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LocalSend is the best first option for most people who want a free, open-source way to share files across different platforms. It supports Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS and Fire OS, and sends files over a local network without requiring internet access or a third-party server. You do need the app on both devices, and they must be able to communicate on the same network.
Choose KDE Connect instead if you also want phone-to-computer features such as notifications, remote controls and file browsing. Neither app is a technical clone of AirDrop: both provide their own cross-device sharing workflows, with different setup and discovery requirements.
Which AirDrop alternative should you choose?
| Option | Best for | Platforms and scope | Network or setup considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| LocalSend | Sharing files between a mix of desktop and mobile platforms | Project distribution channels include Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS and Fire OS. It focuses on local file and message sharing. LocalSend project | Both devices need LocalSend and local-network connectivity. The project says transfers do not require internet access or third-party servers. LocalSend project |
| KDE Connect | Sharing plus a broader phone-and-computer toolkit | Includes file and link sharing, remote phone-file browsing, notifications, remote commands, media control, and presentation and trackpad features. KDE Connect project | Check that the app supports the devices in your specific setup and that those devices can discover one another on your network; the project feature summary does not establish a single network setup for every platform. KDE Connect project |
LocalSend: the straightforward cross-platform pick
LocalSend is a practical choice when the main problem is moving files among devices from different manufacturers—for example, sending a photo from an iPhone to a Windows PC. Its documented platform list spans common desktop systems as well as Android, iOS and Fire OS, so it can cover many mixed-device households and workplaces.
Transfers happen over the local network. According to the project, LocalSend does not need an internet connection or a third-party server for this sharing workflow. That does not mean the devices can be on unrelated or isolated networks: they still need local connectivity to find and communicate with each other. LocalSend project
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- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
What to expect when setting it up
- Install LocalSend on both the sending and receiving devices.
- Connect the devices to a network where local devices are allowed to communicate.
- Grant the app any relevant local-network or firewall permissions requested by the operating system.
- Select the receiving device in LocalSend and choose the files or message to send.
The project documents incoming TCP and UDP traffic on port 53317. If a device does not appear, its troubleshooting guidance points to access-point isolation, firewall rules, Windows public-network restrictions, macOS or iOS local-network permissions, and VPNs that block LAN traffic as possible causes. LocalSend troubleshooting and contribution notes
Updates and transfer speed
LocalSend’s repository says installations made directly do not auto-update, and recommends obtaining the app through an app store or package manager. Check for current releases if an installation seems outdated. The repository also notes a known slow-transfer issue on Android; actual speed depends on the devices and network, so no fixed transfer rate should be assumed. LocalSend repository
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
KDE Connect: choose it for more than file transfers
KDE Connect is a stronger fit if file sharing is only one part of what you want. Its feature set also includes sharing links, browsing files on a connected phone remotely, viewing notifications, sending remote commands, controlling media, and using presentation or trackpad features. KDE Connect project
That broader scope makes it worth considering for an ongoing phone-and-computer connection, rather than a utility used only to send an occasional file. Before installing, verify support for the exact operating systems and devices you intend to pair; availability and setup can differ across platforms.
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- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
How to decide
- Pick LocalSend when your priority is direct file sharing across a broad mix of supported platforms.
- Pick KDE Connect when you also want notifications, remote controls, link sharing or phone-file browsing.
- Check network permissions first if LocalSend devices cannot find one another. Firewall settings, router isolation, local-network permissions or a VPN can interfere with discovery.
- Do not expect an AirDrop replica. These apps require their own installation and use different discovery and network arrangements.
Alternatives not ranked here
Warpinator and PairDrop also come up in discussions of AirDrop alternatives, but the available verified details do not establish enough about their current platform support and operating constraints to recommend them alongside these options. Confirm those details from each project’s current official information before relying on either for a particular device combination.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
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