LocalSend

LocalSend Web Alternative

Get LocalSend-like file transfer directly in your browser – no installation needed.

LocalSend is a great open-source app for local file transfer. But what if you can't or don't want to install an app?

Let's compare InstDrop as a web-based alternative to LocalSend.

What is InstDrop?

InstDrop is a web application for fast one-time file transfer between devices using WebRTC technology. It works directly in the browser without the need for installation, login or registration. Data is transferred directly between devices (peer-to-peer) and is never stored on any server.

What is LocalSend?

LocalSend is an open-source, cross-platform app for sharing files locally. It works offline and uses encryption for secure transfers between devices on the same network.

Installation Requirements

InstDrop

  • Works entirely in browser
  • No download required
  • Instant access on any device

LocalSend

  • App installation required
  • Must install on both devices
  • Native performance once installed

Winner: InstDrop – zero installation

Remote Transfer

InstDrop

  • Works across different networks
  • QR code pairing anywhere
  • Relay fallback when needed

LocalSend

  • Local network only
  • Cannot send to remote devices
  • Truly offline capable

Winner: InstDrop – works remotely too

Transfer Speed

InstDrop

  • Fast P2P transfers
  • No server bottleneck

Full LAN speed via WebRTC

LocalSend

  • Excellent local performance
  • Native app efficiency

Full LAN speed native

Tie – both are fast locally

Privacy & Security

InstDrop

  • P2P encrypted transfer
  • No data stored on servers

LocalSend

  • Fully offline capable
  • HTTPS encryption

Tie – both respect privacy

Features

InstDrop

  • QR code pairing
  • Image previews
  • Web-based limitations

LocalSend

  • Send text/clipboard
  • Folder sharing
  • Multiple file selection

Winner: LocalSend – more features

Platform Support

InstDrop

  • Any device with browser
  • No compatibility issues

LocalSend

  • Windows, Mac, Linux, mobile
  • Native app for each platform

Tie – both work everywhere

Practical Recommendations

Use InstDrop when:

  • No installation possible – Work computers, borrowed devices
  • Remote transfers needed – Sending across different networks
  • Quick one-time share – Don't want to install apps
  • Any browser works – Universal compatibility

Use LocalSend when:

  • Frequent local transfers – Regular sharing on home network
  • Truly offline needed – No internet at all
  • Advanced features – Clipboard, folders, multiple files
  • Native app preferred – Better integration with OS

Final Rating

CriterionInstDropLocalSend
No Installation
Speed
Privacy
Ease of Use
Features
Remote Transfer

Conclusion

InstDrop offers LocalSend-like simplicity in your browser, plus the ability to send files remotely without app installation.

LocalSend is excellent for frequent local transfers with advanced features, but requires installation on all devices.

Need instant file sharing without installing anything? Try InstDrop!

Try InstDrop

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What is P2P File Transfer?

Discover how peer-to-peer technology enables fast, private, and secure file sharing.

What is WebRTC and How Does It Work?

WebRTC is the technology that powers InstDrop's secure, direct file transfers between devices. Here's everything you need to know.

How to Verify the Transfer is Encrypted?

InstDrop uses WebRTC technology, which automatically encrypts all data using DTLS and SRTP protocols. Here's how you can verify it yourself.

Where are your files stored?

When you save a received file, it stays exclusively in your browser. Nothing is sent to any server. Here's how you can verify it.

Does your browser support WebRTC?

InstDrop uses WebRTC for direct P2P file transfer between devices. Find out if your browser is compatible.

Why Can't WebRTC Connections Be Saved?

WebRTC connections are inherently temporary and cannot be serialized for future use. This limitation is actually a security advantage.

What is Paranoid Mode?

Paranoid Mode provides enhanced security for your transfers by ensuring exclusive 1:1 communication between exactly two devices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to the most common questions about InstDrop and secure file transfer.