FileShot vs Smash: Zero-Knowledge Encryption vs No-Limit Transfers
— Written by Brendan, Founder of FileShot.io
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Smash | FileShot |
|---|---|---|
| Zero-Knowledge Encryption | No | Yes (AES-256-GCM, client-side) |
| Free File Size Limit | 2 GB per transfer | 10 GB |
| Free Link Expiry | 14 days | 1 day to unlimited |
| Account Required | No | No |
| Password Protection | Premium only | Free (all plans) |
| Custom Branding | Yes (Premium, $10/mo) | Creator plan ($12/mo) |
| Download Page Customization | Custom backgrounds, colors, logo | Custom links (Creator plan) |
| Pricing | Free, Premium $10/mo | Free, Lite $2/mo, Pro $5/mo |
Design-Forward Transfers vs. Privacy-First Sharing
Smash is a French file sharing service known for its design-focused approach. Free transfers have no file size limit (previously — now capped at 2 GB on free tier), and the download experience is polished with customizable backgrounds and branding. Smash targets creative professionals who want a branded delivery experience for client files.
FileShot's focus is privacy, not presentation. Every file is encrypted with AES-256-GCM in your browser before upload. The decryption key lives only in the URL fragment. The download page is functional, not customizable — because the priority is ensuring nobody except the intended recipient can access the file.
Encryption Differences
Smash uses TLS for in-transit encryption and server-side encryption at rest. Smash manages the encryption keys, which means Smash can access file contents and may do so for compliance or legal purposes. There is no zero-knowledge option.
FileShot's zero-knowledge architecture ensures the server stores only encrypted blobs. The key never leaves the URL fragment. Even Smash's customization of the download experience requires that the service can read the file metadata — FileShot's server cannot read any file metadata or content.
Free Tier Comparison
Smash's free tier allows 2 GB per transfer with a 14-day link life. No password protection, no custom branding. FileShot's free tier supports up to 10 GB per file, 1-90 day link life, password protection, and zero-knowledge encryption — all at no cost.
For zero-knowledge encrypted file sharing, try FileShot or compare plans.