potential clients can opt for ShareDocView. With features such as lead export and email verification, the software enables users to get more email leads in the form of individuals who engage with shared documents. It also offers unique QR codes for enhancing secure information sharing, even in offline settings.
We selected products for this article based on their average ratings as of January 2024; however, the article displays each product’s current average rating, which may differ if more reviews have been left since our analysis.
Trial/Free Version
- Free Trial
- Free Version
Cost to upgrade
Billing cycle
Device compatibility
/ Pro tip
Shortlist a file sharing app that protects sensitive information using a variety of safety protocols. These may include password protection, end-to-end encryption, multi-factor authentication, security alerts, and compliance with security regulations.
3. totle
totle is an Outlook add-in solution that allows users to attach and securely share large files and folders to emails. Users can leverage the tool to set expiration dates for file downloads, along with storage periods and locations for file attachments. The tool also enables file management that allows users to view detailed information about the attached files and their download history. They can also delete unnecessary large files from emails to secure additional storage.
The free plan of totle allows users to send three large file attachments per month and offers online storage of up to 5 GB per user. Moreover, it permits up to 10 large file downloads per day. If you need additional storage, downloads, or unlimited file attachments, upgrade to the paid version of the software.
Free featuresRead receipts and notifications: Confirm file delivery with the help of read receipts and notifications offered by the tool. The free plan of the software offers up to 10 notifications per month.
File storage: Store various file types, including documents and images in a central location. The software offers a minimum 7-day storage period that can go up to unlimited days, based on your selected plan.
Separate sending: Send emails with large file attachments to multiple recipients with a single click without disclosing their email addresses. The software also enables users to encrypt and compress email attachments before sending them.
Customer support options: Email, online inquiry form, and help center
Who should consider totle?
Professionals, such as graphic designers and data scientists who wish to share large files, including data reports and high-resolution images, over email can consider totle. The software enables users to share large files in Outlook and restrict access to shared files and folders by setting storage periods. It also offers read receipts, putting the power in the hands of users, and letting them see exactly when, how often, and from which devices the emails were accessed. This helps file owners track file delivery, understand recipient engagement, and identify potential delivery issues.
We selected products for this article based on their average ratings as of January 2024; however, the article displays each product’s current average rating, which may differ if more reviews have been left since our analysis.
Trial/Free Version
- Free Trial
- Free Version
Cost to upgrade
Billing cycle
Device compatibility
4. WeTransfer
WeTransfer is another file sharing platform for sharing different types of files. The software allows professionals to invite clients to comment on files and give approvals—without having to download the files. Users can simply create a review request for clients, add desired files for approvals, and even seek specific feedback by adding a request to let reviewers know what exactly is required. Additionally, they can make their deadlines clear by setting due dates for file reviews.
The free plan of the software allows users to send up to 2 GB files with limited reviews. However, an upgraded version of the tool supports up to a 200 GB transfer size limit with advanced features, such as password-protected transfers, custom transfer wallpapers, and unlimited reviews.
Free featuresData encryption: Send and secure your files with transport layer security (TLS) and advanced encryption standard (AES)-256 encryption. Data encryption in WeTransfer prevents unauthorized entities from accessing sensitive information during transmission.
Wallpaper backgrounds: Upload images and videos in the background while sending and receiving files. This feature allows users to create an engaging experience for WeTransfer recipients.
Download tracking: Keep track of users who have downloaded or not downloaded the files. This is especially beneficial for understanding engagement, following up with recipients, and refining file-sharing practices.
Customer support options: Knowledge base and online inquiry form
Who should consider WeTransfer?
Professionals who wish to try a file sharing tool that allows them to obtain real-time feedback on their work can go for WeTransfer. With features, such as commenting and reviews, the software offers users an easy way to share their work and get clear feedback to keep projects moving. Clients can simply preview files and give feedback, all from a single link without the need to sign up. The software also offers due date reminders that notify assigned reviewers about the upcoming deadline via email.
We selected products for this article based on their average ratings as of January 2024; however, the article displays each product’s current average rating, which may differ if more reviews have been left since our analysis.
Trial/Free Version
- Free Trial
- Free Version
Cost to upgrade
Billing cycle
Device compatibility
/ Pro tip
Consider a free file sharing app that allows administrators to set access levels, expiration dates, and download limits on files. This will ensure that your files are shared securely and with the right level of control.
What is the cost to upgrade from a free file sharing software to a paid one?
File sharing software upgrades can be as low as $3 per month, or increase up to $479+ per month, depending on various factors—features, storage space, transfer limits, number of users, integration capabilities, and more. Most file sharing platforms typically include the following subscription plans:
Free trials: No-cost plans ranging between 10-30 days, giving users access to all or limited software features. These are ideal for businesses that wish to try out a tool before purchasing it.
Free versions: Free software plans offer basic features and limited premium feature access. This is ideal for small businesses on a budget.
Entry-level plans: Start at $3 per month, and offer limited features. This option is suitable for small businesses or teams with limited storage space and feature requirements which may include cloud storage and secure sharing.
Mid-tier plans: Range from $10 to $239 per month and offer increased storage, additional users, and increased file transfer size. These are ideal for businesses that have outgrown basic file sharing solutions but don’t require the full range of functionality offered by enterprise-level tools.
High-end plans: Advanced plans that can cost over $479 per month and offer priority support, unlimited transfers, and more. These are ideal for teams and departments that need a customized solution for sharing files.
Hidden costs associated with file sharing software
Besides the software license, there may be additional costs associated with an online file sharing solution, including:
Training expenses: Implementing new software may necessitate training sessions for your team which might add up to the original cost.
Data migration costs: Migrating data from existing systems to the new file sharing system or switching to a different file sharing platform later may require expert assistance, which can escalate the original cost.
Integration expenses: Integrating your file sharing platform with existing systems may give rise to additional expenses.
Frequently asked questions when selecting free file sharing software
Here are some questions to ask software providers before selecting the best file sharing app:
What are the file types supported by the tool?
Free file sharing solutions can support a wide range of file types, including Word documents, PDFs, graphic files, images, and video files. However, not all tools are designed the same. You may find some software limitations and specific restrictions around the file types supported by the system. Therefore, it is important to inquire about the supported file types to ensure that the platform aligns most closely with your needs.
What is the file size available in the free plan?
Free software plans usually come with storage constraints, measured in gigabytes (GB). Before you finalize the tool, It is necessary to understand the maximum size of individual files you can upload and the total amount of data you can store. Once you know the limitations, you can optimize your workflows and streamline the file-sharing process.
What are the collaboration features offered by the tool?
While evaluating the best file sharing app, make sure that the software offers features, such as commenting, annotations, shared folders, and real-time editing for increased productivity. Collaboration features in an online file sharing system also enhance communication and collaborative efforts among users.