WeTransfer Free: The Complete Overview
WeTransfer's free plan is genuinely useful for basic file sharing, but it comes with important limitations. Here's everything you need to know about what's included and what's not.
What's Included in WeTransfer Free
File Transfers
Send files up to 3GB total per transfer with no account required
Email Notifications
Recipients get email notifications with download links automatically
Web Interface
Easy-to-use drag-and-drop interface accessible from any browser
Mobile Access
Works on mobile devices and tablets through web browser
3-Day Storage
Files are available for download for only 3 days before automatic deletion
Basic Messaging
Include a simple text message with your file transfer
WeTransfer Free Limitations
Important Restrictions to Know
- 3GB Maximum: Total file size per transfer cannot exceed 3GB
- 10 Transfers/Month: Limited to 10 transfers per month (new as of December 2024)
- 3-Day Expiry: Files automatically delete after just 3 days
- No Password Protection: Anyone with the link can download files
- No Transfer History: Can't track or revisit previous transfers
- No Custom Backgrounds: Stuck with default WeTransfer branding
- No Download Notifications: Don't know when recipients download files
- Limited Support: Basic community support only
WeTransfer Free vs Paid Plans Comparison
| Feature | WeTransfer Free | Starter ($6.99/month) | Ultimate ($25/month) |
|---|---|---|---|
| File Size Limit | 3GB per transfer | 300GB total/month | Unlimited |
| Monthly Transfers | 10 transfers/month | 10 transfers/month | Unlimited |
| Storage Duration | 3 days | 3 days | Unlimited |
| Password Protection | ❌ Not available | ✅ Available | ✅ Available |
| Transfer History | ❌ Not available | ✅ Full history | ✅ Full history |
| Custom Backgrounds | ❌ Default only | ✅ Custom branding | ✅ Custom branding |
| All Features | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
The Biggest Problem with WeTransfer Free
Since December 2024, the most significant limitations are the 10 transfers per month cap and 3-day expiration. Here's why this matters:
- Only 10 transfers per month—heavy users hit limits quickly
- Files disappear forever after one week
- No extension possible—even if you need files later
- Recipients must act fast or lose access permanently
- Important documents can be lost if not downloaded in time
- No backup or recovery options available
🚀 Solution: WetoDrive for Permanent Storage
Instead of racing against WeTransfer's 3-day clock, use WetoDrive to automatically save files to Google Drive permanently:
- Files saved permanently to your Google Drive
- No 3-day expiration—keep files forever
- No device storage used during transfer
- Automatic organization in Google Drive
- Access files from anywhere, anytime
- Free to start—5 transfers included
Common WeTransfer Free Use Cases
Perfect For:
- Quick one-time shares: Photos from events, documents for review
- Small file transfers: Documents under 2GB
- Temporary sharing: Files recipients will use immediately
- Non-sensitive content: Public or semi-public files
Not Ideal For:
- Important documents: Risk of losing access after just 3 days
- Large projects: Files over 3GB require multiple transfers
- Ongoing collaboration: Need access beyond one week
- Sensitive files: No password protection available
💡 Extend WeTransfer Free with Smart Automation
Keep using WeTransfer Free for sending, but automatically save received files to Google Drive with WetoDrive. Best of both worlds!
Try WetoDrive FreeHow to Maximize WeTransfer Free
Tips for Getting the Most Value:
- Compress files when approaching the 3GB limit
- Use immediately—don't wait to download important files
- Inform recipients about the 3-day deadline
- Split large transfers into multiple 3GB chunks if needed
- Consider alternatives for permanent storage needs