Zynk is a free, end-to-end encrypted file-sharing tool that transfers files directly between devices without cloud storage, supporting Mac, Windows, Linux, iOS, Android, Steam Deck, and Raspberry Pi.
What is Zynk?
Zynk sends files directly between devices over local or wide-area networks, with no file size limits and no cloud upload. It takes any file as input and delivers it either to another device running Zynk or as a shareable browser link for recipients who don’t have the app. The software is developed by Zynk (no company name stated) and runs on desktop and mobile operating systems, plus devices like Steam Deck and Raspberry Pi.
Key Features
- Direct encrypted transfers — Files go straight from sender to receiver using end-to-end encryption; 78.88 GB of RAW photos completed in 11 minutes over a local gigabit connection (speeds vary by network).
- No size limits — Transfers of any size are supported; the demo shows an 85 GB RAW set sent without splitting or compression.
- Cross-platform support — One app runs on Mac, Windows, Linux, iOS, Android, Steam Deck, and Raspberry Pi; devices discover each other automatically.
- Link sharing — Upload files to Zynk and get a shareable link; recipients download in a browser with no account or sign-up required. Supports gallery view for multiple files.
- Menu bar app — Drop files onto the 32‑pixel menu bar icon, pick a contact, and the transfer starts immediately; also works with ⌘V paste.
- CLI support — Command‑line interface available for scripting and automation (learn more).
- End-to-end encryption — All transfers are encrypted before leaving the sender’s device; only the intended recipient can decrypt.
Who is it for?
- Photographers and videographers — Send large RAW sets (e.g., 78 GB from a Pixel 8 to a MacBook) in minutes without cloud uploads or file size caps.
- Creative teams — Quickly exchange project files (videos, design assets, archives) between different devices and operating systems.
- Personal users — Sync documents, photos, and videos across your own devices (phone, laptop, home server, Steam Deck) without subscription services.
What can you do with Zynk?
- Transfer a large RAW photo set — Send 412 files totaling 78.88 GB from a Pixel 8 to a MacBook Air; completed in 11 minutes.
- Share an album with friends via link — Upload a group of files (e.g., “Maren’s Birthday” with 36 files, 1.96 GB) and copy a share.zynk.it link; recipients view a gallery and download in their browser without creating an account.
- Sync files between a home server and a mobile device — Push documents or media from a home server to a Galaxy S24 or Steam Deck for offline access.
How does Zynk work?
Install Zynk on each device you want to send from and receive on. To send, drop a file onto the menu bar icon (or use the CLI), select an online contact or device, and the transfer begins directly — no cloud intermediary. For link sharing, open Zynk, upload files, and copy the generated URL to share via any messaging app. Recipients open the link in a browser to download or view a gallery.
Pricing
Zynk is free to download and use. No paid tiers are mentioned on the site. Downloads are available for Linux (AppImage) and all other platforms from the download page.
FAQ
Is Zynk really free?
Yes. The website states “Free” and “Free. End-to-end encrypted.” There are no size limits, watermarks, or premium features listed.
Do recipients need to install Zynk?
No. If you use link sharing, anyone can download files in a browser with no account or sign-up. For direct device-to-device transfers, both sender and receiver must have Zynk installed.
What platforms are supported?
Zynk supports Mac, Windows, Linux, iOS, Android, Steam Deck, and Raspberry Pi. See the list of all builds.
