All businesses require file sharing, and the easiest way to do this is with a file sharing app. Employees can share files and collaborate easily on multiple platforms at any time, saving time and streamlining workflows.
Your business needs to be able to transfer files and documents easily across platforms and devices. And with employees always on the move, there are far better ways to do so than with email attachments.
Fortunately, file sharing apps make this process much easier. They make it possible to store your important business files in the cloud so they’re always accessible to everyone on your team. This helps boost productivity and make workflows much simpler.
In this article, I’m going over the 8 best file-sharing apps for your business on the market so you can choose the best one for your business.
If you don’t have the time to read through our research, jump down to our quick comparison table.
Our Top Picks
-
Best all-in-one file sharing app
-
Good for collaborating on files
-
Good for creating files from scratch
Why trust us?
Our team of unbiased software reviewers follows strict editorial guidelines, and our methodology is clear and open to everyone.
See our complete methodology
33
Tools considered
22
Tools reviewed
9
Best tools
chosen
How I Chose the Best File Sharing Apps
With so many file sharing apps on the market, I had to narrow them down to make this list. These are the features I looked for:
Important core features
- Security and privacy: I made sure the app provides robust security measures to protect your sensitive business data. Features like end-to-end encryption, secure data storage, user authentication, and access controls are super important. The app should comply with industry-standard security certifications and regulations to ensure the highest level of data protection.
- Sufficient document storage: The app should have enough storage to store all the files you need to share with your team.
- Collaboration features: I assessed each app’s collaboration capabilities. I looked for features that enable real-time collaboration, such as simultaneous editing, comments, and version control. Ideally, the app should support integration with other collaboration tools your team already uses, like project management or communication platforms, to streamline workflows.
- Ease of use: I looked for file sharing apps that are user-friendly and intuitive. A clean interface with easy navigation and file organization is ideal, and it should offer features like drag-and-drop file uploads, file previews, and search functionality to enhance user experience and productivity.
- Accessibility and scalability: T app should support multiple platforms and devices, including desktop, web, and mobile. This ensures that employees can access files from anywhere, using their preferred devices. Additionally, I considered the scalability of the app—whether it can accommodate your business’s growing file storage and user needs without compromising performance.
- Integration capabilities: I evaluated whether the file sharing app integrates with other software and systems that your business relies on. Integration with productivity tools, content management systems, or customer relationship management platforms can enhance workflow efficiency and data synchronization.
- Compliance and governance: File sharing apps should comply with relevant regulations, such as GDPR, HIPAA, or SOC 2. I looked for features that enable you to maintain control over your data, such as audit logs, activity tracking, and data retention policies.
- Customer support and service: I considered the level of customer support provided by the file sharing app’s vendor. I also looked for documentation, tutorials, and a responsive support team that can assist you with any technical issues or questions that may arise.
9 Best File Sharing Apps For Businesses of 2022
-
Connecteam — Best all-in-one file sharing app
Connecteam is the best file sharing app on the market.
Why I chose Connecteam: Connecteam comes with all the features you need to organize and share files that easily reach your workforce. It has ample storage space, multiple communication channels, and is easy to use.
Let’s take a closer look at how Connecteam can help you manage company files and streamline your business:
Dedicated space for document and file sharing
Connecteam’s team documents feature is a dedicated, secure space for sharing important employee files. The app allows workers to upload work-related documents directly from their smartphones, making it perfect for frontline workers on the go. Also, files take up minimum storage on employees’ mobile devices since everything is stored in the cloud.
You can store and share all regulatory, formal, and personal files safely in one location and be sure employee records are always up to date. You can categorize everything however you like and everything is easily accessible. However, you can also restrict which files specific employees can see through admin settings.
A customizable knowledge base to keep employees informed
Take advantage of the company knowledge base to share unlimited files of any kind – documents, training manuals, forms, and even videos. Reduce time wasted looking for information by allowing employees to access important information from their phones.
