copyparty vs localsend
File sharing tools compared: copyparty and localsend
copyparty runs a portable server for browsing and transferring files through a browser and network protocols. localsend is an app for direct file and message transfers between nearby devices on the same local network, without internet access or third-party servers.
copyparty: Share and Upload Files from a Portable Server
Copyparty is a portable file server for browsing, sharing, and transferring files through a web browser or network protocols. It suits people who want a flexible self-hosted file hub without a large dependency stack.
localsend: Share Files Between Nearby Devices
LocalSend transfers files and messages between nearby devices on the same local network, without internet access or third-party servers. It suits people who need a cross-platform alternative to cloud-based sharing or platform-specific transfer tools.
| copyparty | localsend | |
|---|---|---|
| Language | Python | Dart |
| License | MIT | Apache-2.0 |
| Stars | 46.9k | 93.3k |
| Forks | 1.9k | 5.2k |
| Last analyzed | Oct 3, 2026 | Oct 3, 2026 |
Key differences
- copyparty provides an ongoing or temporary file hub with configurable accounts and folder permissions; localsend focuses on sending files and messages between nearby devices.
- copyparty supports browser access and protocols including WebDAV, SFTP, FTP(S), TFTP, and SMB/CIFS; localsend transfers over HTTPS between devices on a local network.
- copyparty is written in Python and licensed under MIT; localsend is written in Dart and licensed under Apache-2.0.
- copyparty can expose selected folders to remote users when configured for that purpose; localsend requires devices to communicate on the same local network and does not provide internet-based transfers.
- copyparty offers server-side browsing, indexing, search, and media tools; localsend provides desktop and mobile apps, plus a command-line client for sending files and directories.
- localsend has more listed stars and forks than copyparty: 93.3k stars and 5.2k forks compared with 46.9k stars and 1.9k forks.
Choose copyparty if you…
- need a self-hosted file hub with browser access and multiple network protocols.
- want configurable accounts, folder permissions, or write-only file drop folders.
- need file browsing, search, media tools, or resumable uploads in one server.
Choose localsend if you…
- want to transfer files or messages between nearby devices without internet access or third-party servers.
- need to share between desktop and mobile platforms on the same local network.
- want to send files or directories from the command line to a nearby device.
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This comparison is generated with AI from the OSRepos analyses of both projects. Always check each project's repository and documentation before choosing.