FileShot vs FileConvoy: Zero-Knowledge vs Simple File Transfer
— Written by Brendan, Founder of FileShot.io
Quick Comparison
| Feature | FileConvoy | FileShot |
|---|---|---|
| Free Upload Limit | 4 GB per file | 10 GB |
| Registration | None required | Optional |
| Zero-Knowledge Encryption | No | Yes |
| Encryption | Server-side | AES-256-GCM client-side |
| File Expiration | Varies by activity | 1 day to unlimited |
| Download Tracking | Yes | Basic count only, privacy-first |
| Paid Plans | None | $2/mo Lite |
FileConvoy: Simple Email-Free Transfer
FileConvoy is a straightforward file transfer service with no registration required. It allows uploads up to 4 GB per file without creating an account. Files are stored with server-side encryption, meaning FileConvoy retains the ability to access uploaded content. The service tracks downloads and uses an activity-based expiration model where file retention varies based on usage patterns.
FileConvoy offers no paid plans or premium features. It's a free service with the 4 GB file size limit as the primary constraint. There's no zero-knowledge encryption or client-side security model. FileConvoy positions itself as a simple alternative to email attachments for users who need basic file transfer without complexity.
FileShot: Zero-Knowledge Architecture
FileShot uses zero-knowledge encryption. Files are encrypted with AES-256-GCM in your browser before upload. The decryption key lives only in the URL fragment and never touches the server. FileShot cannot access your filesâ€â€ÂÂthe architecture guarantees this by design. Even if FileShot's infrastructure is compromised or legally compelled, encrypted files remain unreadable without the client-side key.
FileShot offers 10 GB per file and 50 GB total storage on the free tier, with unlimited storage on paid plans. Registration is optionalâ€â€ÂÂanonymous uploads work the same as authenticated ones. File expiration is user-controlled: choose between 1 day and unlimited. Download tracking is minimal: FileShot logs a basic count but doesn't track detailed analytics, IP addresses, or user behavior.
Encryption Model Comparison
FileConvoy uses server-side encryption, which means the service holds the decryption keys. This is the same model used by most mainstream cloud storage providers: data is encrypted at rest, but the provider can decrypt it. From a privacy standpoint, this means you're trusting FileConvoy not to access your files and trusting that their infrastructure won't be breached.
FileShot's zero-knowledge model eliminates this trust requirement. Because decryption keys never leave your browser, FileShot cannot access your data under any circumstances. There's no key management infrastructure to compromise, no legal risk of third-party access, and no possibility of insider threats. The encryption architecture itself enforces privacy.
Feature Set: Simplicity vs. Versatility
FileConvoy focuses on doing one thing: simple file transfer. No account system, no additional tools, no premium tiers. The experience is minimal and straightforward. This works well for users who need a quick, no-friction way to send files without email attachments.
FileShot includes built-in privacy tools: PDF editor, file converter, image compressor, metadata scrubber, virus scanner, and more. All tools run client-side for privacy. FileShot also offers a desktop app, browser extension, P2P transfer via WebRTC, and encrypted chat. For users who value privacy and need more than just basic file transfer, FileShot delivers a comprehensive platform.
Sustainability: Free Forever vs. Freemium
FileConvoy has no paid plans. It's entirely free with no monetization strategy visible to users. This raises long-term sustainability questions: how does FileConvoy cover bandwidth and storage costs for 4 GB uploads at scale? Ad-supported models often compromise privacy, but FileConvoy's funding model isn't publicly documented.
FileShot uses a transparent freemium model. The free tier is fully functional with no limits on storage or file size. Lite ($2/month) removes ads and unlocks unlimited expiry. Pro ($5/month) adds 100 GB per-file uploads and advanced features. Creator ($12/month) removes all limits. This model funds development and infrastructure without selling user data or compromising privacy.
Privacy Tracking and Analytics
FileConvoy tracks downloads. The extent of this tracking isn't publicly detailed, but typical download analytics include IP addresses, timestamps, geographic location, and user agents. For privacy-conscious users, this data collection presents a tradeoff: convenience in exchange for visibility into who accessed your files.
FileShot logs only a basic download count. No IP addresses, no user agents, no geographic tracking. This privacy-first approach means you get minimal visibility into download activity, but your recipients' privacy is preserved. FileShot's architecture prioritizes anonymity over detailed analytics.
Who Should Choose FileShot?
If you need zero-knowledge encryption, FileShot is the only option on this comparison. If you want generous limits (10 GB per file free, unlimited storage on paid plans) with no registration, FileShot delivers that on the free tier. If you need built-in tools like PDF editing, file conversion, or metadata scrubbing without uploading to third-party sites, FileShot has them client-side. If you value a sustainable business model that doesn't rely on harvesting user data, FileShot's freemium structure is transparent.
FileConvoy works for users who need simple, anonymous file transfer with no account friction and are comfortable with server-side encryption and 4 GB file limits. For privacy, versatility, and long-term reliability, FileShot is the better choice.
For secure, private file sharing with zero-knowledge encryption, try FileShot free or explore our plans.