All your company’s collected files will be stored safely so you can share them with your staff at any time. Once you update a file, it is immediately synced across the entire business, ensuring everybody’s working with the same information.
Streamlined communication between employees and employers
Connecteam’s online team chat makes it easy for employees to collaborate on files or to ask questions. It’s the easiest way for them to quickly get answers from colleagues, managers, or HR. But this feature isn’t just good for questions about file sharing: it’s the best way for employees to communicate about all work-related issues.
To communicate outside of the app, Connecteam also comes with a company employee directory that includes employee phone numbers and other vital contact information.
Ensured compliance with easily accessible documentation
With Connecteam, you can make sure your company adheres to compliance and labor laws. Keep all of your employee files uploaded in the cloud and access them whenever you need. This can include everything from employee hours, to important forms and files, to compliance and regulatory certificates. It is also incredibly easy to update documents as needed, ensuring you remain compliant with company and legal policies.
💡 Pro tip:If you’re waiting for an employee to submit an important compliance document, set an automated notification so you’re alerted as soon as they turn it in.
Expedited onboarding and training
In-person onboarding and training can be difficult to organize, expensive to host, and can go on for hours at a time. There are better ways to train new employees than this, especially if they work in the field.
Instead, take advantage of a file sharing app, like Connecteam, that allows you to upload all onboarding and training files and materials into an app. You can create your own training documents in a bite-size, digestible format so employees retain information better and don’t get bored.
You can also monitor employee progress and administer quizzes andemployee communication surveys along the way to make sure they remember important information.
📚 This may interest you: The 9 Best Employee Onboarding Apps of 2023Attach files to specific shifts to ensure employees have all necessary information
Because Connecteam is an integrated employee management app, you can attach files to specific shifts as you’re building employee schedules. This ensures that each worker has all the information they need to do their jobs correctly. Whether it be a specific digital form or checklist, security information, instructions on how to use a new piece of equipment, or how to complete a new procedure, this file sharing app makes it simple to share all necessary files to those who need them.
Besides acting as a file sharing app for your business, Connecteam is a complete and affordable employee management app that allows you to manage your workers on the go. Features include an employee time clock, employee scheduler, company news feed to make announcements, employee recognition tools, and much more.
🧠 Did you know?Connecteam’s paid plan starts at just $29 per month for up to 30 users, and small businesses with fewer than 10 users can access the app completely free.
Connecteam also offers a free for life plan – Try Connecteam here!
Key Features
Attach files to shifts, tasks, and updates
Share files via chat and employee schedule
File storage and search engine
Pros
Easily access all files
Features are easy to customize
Data takes up minimal storage space
Intuitive and user-friendly
Files are easy to share
All data is protected
Cons
Needs internet or wifi access to work
Pricing
Free-for-life plan availablePremium plans start at $29/month for 30 users
14-day free trial, no credit card required
Start your free trial -
Hightail — Good for collaborating on files
When it comes to the best file sharing for small businesses and large businesses alike, Hightail is an excellent choice because it makes it easy for managers to keep teams on track.
Why I chose Hightail: You can share files of any size, ask for feedback, and allow multiple users to edit. In addition to file sharing, admins can also assign and manage tasks, track project activity, and keep files secure with just a few clicks. With Hightail, employees can easily collaborate on documents and projects directly from the app.
Hightail is ideal for teams of any size and includes integration capabilities with software like Google Drive, Dropbox Business, and OneDrive.
Learn more about HightailKey Features
- Document sharing
- Creative collaboration
- Project management
- Apps and integration
Pros
- Easy to share documents of all sizes
- Protects all data
Cons
- Poor customer support
- Lacks customization
Pricing
Starts at $24/user/month Trial: Yes — 14-day Free Plan: Yes
-
KnowledgeOwl — Good for creating files from scratch
Available on
If you need a simple way to share files within your business, KnowledgeOwl may be a good option for you.
