Gmail Attachment Size Limit: How to Send Large Files

Sun-Jun-2024
Gmail has an attachment size limit of 25 MB for a single email, including both the email text and attachments. If you need to send files larger than this limit, here are several methods to help you:

1. Google Drive

Gmail integrates with Google Drive, allowing you to send large files easily. Here’s how:

  1. Upload to Google Drive: Upload your file to Google Drive.
  2. Insert from Drive: In Gmail, click on the Google Drive icon when composing an email.
  3. Select Your File: Choose the file from your Google Drive.
  4. Send: Gmail will include a link to the file in your email. Ensure the file permissions are set so the recipient can view or download it.

2. File Compression

Compressing files can reduce their size:

  1. Compress Files: Use file compression software (e.g., WinRAR, 7-Zip) to compress files into a ZIP or RAR archive.
  2. Check Size: Ensure the compressed file is under 25 MB.
  3. Attach and Send: Attach the compressed file to your email.

3. Split Files

If compression is insufficient, split the file into smaller parts:

  1. Split Files: Use software like WinRAR to split the file into multiple parts.
  2. Attach Multiple Emails: Attach each part to separate emails.
  3. Provide Instructions: Include instructions for reassembling the parts.

4. Use Other Cloud Storage Services

If you prefer other services over Google Drive, you can use Dropbox, OneDrive, or similar:

  1. Upload to Cloud Storage: Upload the file to your chosen service.
  2. Get Shareable Link: Generate a shareable link for the file.
  3. Include Link in Email: Paste the link into your Gmail message.

5. Use File Transfer Services

Services like WeTransfer, Send Anywhere, or Filemail allow you to send large files without requiring an account:

  1. Upload File: Visit the service’s website and upload your file.
  2. Generate Link: Get a download link after uploading.
  3. Email the Link: Include the link in your Gmail message.

Steps to Send Large Files via Google Drive in Gmail

  1. Compose a New Email: Click on the “Compose” button in Gmail.
  2. Click the Google Drive Icon: It’s located at the bottom toolbar of the compose window.
  3. Upload or Select File:
    • If the file is already in Google Drive, select it from the list.
    • To upload a new file, click “Upload” and select the file from your computer.
  4. Insert as Drive Link: Ensure the file is inserted as a Google Drive link.
  5. Adjust Permissions: Set the file permissions so the recipient can view or download it. Click on “Change to anyone with the link” and select the appropriate permission level.
  6. Send Email: Complete your email and click “Send”.

Tips for Managing Large Attachments

  • Optimize File Size: Before uploading, consider optimizing the file size (e.g., reducing image resolution).
  • Check Recipient’s Access: Ensure the recipient has access to the cloud storage service used.
  • Use Secure Services: For sensitive data, use secure file transfer services.

By following these methods, you can effectively send large files through Gmail without being constrained by the 25 MB attachment limit.