WeTransfer Alternative: 5 Reasons to Switch
WeTransfer is popular, but not always the best choice. Discover the pros and cons of the alternatives.
WeTransfer: the standard?
WeTransfer has become the name in file sharing. "I'll just WeTransfer it" has almost become a verb. But is it also the best option? Let's take a critical look.
WeTransfer free plan: Max 2GB, valid for 7 days, no encryption, ads
Reason 1: A higher limit
WeTransfer's free limit of 2GB is tight. A short 4K video is already bigger than that. With share2file.com you can send up to 3GB for free, and up to 20GB with a one-off payment.
Reason 2: End-to-end encryption
This is the most important reason. WeTransfer does not encrypt your files end-to-end. That means WeTransfer (and potentially hackers) can see your files.
With end-to-end encryption your file is encrypted in your browser, before it is uploaded. The key only exists in the link you share. Not even the server can open your file.
Sensitive documents? Always choose a service with E2E encryption.
Reason 3: No ads
WeTransfer's free version shows large ads. Your recipients first see a full-screen advertisement before they can download. Not very professional when you share business documents.
Reason 4: Privacy (GDPR)
WeTransfer is a Dutch company, but stores data with American cloud providers. For strictly confidential documents this can be a problem under the GDPR.
When choosing an alternative, check where the servers are located and which privacy laws apply.
Reason 5: Flexible storage period
WeTransfer free: 7 days. Full stop. You cannot choose shorter (safer) or longer (more convenient).
Alternatives often let you choose: 24 hours for sensitive files, or 30 days for projects that people need to access later.
Comparison table
| Feature | WeTransfer | share2file.com |
|---|---|---|
| Free limit | 2GB | 3GB |
| Max limit | 200GB (paid) | 20GB |
| E2E encryption | No | Yes |
| Ads | Yes (free) | No |
| Account needed | No | No |
| Choose storage period | No (fixed 7 days) | Yes (1-30 days) |
Update March 2026: WeTransfer raises prices
In early 2026 WeTransfer lowered its free limit and raised the price of WeTransfer Pro to €15 per month. For occasional use that is needlessly expensive. A one-off payment of €2–4 per large upload makes a lot more sense.
WeTransfer also recently changed its terms of service — uploaded files may be used for "improving the service". For confidential documents that is an extra reason to switch to a service with real E2E encryption.
Conclusion
WeTransfer is a fine option for small, non-sensitive files. But if you value privacy, want to send larger files, or do not want to show ads to your recipients, there are better alternatives.