File Request Pro is a solid tool for businesses that need branded upload pages connected to Google Drive or OneDrive. But for many users, it's more than they need — and the pricing reflects that complexity.
If you just want to collect files from people without a heavy setup, here are alternatives.
What File Request Pro offers
File Request Pro creates branded upload pages that route files directly to your cloud storage (Google Drive, OneDrive, SharePoint, Dropbox). It includes:
- Multi-page upload forms with conditional logic
- Automated email reminder sequences
- Sub-folder routing (files organized by client name automatically)
- Cloud storage integration as the primary storage layer
- White-label branding
Pricing starts at ~$15-30/month. There's a 15-day free trial.
Why people look for alternatives
Based on common complaints and limitations:
Overkill for simple needs. If you just need "send me the files," configuring multi-page forms with conditional logic feels like setting up a CRM to send one email.
Cloud storage dependency. Files must go to Google Drive or OneDrive. If you don't use these, or if your free Google Drive is full, it doesn't work.
No resumable uploads. Large files on unstable connections can fail and need to restart from zero.
Pricing. For occasional file collection — a wedding, a hiring round, a school project — paying monthly doesn't make sense.
Alternative 1: getfiles.app (free)
Create an upload page in 10 seconds. No cloud storage configuration needed.
- No account required for anyone
- File checklists to specify what you need
- Resumable uploads for large files
- Custom branding (logo + colors)
- Password protection
- Works in 19 languages
- Download as ZIP
Best for: One-off or occasional file collection. Freelancers, small teams, events, education.
Price: Free.
Alternative 2: Dropbox File Request
Built into Dropbox. Create a request link, files go to a folder in your Dropbox.
Best for: Dropbox users collecting small amounts of files.
Limitation: 2 GB storage on free plan. No checklist, no branding, no resume.
Alternative 3: Google Forms with file upload
Add a file upload field to a Google Form.
Best for: Schools and organizations where everyone has Google accounts.
Limitation: Uploaders must have a Google account. Max 10 files per submission.
Alternative 4: JotForm
Form builder with file upload fields. More form-focused than file-focused.
Best for: Complex forms that happen to include a few file uploads.
Limitation: Free plan limited to 100 MB storage and 100 submissions/month.
Comparison
| Feature | File Request Pro | getfiles.app | Dropbox Request | Google Forms |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Uploader needs account | No | No | No | Yes (Google) |
| Cloud storage integration | Yes | No (ZIP download) | Yes (Dropbox) | Yes (Google Drive) |
| File checklist | No | Yes | No | No |
| Resumable uploads | No | Yes | No | No |
| Custom branding | Yes | Yes | No | Limited |
| Automated reminders | Yes | No | No | No |
| Free plan | Trial only | Yes (free) | Yes (2 GB) | Yes (10 GB) |
| Setup time | 10-30 min | 10 seconds | 2 min | 5-10 min |
Which to pick
Choose File Request Pro if you collect files from clients regularly, need cloud storage routing, and want automated reminder emails. The monthly cost is justified by time saved.
Choose getfiles.app if you want something simple and free — create a link, share it, receive files. No setup, no configuration, no monthly bill. File checklists and branding included.
Choose Dropbox/Google if you're already deep in those ecosystems and your use case is small-scale.
→ getfiles.app — the simplest free alternative.