5 Best Wi-Fi File Transfer Apps to Easily Share Files between Ubuntu and Android

Are you tired of the tedious process of using Google Photos or Google Drive to transfer files between your Android device and Ubuntu? Or perhaps you've tried using WhatsApp web but found it to be time-consuming. If you frequently need to transfer files between these two platforms, having a permanent mechanism in place can save you a lot of time and effort.

In this article, we will explore the best Wi-Fi file transfer apps that allow seamless sharing of files between Ubuntu and Android. These apps are not only free but also offer unlimited file transfer without any limitations or annoying ads.

Snapdrop: The Easiest Wi-Fi File Sharing App

Snapdrop is probably the easiest Wi-Fi file sharing app on this list. It works on any device with a web browser. Simply open the Snapdrop web app on both your Ubuntu and Android devices, and you can easily drag and drop files to share them. Snapdrop operates within a Wi-Fi network and works on a peer-to-peer architecture, ensuring fast and private file transfers.

What's good?

• Peer-to-peer architecture for faster file transfers
• Data is not routed via a server to ensure privacy

What's not?

• Only works within the same Wi-Fi network
• Requires internet access to use the web app

Visit Snapdrop for Ubuntu

FileZilla: The Best FTP App for Android

For those who prefer a more traditional approach, FileZilla allows you to transfer files via FTP (File Transfer Protocol) between your Ubuntu and Android devices. You'll need an FTP client app on your Android and an FTP server app for Ubuntu. FileZilla is widely regarded as the best FTP app for Android.

Once you start the FTP server on your mobile device, you can access your Android files through the Ubuntu terminal. However, it's important to note that FTP is unencrypted and can be risky to use on public Wi-Fi. If you opt for more secure transfers using SFTP (Secure FTP), you may experience slower file transfer speeds compared to other apps like Snapdrop.

Resilio Sync: Peer-to-Peer File Sending App

Formerly known as BitTorrent Sync, Resilio Sync is another peer-to-peer file sharing app. It uses a proprietary peer-to-peer algorithm and works as a command-line tool. After installing Resilio Sync, you can link your Android device with your Ubuntu laptop and even sync folders between the two.

What's good?

• Sync entire folders between devices
• Secure transfer between certified devices
• Option to encrypt and share folders

What's not?

• Setting up devices can be tedious

Download Resilio Sync for Linux | Resilio Sync for Android

Sweech: Python-based CLI Tool for File Transfer

Sweech is a python-based open-source command-line tool for transferring files via Wi-Fi. It uses HTTP and functions similar to FTP. After installing the Sweech Android app and adding the IP address of your Android device to the configuration file on your Ubuntu machine, you can easily push and pull files between the two platforms using simple commands.

What's good?

• Command-line based on HTTP
• FTP-style commands for file transfer

What's not?

• Works with static IP addresses
• No option to switch to HTTPS

Download Sweech for Ubuntu

GSConnect: The All-in-One Solution

GSConnect is a comprehensive app that bridges the gap between your Android device and Ubuntu. File sharing is just one of its many features. With GSConnect, you can reply to notifications, make calls, share the Android clipboard, and more directly from your Ubuntu machine. GSConnect is a GNOME extension built over KDEConnect, so you'll need to install the KDEConnect app on your Android device.

What's good?

• Can send multiple files and folders
• Option to access Android file system under Nautilus
• Additional options for notifications, call alerts, clipboard sharing, etc.

What's not?

• Requires some setup for new devices
• SFTP is slower than peer-to-peer for large files

Download GSConnect for Ubuntu

These are the best Wi-Fi file transfer apps for sharing files between Ubuntu and Android. For a quick and one-off file transfer, Snapdrop is the ideal option. If you prefer a more traditional approach, FileZilla is the go-to FTP app. Sweech offers a command-line experience, while Resilio Sync provides folder synchronization capabilities. Finally, if you want a comprehensive solution, GSConnect is the perfect choice.

So, whether you're a Ubuntu user looking to transfer files to your Android device or vice versa, these apps will make the process seamless and efficient. Give them a try and enjoy hassle-free file sharing!