TestFlight is great—until it isn't. Review delays, build expirations, and requiring testers to install yet another app can slow down your development cycle. If you've hit these limitations, you're not alone.
This guide explores the best TestFlight alternatives for iOS developers in 2026, comparing features, limitations, and use cases to help you choose the right solution.
When to Consider TestFlight Alternatives
TestFlight works well for many scenarios, but alternatives shine when:
- You need speed — TestFlight external testing requires Apple review (24-48 hours). OTA alternatives are instant.
- Builds expire too fast — TestFlight builds last 90 days. OTA links can be permanent.
- Testers don't want another app — TestFlight requires all testers to install the TestFlight app.
- You build for iOS and Android — TestFlight is iOS only. Cross-platform tools handle both.
- Internal testing needs privacy — Some teams prefer not routing builds through Apple's servers.
- Quick iteration — Sharing builds with teammates should be instant, not gated.
Top TestFlight Alternatives
1. BetaDrop — Fastest Distribution
BetaDrop provides instant iOS OTA distribution without any review process or tester registration.
How it works:
- Upload your IPA file
- Get a shareable install link immediately
- Testers tap the link to install—no TestFlight app needed
Key features:
- Zero review delay—builds available instantly
- No tester account or app installation required
- Supports both iOS and Android
- Free with no hidden limits
- QR codes for easy mobile sharing
- No build expiration (unlike TestFlight's 90 days)
Requirements:
- IPA signed with Ad Hoc or Enterprise provisioning
- Device UDIDs must be in the provisioning profile (for Ad Hoc)
Best for: Teams needing rapid iteration, internal testing, and minimal friction for testers. Learn more about distributing iOS apps without TestFlight.
2. Firebase App Distribution
Google's Firebase platform includes app distribution as part of its suite. It's free and integrates well if you're already using Firebase.
Key features:
- Integration with Firebase Crashlytics
- Fastlane and Gradle plugins
- Tester groups for organized distribution
- In-app feedback collection
- CLI and API access
Limitations:
- iOS testers need the Firebase App Tester app
- Testers must accept email invitations
- More setup compared to simpler alternatives
- Tied to Google ecosystem
Best for: Teams already using Firebase services who want unified tooling.
3. Diawi
Diawi is a straightforward upload-and-share tool that's been around for years.
Key features:
- Simple web upload interface
- No account required for basic uploads
- Supports iOS and Android
- Password protection option
Limitations:
- Free tier has short link expiration
- No tester management
- Limited analytics without paid plan
- Ads on free tier
Best for: Quick one-off sharing when you don't need persistence or tracking.
4. Microsoft App Center
App Center offers distribution alongside CI/CD, crash reporting, and analytics.
Key features:
- Full CI/CD pipeline
- Automatic builds from Git repos
- Distribution groups
- Detailed analytics
- Push notifications
Limitations:
- Complex setup for distribution-only use
- Free tier has build minute limits
- Overkill if you just need to share builds
Best for: Teams wanting integrated DevOps with distribution.
5. Manual OTA Distribution
You can set up OTA distribution yourself using any HTTPS server.
Requirements:
- Web server with HTTPS and valid SSL
- Manifest.plist file configuration
- Proper MIME types set up
Limitations:
- Manual effort for every build
- Error-prone configuration
- No built-in analytics or management
Best for: Teams with specific hosting requirements who want full control. See our guide on OTA installation for details.
Comparison Table
| Feature | TestFlight | BetaDrop | Firebase | Diawi |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Review time | 24-48h | Instant | Instant | Instant |
| Build expiration | 90 days | None | None | Limited (free) |
| Tester app required | Yes | No | Yes (iOS) | No |
| Android support | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Tester account | Apple ID | None | Required | None |
| Price | Free | Free | Free | Freemium |
Understanding iOS Distribution Methods
Ad Hoc Distribution
Available with any Apple Developer account ($99/year). Allows distribution to up to 100 devices per device type annually. Each device UDID must be registered in your provisioning profile.
Enterprise Distribution
Requires Apple Developer Enterprise Program ($299/year). No device limits, but intended for internal company apps. Stricter approval process for the program itself.
When to Use Which
- Small tester group (<100) — Ad Hoc works fine
- Large organization — Enterprise if you qualify
- Public beta with many testers — TestFlight is actually good here
- Quick internal testing — Ad Hoc + OTA distribution (like BetaDrop)
Making the Switch from TestFlight
Step 1: Choose Your Alternative
For most teams wanting to escape TestFlight's limitations, BetaDrop is the fastest path. No setup required—just upload and share.
Step 2: Prepare Your IPA
Export from Xcode with Ad Hoc distribution (not Development or App Store). Include the UDIDs of all test devices in your provisioning profile.
Step 3: Upload and Share
With BetaDrop, drag your IPA to the upload area. You'll get an install link immediately. Share with testers—they tap to install without any app downloads.
Step 4: Manage Device Registration
For new testers, collect their device UDIDs, add them to Apple Developer portal, and regenerate your provisioning profile. BetaDrop provides tools to help collect UDIDs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best alternative to TestFlight?
For most developers, BetaDrop offers the best combination of simplicity and speed. Firebase is excellent for teams in that ecosystem. Diawi works for occasional quick shares.
Why would I use something other than TestFlight?
Common reasons: avoiding 24-48 hour reviews, preventing 90-day build expiration, not requiring testers to install TestFlight, needing Android support, or requiring instant distribution for internal testing.
Can I distribute iOS apps without TestFlight?
Yes. OTA (Over-The-Air) distribution uses Apple's itms-services protocol to install apps directly without TestFlight. Platforms like BetaDrop automate this process.
Do TestFlight alternatives require Enterprise certificates?
No. Standard Ad Hoc distribution works with most alternatives. Enterprise certificates are optional and remove the 100-device limit but require a separate $299/year program.
Are TestFlight alternatives less secure?
No. OTA distribution uses HTTPS and signed IPAs, just like TestFlight. The security is equivalent—Apple's code signing ensures only authorized apps can run.
Summary
TestFlight remains a solid choice for large public betas, but alternatives are better when you need:
- Instant distribution without 24-48 hour reviews
- No build expiration (TestFlight limits to 90 days)
- No extra app for testers to install
- Cross-platform iOS and Android support
For the fastest, simplest TestFlight alternative: upload your build on BetaDrop and get an install link in seconds.
