AirDrop for Windows & Linux: 5 Best Options in 2026

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 another option.

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

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.