Why I chose KnowledgeOwl: Share files of any type, including PDFs and videos, and create customizable knowledge bases for your workforce with the built-in document editor. Use color and images to create attractive-looking files from scratch, or take advantage of one of many template options. Then, you can share all files directly with your team.
This file sharing app for business is perfect for companies that want to create documents from scratch within the app itself. It’s a customizable solution with a user-friendly interface and is available on mobile devices and desktop.
Learn more about KnowledgeOwlKey Features
- Collaboration tools
- Built-in document editor
- Document library
- Customizable templates
Pros
- Good customer support
- Functional and easy to use
Cons
- Slow loading times
- Difficult to organize documents
Pricing
Starts at $20/author/month Trial: Yes — 30-day Free Plan: No
-
ClickUp — Good for scheduling projects
Build a unified team with ClickUp’s project management software. Not only can you plan and schedule projects, but ClickUp acts as a customizable, easy-to-use file sharing app, too.
Why I chose ClickUp: This cloud-based software is one of the best file sharing apps for business because it’s completely customizable. ClickUp allows you to create and share files with all of your team members, set permissions for viewing, editing, and commenting, and update files whenever you need, directly in the app. We also love how you can color code and tag files for easy categorization and retrieve them at any time with ClickUp’s search feature.
Learn more about ClickUpKey Features
- Create and customize documents
- Subtasks and checklists
- Categorization
- Reporting dashboard
Pros
- Very easy to use
- Quick to customize
Cons
- Unattractive user interface
- Poor email notification process
Pricing
Starts at $7/member/month Trial: No Free Plan: Yes
-
Dropbox Business — Good for eSignatures
Dropbox Business helps simplify your team document and file sharing.
Why I chose Dropbox Business: With sharing features like eSignature, file tracking, and backup, you never have to worry about losing important files.
You can create, edit, and share all your cloud-store files directly in the app, whether they are saved on Google Drive, Sheets, or Slides. Depending on the plan you choose, you also can get access to real-time analytics and advanced file controls, and even track files of any size after you send them off.
And with Dropbox’s secure infrastructure, you can rest assured that all your business data is safe in this file sharing app.
Learn more about Dropbox BusinessKey Features
- File storage
- Customizable templates
- Export, import, and protect data
- Calendar management
Pros
- Organized and easy to use
- Perfect for collaboration
Cons
- User interface is confusing
- Limited filing options
Pricing
Team plans starts at $15/user/month Trial: Yes Free Plan: Yes
-
Box — Good for automating workflows
Box guarantees secure team collaboration and file management on any device, no matter if it’s a smartphone, tablet, or desktop. And with over 1,500 app integrations, your team will have no problem working with Box.
Why I chose Box: This cloud-based file sharing app makes it simple to create automated workflows through file sharing. You can assign tasks and projects to different employees and take advantage of Box’s workflow templates to speed up processes. It’s also incredibly simple to move files to Box, and upload times are particularly fast.
Learn more about BoxKey Features
- File collaboration
- E-signature feature
- Data protection
- Integration with multiple apps
Pros
- Easily transfer files
- Easy to use
Cons
- Potential syncing issues
- Expensive solution
Pricing
Starts at $20/user/month Trial: Yes — 14-day Free Plan: No
-
Google Drive — Goor for multiplatform syncing
Available on
- Web
- iOS
- Android
One of the best document sharing apps on the market, Google Drive offers a generous amount of free storage space and robust collaboration capabilities.
Why I chose Google Drive: If you already use Google Workspace in your business, then Google Drive is a good choice because it’s already included amongst its many features. Store, back up, edit and create files and folders, all while maintaining control over which employees have access to which documents.
If you share a file with someone you forgot to grant access to, the recipient can simply request access with a click. You’ll receive an email and can take care of it immediately.
