FileShot vs Filemail: Zero-Knowledge Encryption vs Large File Delivery
— Written by Brendan, Founder of FileShot.io
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Filemail | FileShot |
|---|---|---|
| Zero-Knowledge Encryption | No | Yes (AES-256-GCM, client-side) |
| Free File Size Limit | 5 GB per transfer | 10 GB |
| Free Link Expiry | 7 days | 1 day to unlimited |
| Account Required | No (for free tier) | No |
| Password Protection | Pro plan only ($10/mo) | Free (all plans) |
| Desktop App | Yes (Win, Mac, Linux) | Yes (Win, Mac, Linux) |
| Transfer Notifications | Yes (email to recipient) | No (share the link yourself) |
| Pricing | Free, Pro $10/mo, Business $15/mo | Free, Lite $2/mo, Pro $5/mo |
Large File Delivery vs. Encrypted Sharing
Filemail is built for sending large files, especially to recipients via email-style notifications. Upload a file, enter the recipient's email, and Filemail delivers download links. The free tier allows up to 5 GB per transfer with a 7-day link life. The Pro tier bumps that to unlimited file size with 30-day link life. It's simple and works well for its use case.
FileShot's focus is different: privacy through zero-knowledge encryption. Every file is encrypted with AES-256-GCM in your browser before upload, and the decryption key lives only in the URL fragment. FileShot doesn't email recipients — you share the link however you want.
Encryption Differences
Filemail encrypts files in transit via TLS and at rest on their servers, but Filemail manages the encryption keys. This means Filemail can access your files, and files can be produced in response to legal requests. Their privacy policy confirms they may access content for compliance purposes.
FileShot's zero-knowledge architecture means the server never sees the plaintext or the encryption key. Even under a court order, FileShot cannot produce readable file contents.
Pricing and Value
Filemail's Pro plan at $10/mo provides unlimited file size and password protection. FileShot provides 10 GB per file on the free plan, with password protection also free. The $2/mo Lite plan adds ad-free usage and unlimited link expiry. The $5/mo Pro adds 100 GB per file, inbox, and verified sender badge.
For zero-knowledge encrypted file sharing, try FileShot or compare plans.