AirDrop is one of those Apple features that "just works" — tap a button, and files fly between your iPhone, iPad, and Mac. But it's Apple-only. If you have a Windows PC, a Linux machine, or need to share with Android users, you need an alternative.

We've tested the most popular options and ranked them based on ease of use, cross-platform support, privacy, and features.

1. Handrive — Best for Privacy & Persistent Sharing

Platforms: macOS, Windows, Linux
Network: Works across any network (not just local WiFi)
Price: Free

Handrive is a privacy-first P2P file sharing app that works like AirDrop but with more features. Unlike most alternatives, it works across different networks — not just when you're on the same WiFi.

What makes it different:

Persistent shares that stay available (not just one-time transfers)
Works through firewalls and across the internet
Role-based permissions (Admin, Editor, Viewer)
End-to-end encryption
Headless mode for running on a NAS or server

Best for: People who want privacy-focused sharing with ongoing collaboration, not just one-time transfers.

2. LocalSend — Best Open Source Option

Platforms: macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, Android
Network: Same local network only
Price: Free, open source

LocalSend is an open-source alternative that works on virtually every platform. It's designed to be a direct AirDrop replacement — open the app, see nearby devices, and send files.

Pros: Fully open source, supports all platforms including mobile, no account needed.
Cons: Only works on the same local network. Can't share with someone in a different location.

Best for: Quick local transfers when you want an open-source solution.

3. PairDrop — Best Browser-Based Option

Platforms: Any device with a browser
Network: Same local network only
Price: Free

PairDrop is a web app that works entirely in your browser — no installation required. Just open pairdrop.net on both devices, and you can send files instantly.

Pros: No installation, works on any device with a browser, very simple.
Cons: Requires same network, no persistence, no mobile app.

Best for: One-time transfers when you can't or don't want to install anything.

4. ShareDrop — Simple & Web-Based

Platforms: Any device with a browser
Network: Same local network only
Price: Free, open source

ShareDrop is similar to PairDrop — a web-based file sharing tool that uses WebRTC for direct transfers. It's been around longer and is fully open source.

Pros: No installation, open source, simple interface.
Cons: Same network only, ephemeral (no persistence).

Best for: Quick, casual sharing in the same location.

5. Nearby Share (Google) — Best for Android + Windows

Platforms: Android, Windows
Network: Bluetooth + WiFi
Price: Free

Google's Nearby Share (previously Quick Share on Samsung) is built into Android and now has a Windows app. It's the closest thing to AirDrop in the Google ecosystem.

Pros: Built into Android, official Windows app, works well.
Cons: No macOS or Linux support, requires Google account.

Best for: Android users who also have a Windows PC.

Comparison Table

App	Platforms	Cross-Network	Persistent	Permissions
Handrive	Mac, Win, Linux	Yes	Yes	Yes
LocalSend	All platforms	No	No	No
PairDrop	Browser	No	No	No
ShareDrop	Browser	No	No	No
Nearby Share	Android, Win	No	No	No

Which Should You Choose?

For quick local transfers: LocalSend or PairDrop
For Android + Windows: Nearby Share
For privacy and ongoing collaboration: Handrive
For sharing across different networks: Handrive (it's the only one that works)

Most of these tools are free, so you can try multiple and use the right one for each situation.

Try Handrive

The AirDrop alternative that works across any network. Free for Mac, Windows, and Linux.

Download Handrive