In terms of security, this Google product lives up to its name as an incredibly secure platform that encrypts all of your file data. It’s also available as an Android app, iPhone app, or from your web browser.
Learn more about Google DriveKey Features
- File sharing and storage
- Alerts and notifications
- Automatic backup
- File scanning
Pros
- Extremely simple to use
- Great collaboration tools
Cons
- Copying and moving larger files can be difficult
- Poor customer support
Pricing
Free for the first 15GB Trial: No Free Plan: Yes
-
OneDrive — Good for Microsoft Office users
Available on
- Web
- iOS
- Android
You can think of OneDrive as Google Drive’s direct competitor.
Why I chose OneDrive: OneDrive is Microsoft’s file sharing solution in which you can directly create, share, and store files saved in a Microsoft Office file format, like Word, Excel, or PowerPoint. You can collaborate directly in docs, and get eSignatures all in one place.
This fast and reliable cloud-storage solution has the added bonus of integrating with all other Microsoft apps, including Office, OneNote, and Skype, so you don’t need to leave OneDrive to access them.
Learn more about OneDriveKey Features
- File storage and sharing
- Cross-device syncing
- Drag and drop
- Drag and drop
Pros
- Affordable solution
- Easy to upload files
Cons
- Confusing user interface
- Lacks end-to-end encryption
Pricing
Starts at $5/user/month Trial: Yes — 30-day Free Plan: Yes
-
Send Anywhere — Good free file sharing
Available on
- Web
- iOS
- Android
- Windows
- Mac
Send Anywhere is a great option if you are looking for a basic document sharing solution. It’s one of the best free file sharing apps out there and doesn’t even require you to make an account.
Why I chose Send Anywhere: While it doesn’t come with any many capabilities as some other options on our list, it’s the best way to transfer large files without distorting quality, making it deal for sharing photos and videos. It’s also the only option on our list that is not cloud-based and doesn’t act as a file storage app too, but instead requires you to download files to your mobile device or desktop before editing.
Learn more about Send Anywhere
However, in terms of security, SendAnywhere does require a 6-digit security key to ensure secure file sharing as well as 256-bit encryption.Key Features
- Free 10GB monthly download limit
- Doesn’t distort file quality
- 256-bit encryption
Pros
- Free to use
- Easy to use
Cons
- Not file storage
- Lots of ads
Pricing
Contact vendor for price Trial: No Free Plan: Yes
Compare the Best File Sharing Apps For Businesss
| Topic |
Start for free
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reviews |
  |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Pricing |
Starts at just $29/month for the first 30 users
|
Starts at $24/user/month
|
Starts at $20/author/month
|
Starts at $7/member/month
|
Team plans starts at $15/user/month
|
Starts at $20/user/month
|
Free for the first 15GB
|
Starts at $5/user/month
|
Contact vendor for price
|
| Free Trial |
yes
14-day
|
yes
14-day
|
yes
30-day
|
no
|
yes
|
yes
14-day
|
no
|
yes
30-day
|
no
|
| Free Plan |
yes
Free Up to 10 users
|
yes
|
no
|
yes
|
yes
|
no
|
yes
|
yes
|
yes
|
| Use cases |
Best all-in-one file sharing app
|
Good for collaborating on files
|
Good for creating files from scratch
|
Good for scheduling projects
|
Good for eSignatures
|
Good for automating workflows
|
Goor for multiplatform syncing
|
Good for Microsoft Office users
|
Good free file sharing
|
| Available on |
Web, iOS, Android
|
Web, iOS, Android
|
Web, iOS, Android, Windows, Mac
|
What is a File Sharing App?
File sharing apps allow users to send and receive files into the cloud. Apps are usually compatible with all file types including images, PDFs, and video files, making them easy to use and customizable based on your needs.
The best file sharing apps for business make it possible for all workers to easily access company documents at any time and make it easier for team members to collaborate on files together. All files are securely stored on the cloud and can be accessed from anywhere with the right permissions.
