Ferry vs Smash
Ferry vs Smash: large file transfer with and without a queue
Checked October 2026
The short answer
Use Smash to leave a large file for someone to download later, if you do not mind a queue on the free plan. Use Ferry when you would rather send directly and now: there is no queue, no storage and no cap on a direct send.
Smash advertises transfers with no size limit and no account. On its free plan, transfers larger than 2 GB wait in a queue before they go, and files stay available for 1 to 7 days.
Ferry has no queue because it has no server in the middle of a direct send. The cost is that both devices need to be open together, unless you use a held send from an account.
Side by side
| Feature | Ferry | Smash |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free to send and receive. Optional accounts have a free plan, and paid plans from $4 a month | Free tier. Paid plans for larger transfers and longer storage |
| Account | Not needed to send or receive. Optional, for held files and a history | Not needed on the free plan |
| Size limit | No cap. Limited by free space on the receiving device | Listed as unlimited on the free plan, with a queue over 2 GB |
| Link lifetime | 24 hours for a direct send, up to 7 days for a held send | 1 to 7 days on the free plan |
| Where files go | Directly between the two devices, never stored. A held send from an account is stored sealed until it expires | Uploaded to Smash and stored there |
| Timing | Direct sends need both devices open. A held send lets the other person download later | Recipient can download later |
| No internet | Yes, on the same Wi-Fi or hotspot | No |
Choose Ferry when
- You want the file to start moving at once, with no waiting list.
- You do not want a copy of the file stored on a server.
- The other person is ready to receive.
Choose Smash when
- The recipient will download later and you have no Ferry account.
- You are sending to many people who open the link at different times.
- You can wait for a queued transfer to start.
The queue
Smash's own comparison table notes that free transfers over 2 GB go into a waiting queue. It does not state how long the wait lasts.
A Ferry direct send starts as soon as the two devices connect, whatever the size.
Paid plans
Smash Pro raises the limit to 250 GB per transfer and keeps files for up to 30 days. Smash lists different Pro prices in different places on its site, so check the current price before you decide.
Common questions
Does Smash have a file size limit?
Smash lists transfers as unlimited on its free plan, but transfers larger than 2 GB wait in a queue. Paid plans raise the speed and storage time.
Is there a Smash alternative with no queue?
Ferry. A direct send starts as soon as both devices connect and has no size cap.
How long does Smash keep files on the free plan?
Smash states that files stay available for 1 to 7 days, depending on your settings.
Sources
Details about Smash were checked in October 2026 and can change. Smash 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.