Transferring files between computers and Android devices is not exactly a comfortable task for most users. We have previously explored solutions like LocalSend, AdbFileManager, and Nearby Share, but today we would like to add Warpinator, a fork of the original program created by the Linux Mint team, which works very well on both Windows and Android.
AirDroid became bloatware, Nearby Share works when it wants, and not all users want to rely on an “umbilical cord” to transfer files between computers and Android devices. So what alternatives do we have? Fortunately, we came across Warpinator, a fork of the original made by Linux Mint, maintained by 'slowscript' on GitHub. Essentially, the program is split into two: an APK to install on the Android device, and a portable Windows client.
How to transfer files between Android and PC with Warpinator
The Windows client of Warpinator is nothing more than a zip file that we can unzip into a temporary folder, while the APK can be installed manually, or using F-Droid/Google Play. The only major technical requirement is that all devices involved share the same wireless network, or else they won’t be able to “see” each other.
The rest is a matter of running Warpinator on Windows, doing the same on the mobile device, starting the transfer, and granting the necessary permissions. Warpinator allows us to select multiple files at once, and even send folders, but the average session will likely be limited to one or two files. In one of our tests, we decided to transfer a 41 MB image from Windows to Android, and Warpinator responded perfectly, without errors or pauses.
Finally, Warpinator automatically creates its own folder within the downloads sections (i.e., the Downloads folders on Windows and Android). Both clients have a menu with advanced parameters, however, we noticed that the default configuration works very well. Link below!
Warpinator for Windows: Click here
Warpinator for Android: Click here
