FileShot vs Files.fm: Zero-Knowledge vs Crypto File Hosting
— Written by Brendan, Founder of FileShot.io
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Files.fm | FileShot |
|---|---|---|
| Payment Model | Crypto tokens (FFM token) | Traditional (USD/EUR) |
| Free Storage | 5 GB | 50 GB (10 GB per file) |
| Free Upload Limit | 1 GB per file | 10 GB |
| Zero-Knowledge Encryption | Optional (user-managed) | Yes (always on) |
| Encryption | Optional AES-256 client-side | AES-256-GCM client-side (always) |
| Payment Method | FFM tokens, crypto | Credit card, PayPal |
| File Expiration | Lifetime (with token staking) | 1 day to unlimited |
| Desktop App | No | Yes |
Two Different Payment Models
Files.fm is a blockchain-based file hosting service that operates on cryptocurrency payments. To use Files.fm, you need to acquire and stake FFM tokens. The free tier offers 5 GB storage with 1 GB upload limits, but to unlock more storage or lifetime file retention, you must stake FFM tokens in the platform. Encryption is optional and user-managed, meaning users must actively enable client-side encryption if they want it.
FileShot operates on a traditional payment model with credit cards and PayPal. No cryptocurrency required, no token staking, no blockchain complexity. The free tier offers generous limits (10 GB per file free, unlimited storage on paid plans) with no blockchain requirements. Files are always encrypted with AES-256-GCM before upload, with zero-knowledge architecture as the default for every user.
Encryption: Optional vs. Always On
Files.fm offers optional client-side AES-256 encryption. Users must choose to enable this feature when uploading files. If encryption is not enabled, files are stored unencrypted on Files.fm's servers. Files.fm can access unencrypted files, and encrypted files are only as secure as the user's key management practices.
FileShot enforces zero-knowledge encryption by default for every upload. Files are encrypted with AES-256-GCM in the browser before they reach the server. The decryption key lives only in the URL fragment and never touches FileShot's servers. There is no opt-in, no configuration step, no way to accidentally upload an unencrypted file. Privacy is guaranteed by design, not by user choice.
Pricing and Accessibility
Files.fm's free plan provides 5 GB storage and 1 GB per file upload limit. To exceed these limits or enable lifetime file retention, users must purchase and stake FFM tokens. This requires creating a crypto wallet, buying tokens on an exchange, transferring them to Files.fm, and locking them in a staking contract. All payments are made in cryptocurrency.
FileShot's free plan offers generous limits (10 GB per file free, unlimited on paid) with no crypto requirements. Lite is $2/month for unlimited expiry and ad-free experience. Pro is $5/month for advanced features including 100 GB per file. Creator is $12/month with custom branding and no limits. Payment is via credit card or PayPal. No blockchain knowledge required.
Use Case Alignment
Files.fm is for users who are comfortable with cryptocurrency, blockchain technology, and token staking. It appeals to users who want to leverage blockchain infrastructure for file storage and who are willing to manage crypto wallets and token holdings as part of the file hosting experience.
FileShot is for users who want secure file sharing without the complexity of cryptocurrency. If you need to share files with clients, colleagues, or collaborators who don't use crypto, FileShot works for everyone. If you want guaranteed encryption without opt-in steps, FileShot enforces that by default. If you want to pay for a service the same way you pay for Netflix or Spotify, FileShot supports traditional payment methods.
Who Should Choose FileShot?
If you want zero-knowledge encryption as a default feature rather than an optional add-on, FileShot delivers that. If you prefer paying with a credit card instead of managing crypto tokens, FileShot supports traditional payment methods. If you need generous file limits (10 GB per file, 50 GB total) on the free plan without blockchain complexity, FileShot is built for you. If you want a desktop app, browser extension, and integrated tools like PDF editing and file compression, FileShot provides that ecosystem.
For secure, private file sharing with zero-knowledge encryption and no crypto required, try FileShot free or explore our plans.