The best open source alternative to Apple AirDrop is LocalSend. If that doesn't suit you, we've compiled a ranked list of other open source Apple AirDrop alternatives to help you find a suitable replacement. Other interesting open source alternatives to Apple AirDrop are: PairDrop and Palmr.
Apple AirDrop alternatives are mainly Cloud File Sync & Share Tools. Browse these if you want a narrower list of alternatives or looking for a specific functionality of Apple AirDrop.
Free, open-source file sharing tool for nearby devices. Cross-platform support with end-to-end encryption, no registration required, automatic device discovery.

LocalSend makes file sharing between nearby devices incredibly simple and secure. This free, open-source tool works across all major platforms including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, ensuring you can share files regardless of what devices you and your recipients are using.
What sets LocalSend apart is its decentralized approach - no central servers are involved, making transfers completely peer-to-peer. Your files go directly from your device to the recipient's device with end-to-end encryption protecting your data throughout the process.
The user experience is refreshingly straightforward: no registration required, automatic device discovery, and a clean interface that gets out of your way. Simply open the app, select your files, choose the nearby device, and transfer begins instantly.
Key benefits include:
Perfect for sharing photos, documents, videos, or any files between your devices or with colleagues and friends nearby.
Looking for open source alternatives to other popular services? Check out other posts in the alternatives series and openalternative.co, a directory of open source software with filters for tags and alternatives for easy browsing and discovery.
Share files instantly between devices using peer-to-peer technology. No registration, installation, or configuration required. Works cross-platform.

PairDrop makes file sharing between devices incredibly simple and secure. Using peer-to-peer technology, you can instantly transfer images, videos, PDFs, and links to nearby devices without any setup or account creation.
Key Features:
Simply open PairDrop in your browser on multiple devices, and they'll automatically discover each other when connected to the same network. The intuitive interface makes sharing as easy as drag-and-drop, while the peer-to-peer architecture ensures your files never touch external servers, keeping your data completely private and secure.
Self-hosted file sharing platform with encryption, S3 storage, REST API, and lightning-fast uploads. Deploy in minutes with full data control.

Palmr is a modern, self-hosted file sharing platform designed for speed, security, and complete data ownership. Built with performance in mind, it offers lightning-fast upload and download speeds through optimized architecture.
Key advantages include:
Perfect for organizations and individuals who need secure file sharing without compromising on privacy. The platform combines the convenience of cloud sharing with the security of self-hosting, giving you complete control over your data while maintaining professional-grade performance and reliability.