Ferry vs Quick Share
Ferry vs Quick Share: sending files between any two devices
Checked October 2026
The short answer
Use Quick Share between Android phones, or an Android phone and a Windows PC with the app, when the devices are close together. Use Ferry when one device is a Mac, an iPhone or a Linux computer, when the devices are far apart, or when you cannot install anything.
Quick Share is Google's way to send files to nearby devices. It is built in on Android and has a Windows app.
In February 2026 Google began making Quick Share work with AirDrop, starting with the Pixel 10 series. Google has said it will reach more Android phones during 2026. Until it reaches the devices you own, a browser tool is the dependable option across every system.
Side by side
| Feature | Ferry | Quick Share |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free to send and receive. Optional accounts have a free plan, and paid plans from $4 a month | Free |
| Install | Nothing. Runs in the browser | Built in on Android. An app on Windows |
| Works on | Any current browser on any system, plus a command line tool | Android and Windows, plus AirDrop on supported Pixel phones |
| Distance | Anywhere with internet, or the same Wi-Fi offline | Nearby devices |
| Size limit | No cap | No stated cap |
| Where files go | Directly between the two devices, never stored. A held send from an account is stored sealed until it expires | Directly between the two devices |
| Several receivers | Up to 16 devices in one transfer | Depends on the device |
Choose Ferry when
- One device is a Mac, an iPhone or a Linux computer that Quick Share does not reach.
- The devices are in different rooms or countries.
- You cannot install an app on the other device.
Choose Quick Share when
- Both devices are Android phones next to each other.
- You want to share from the share sheet inside an app.
- You are sending between Android and a Windows PC that already has the app.
Devices
Quick Share depends on the devices you own supporting it. Ferry needs a current browser and nothing else, so it works the same from any pair of devices.
Where Quick Share is the better tool
Between nearby Android devices, Quick Share is built in and fast. It needs no code and no browser tab.
Common questions
Does Quick Share work with iPhone?
Google has started adding AirDrop support to Quick Share, beginning with the Pixel 10 series in 2026, and says more Android phones will follow. Support varies by device, so check yours.
How do I send files between Android and iPhone with no app?
Open Ferry in the browser on both phones, scan the QR code, and send. Nothing is installed.
Does Ferry work far away, unlike Quick Share?
Yes. Ferry connects over the internet, so the other device can be anywhere.
Sources
Details about Quick Share were checked in October 2026 and can change. Quick Share is a trademark of its owner, and Ferry is not affiliated with it.
Try it with the file you have now.
Open Ferry on both devices and connect them with a QR code or six digits. Direct sends need no account.