Side by side
Filemail vs PairDrop
Both stand on file transfer services. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan API
Filemail offers a free entry point and plans with different transfer and storage allowances, plus an Enterprise MFT option. Check the listed plan limits against your transfer needs; prices are not provided.
Visit Filemail Free plan Self-hostedWeb
PairDrop offers several ways to move files between devices, with persistent pairing and temporary public rooms for internet transfers. Readers should note its server trust caveat and the possible speed reduction when traffic uses TURN.
Visit PairDropThe facts
| Filemail | PairDrop | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | API | Self-hosted, Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 5 | 1 |
| Maker | Filemail | Not published |
| Website | filemail.com | pairdrop.app |
| On file transfer services | #30 of 105 | #34 of 105 |
Filemail: what it does well
- Free plan and 7-day trial
- Download tracking and custom branding
- Personal includes 250 GB storage
- Business allows 50 recipients per transfer
- Enterprise MFT includes compliance support
What to know first
- Maximum file size is 5 GB
- Basic and Personal list 5 GB transfer size
PairDrop: what it does well
- Transfers images, documents, and text
- Local-network transfers can be peer to peer
- Pairing persists after reopening
- Supports multiple files and ZIP downloads
- Can be self-hosted with Docker or Node.js
What to know first
- TURN routing can reduce transfer speed
- Users still have to trust the PairDrop server
- Closing PairDrop leaves a public room
Alternatives to Filemail Alternatives to PairDrop The whole list