Apart from bearing the Android File Transfer’s uninspiring interface, it caps the file transfer limits to 4GB. God forbid if you are trying to transfer data directly to a microSD card. To top it all, one often struggles with just the basic MTP (Mobile Transfer Protocol) connectivity with several devices. Indeed, Mac users miss out on the Plug and Play experience of Android on Windows. So it’s high time you put an end to it and check out this list of the best Android File Transfer alternative apps for Mac.
OpenMTP [Free]
The OpenMTP is an excellent free, open-source alternative of the Android File Transfer for Mac users. It provides a very pleasant-looking dual-panel interface for transferring files between your Android phone and a Mac. Most importantly, you can transfer files that are larger than 4GB (happy dance) easily. You can pick between a Grid view or a List view on either of the panes. Out of the dual panels, the left signifies your Mac, and the right one is your Android phone. Well, it can smartly pick up between your phone’s internal storage and a memory card too. You can easily drag and drop the files you wish to copy or transfer, and the transfer speeds are incredible. One of the best features is that you can click on Settings and let OpenMTP show you all the hidden files. Get OpenMTP
AnyTrans (AnyDroid) [Freemium]
An older Android version running phone can lock you out on multiple fronts. Thankfully, AnyTrans (renamed to AnyDroid) for Android lets you connect your phone to a Mac through a dedicated app or web interface. Their mac app to mobile app connectivity can be frustrating if you want to quickly transfer a few photos or songs. I could blame Catalina for those issues. I often end up using the web interface for that and often have managed to download a few videos for personal usage from several popular video sites. Also, the fact that you can even use it shuffle files between your phone and Mac at blazing fast transfer speeds is the cherry on the top. The iOS to Android direct file sharing and transfer is one of the coolest features of this app. Besides that, you can also organize and manage your photos as well as videos from it. The AnyTrans (AnyDroid) for Android app for the Mac is available from the Setapp app suite that provides access to over 150 apps (a lot of paid ones) for $9.99 monthly subscription. You can buy a lifetime license of AnyTrans (AnyDroid) that brings you 24/7 customer support by paying a one-time fee of $39.99. After that, no matter how many phones you change, the support team will always be there to assist you. Get AnyTrans (AnyDroid)
SyncMate [Freemium]
This is another kickass Android file transfer app that provides system-wide access to data such as Music, SMS, Call History, Bookmarks, and even Reminders. Although, the free version only lets you sync contacts, SMS, Calls, and Calendar. One of the coolest things about SyncMate is that it connects your phone to Mac like an external hard drive. Again, the free version will let you only sinch Calendar, Contacts, and SMS. So if they matter to you a lot, and even sync them in the background. Well, even SyncMate’s initiation process for establishing a connection over USB is a bit tricky. I tried with the Wi-Fi, and it worked like a charm. I used it only to take a backup of all the SMS texts that I’ve accumulated over the years. SyncMate’s Expert license will cost you $39.95 for 2 Macs. Get SyncMate
AirMore [Freemium]
Lastly, the honorary mention goes to a robust AirDroid alternative – AirMore. I know, I know, AirMore isn’t technically an “app” for macOS. However, it does offer a slick Web interface. AirDroid did raise some eyebrows with security concerns, and I prefer using AirMore to transfer messages, files, and even sync notifications between a Mac and an Android phone. Read our comparison between AirDroid and AirMore to find out which option comes at the top. Open the AirMore interface offers to let you connect your Android phone using a QR code or the Radar scan mode. Once you connect your phone to the web interface, everything will is just swift and fluid to transfer and move around. Transferring files is almost like using one of the dedicated desktop apps mentioned on this list. Apart from taking backup of data, you can even include apps and other documents. I use the Reflector function to take screenshots for guides and more. Get AirMore
The True Alternative
While there are several paid third-party options out there, I found the apps this list feature-rich enough and easy to use. My objective was straightforward – transfer files and backup data from the Android phone with the least amount of hassles. While none of these are perfect, you can always use two or more of these alternatives with your Mac. Whether you want to take a backup of just the media files or other important data, these apps will help you achieve that smoothly. If you happen to know any other alternative, share it in the comments below. Also, share your experience with it and a specific feature that you would want others to try out. Next up: Bought a new iPhone to replace an old Android? Check the next link to transfer your contacts from Android to iPhone successfully. The above article may contain affiliate links which help support Guiding Tech. However, it does not affect our editorial integrity. The content remains unbiased and authentic.
