Hightail
Hightail is a cloud-based collaboration software that simplifies creative asset reviews by allowing you to share large files, collect precise feedback, and manage project approvals in one central location.
M-Files
M-Files is a metadata-driven document management platform that organizes and secures your business information based on what it is rather than where it is stored across your organization.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Hightail | M-Files |
|---|---|---|
| Website | hightail.com | m-files.com |
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Custom |
| Starting Price | Free | Custom Pricing |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 14 days free trial | ✓ 30 days free trial |
| Free Plan | ✓ Has free plan | ✘ No free plan |
| Product Demo | ✓ Request demo here | ✓ Request demo here |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 2004 | 1987 |
| Headquarters | Campbell, USA | Tampere, Finland |
Overview
Hightail
Hightail helps you streamline the entire creative process from initial file sharing to final approval. Instead of juggling endless email threads and confusing feedback, you can upload high-resolution files and invite your team or clients to leave comments directly on the creative assets. This visual approach ensures everyone is on the same page and eliminates the guesswork often associated with creative revisions.
You can manage your entire production pipeline by assigning tasks, setting due dates, and tracking version history in real-time. Whether you are a freelance designer or part of a large marketing agency, the platform scales to meet your needs with secure encryption and controlled access. It simplifies your workflow by consolidating feedback and file delivery into a single, professional environment.
M-Files
M-Files changes how you interact with company data by ditching traditional folder structures for a metadata-driven approach. Instead of hunting through nested folders, you find documents based on what they are—like a specific client name, project ID, or expiration date. This unique system connects to your existing storage, whether that is SharePoint, network folders, or local drives, giving you a single point of truth without moving all your files.
You can automate complex business processes like invoice approvals, contract lifecycles, and compliance audits with built-in workflow tools. The platform automatically applies security permissions and retention policies based on the document type, ensuring your sensitive data stays protected. It is particularly effective for regulated industries like manufacturing, professional services, and financial firms where document control and audit trails are non-negotiable requirements.
Overview
Hightail Features
- Large File Sharing Send high-resolution files up to 500GB quickly and securely without worrying about inbox size limits or compression issues.
- Visual Feedback Leave precise comments on specific areas of images and videos so your team knows exactly what changes you need.
- Project Spaces Organize your creative assets into dedicated spaces where you can manage files, feedback, and approvals in one place.
- Approval Routing Streamline your sign-off process by assigning specific reviewers and tracking approval status for every version of your project.
- Version Control Keep your projects organized by stacking new versions on top of old ones while maintaining a complete history of changes.
- Custom Branding Present a professional image to your clients by adding your own logo and brand colors to your file-sharing pages.
M-Files Features
- Metadata-Driven Search. Find any document instantly by searching for what it is—like a customer or date—instead of remembering where it was saved.
- Automated Workflows. Streamline your business processes by automating document approvals, notifications, and task assignments to keep your team moving forward.
- External Repository Connectors. Access and manage files stored in SharePoint, Google Drive, or network folders directly through one unified M-Files interface.
- Version Control. Track every change made to a document and revert to previous versions easily, ensuring you always work on the latest draft.
- Dynamic Permissions. Control access automatically based on metadata, so only the right people see sensitive documents without manual folder-level adjustments.
- Offline Access. View and edit your critical documents even without an internet connection, with automatic syncing once you are back online.
Pricing Comparison
Hightail Pricing
- 2GB total storage
- 100MB file size limit
- Share files and photos
- Basic collaboration tools
- Mobile app access
- Everything in Lite, plus:
- Unlimited total storage
- 25GB file size limit
- Individual file tracking
- Custom expiration dates
- Password protection
M-Files Pricing
Pros & Cons
Hightail
Pros
- Intuitive interface makes it easy for clients to leave feedback
- Handles very large video and high-res image files smoothly
- Consolidates feedback directly on the creative asset for clarity
- Professional presentation of files improves client relationships
Cons
- Mobile app features are limited compared to the web version
- Notification settings can be overwhelming during busy projects
- Free version has very restrictive file size limits
M-Files
Pros
- Superior search capabilities compared to traditional folder systems
- Highly flexible metadata structure adapts to any business
- Excellent version history and audit trail for compliance
- Strong integration with Microsoft Office and Outlook
Cons
- Initial setup and configuration requires significant planning
- Steep learning curve for users used to folders
- Mobile app interface is less intuitive than desktop
- Pricing is high for very small businesses