LocalBeam vs. the alternatives
Most ways to send a file either lock you into one ecosystem, require an install, or route your files through a cloud server. LocalBeam works across platforms, needs no install, and never uploads your files anywhere.
| Tool | Works across platforms | Install required | Size limit | Where files go |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LocalBeam | Any device with a browser | None - runs in the browser | No hard limit | Direct device-to-device, never touches a server |
| AirDrop | Apple devices only | Built into iOS/macOS | No hard limit | Direct device-to-device |
| LocalSend (app) | Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, Linux | App download required on every device | No hard limit | Direct device-to-device |
| Cloud upload (Drive, WeTransfer, email) | Any device with a browser | None, but requires an account for large files | Capped by provider (often 2-25GB free tier) | Files are uploaded and stored on a third-party server |