FTP Server (Free) vs SambaLite
Side-by-side comparison of two open source alternatives
FTP Server (Free)
This app can serve files over the internet but the most likely usage is to access files from another computer without needing a cable. The name Demo in the launcher just means that it corresponds to the free version on Google. The app is fully featured so instead of buying the "Full" version as a way of contributing you can donate via the Paypal link.
SambaLite
SambaLite is a lightweight, modern, and open-source Android client for SMB/CIFS shares (Samba). It is designed as a minimalist, reliable, and secure tool for accessing SMB shares on your local network – without ads, tracking, or unnecessary features. SambaLite is a file client, not a system-level filesystem. It focuses on accessing and transferring files, not on providing a mounted network drive. The app is intended for tech-savvy users who prefer a lean, transparent solution and value privacy and open source. Main features: • Manage connections: SMB server (hostname/IP), share/path, username, password, optional domain • Multiple connections with custom names • Connection testing with clear error messages • Secure credential storage (Android Keystore) • File browser with name, type, size, and modification date • Pull-to-refresh • Sorting (name, date, size) • File operations: download, upload, delete, rename • File properties • Dark/Light mode (system default) Compatibility: • Supports modern SMB2/SMB3 servers • SMB1 is not supported (deprecated and insecure) Security & Privacy: • No telemetry or third-party connections • No unencrypted storage of sensitive data • Credentials stored securely using the Android Keystore Permissions: SambaLite only requests the permissions required for its functionality: • Network access (SMB communication) • Access to user-selected storage locations (via Android system file picker) • Foreground service and notifications (for reliable background transfers and progress display) No data is collected or transmitted to third parties. SambaLite provides a modern, minimal, and privacy-friendly way to access SMB shares on Android – focused on reliability and transparency.
| Feature | FTP Server (Free) | SambaLite |
|---|---|---|
| License | GPL-3.0-only | Apache-2.0 |
| Install sources | F-DroidGitHub | F-DroidGitHub |
| Categories | Cloud StorageMessaging | Cloud StorageMessaging |
| Features | Ad-FreeOpen SourceNo Tracking | Ad-FreeOpen SourceNo Tracking |
| Platforms | Android | Android |
| Website | ||
| Source code |