How Do File Sharing Apps Work?
File sharing apps enable the transfer of files between devices over the internet. Users register and select the files they want to share. The files are then uploaded to the app’s servers, where they are stored securely.
The app generates unique links for each file or folder, which users can share with others via email, messaging apps, or social media. Recipients can click on the links to download the files to their devices.
Security measures like encryption protect the files during transfer and storage, and some apps offer additional features like access permissions and password protection.
File sharing apps may also provide synchronization, tracking, and monitoring features to enhance user experience and security.
Benefits of File Sharing Apps
File sharing apps offer several benefits for businesses. Here are six main advantages:
Collaboration and teamwork: File sharing apps enable seamless collaboration among team members. Multiple users can access and edit shared files simultaneously, promoting real-time collaboration, feedback, and teamwork. This enhances productivity and efficiency in completing projects and tasks.
Easy file accessibility: With file sharing apps, employees can access files from anywhere, at any time, as long as they have an internet connection. This flexibility allows remote and distributed teams to work together effectively, ensuring everyone has access to the most up-to-date files, fostering productivity and eliminating delays.
Improved file organization and version control: File sharing apps often include features for organizing files into folders and subfolders, making it easy to categorize and find relevant documents. Additionally, version control features track changes made to files, allowing users to revert to previous versions if needed, avoiding confusion and ensuring accuracy.
Enhanced security and data protection: Many file sharing apps employ robust security measures to protect sensitive business data. These measures can include encryption, secure data centers, access controls, and user authentication. By using secure file sharing apps, businesses can reduce the risk of data breaches and ensure the confidentiality of their information.
Efficient file sharing with external parties: File sharing apps streamline the process of sharing files with external parties such as clients, vendors, or partners. Instead of relying on email attachments or physical media, files can be securely shared through links, allowing for easy access, tracking, and monitoring. This simplifies collaboration with external stakeholders and reduces administrative overhead.
Cost savings and scalability: Using file sharing apps eliminates the need for physical storage devices, such as servers or external hard drives, reducing infrastructure costs. Additionally, cloud-based file sharing apps typically offer flexible pricing models based on storage and user requirements, allowing businesses to scale up or down as needed without significant upfront investments.
How Much Do File Document Sharing Apps Cost?
File sharing apps range in price depending on their capabilities and which plan you choose. While there aren’t many free file-sharing apps available for businesses, many apps offer free trials, which are worth taking advantage of. The cost is important, but it’s more important to get the features needed to successfully run your business.
Luckily there are affordable options like Connecteam. Connecteam has an entirely free file-sharing app for up to 10 users. If your business is bigger, pricing starts at just $29 per month for up to 30 users. It has all the features needed to efficiently run your business, including file-sharing, employee training, knowledge bases, and more.
FAQs
What are the main functions of a document sharing app?
All file sharing apps work slightly differently and have different features. However, they all allow users to upload files of all sizes to the cloud, manage files and documents directly in the app, and share files with anyone in your organization.
Are all file-sharing apps customizable?
The best file-sharing apps on the market include fully customizable features. Unfortunately, not all cloud-based apps have these capabilities. With that said, some apps like Connecteam are extremely customizable.
Do I need a file-sharing app for my business?
Whether you are starting your own business or an established business owner, you will need to share information with your employees regularly. File-sharing apps save you time and effort by giving your employees easy access to everything they need to complete their jobs successfully.
The Bottom Line On The Best File Sharing Apps
For seamless and secure file sharing in a business setting, look no further than Connecteam.
With its intuitive interface, robust features, and top-notch security measures, Connecteam emerges as the leading file sharing app for businesses.
Whether you’re collaborating on projects, sharing important documents, or streamlining communication within your team, Connecteam provides the tools you need to boost productivity and efficiency.
Don’t settle for subpar solutions—choose Connecteam and experience hassle-free file sharing that empowers your business to thrive.