How to send large files via Gmail without Google Drive is a common issue for many users.
Gmail has a 25MB attachment limit, which makes it difficult to send big files directly. When a file is larger than this limit, Gmail suggests using Google Drive.
However, not everyone wants to use Google Drive due to storage limits, privacy concerns, or personal preferences.
If you need to send large files through Gmail without Google Drive, there are other ways to do it.
You can compress the file, split it into smaller parts, or use third-party file transfer services like WeTransfer or pCloud Transfer.
These methods help you send big files easily while ensuring security and fast delivery. In this guide, we will explain the best ways to share large attachments without Google Drive.
Why Avoid Google Drive?
Many users rely on Google Drive to send large files through Gmail, but it is not always the best option. There are several reasons why you might want to avoid it:
- Limited Storage Space – Google Drive offers 15GB of free storage, which is shared across Gmail, Google Photos, and other services. Large files can quickly use up this space, forcing you to buy more storage.
- Privacy Concerns – Some users prefer not to upload files to Google’s servers due to data privacy concerns. Google Drive files may also be scanned for security purposes.
- File Access Issues – When sharing via Google Drive, the recipient might face permission errors, requiring manual access approval, which can be inconvenient.
- Slow Upload and Download Speeds – Uploading large files to Google Drive can take time, especially with a slow internet connection. The recipient also needs to download the file before accessing it.
- Dependency on Google Services – Not everyone uses Google Drive. Some prefer alternative cloud storage or direct file transfer methods without relying on Google’s ecosystem.
For these reasons, many users look for other ways to send large files via Gmail without Google Drive. In the next section, we will explore the best alternatives.
Why Google Drive can be the Best Option?
While some users prefer to avoid Google Drive, it remains one of the most reliable ways to send large files through Gmail. Here’s why Google Drive can be the best option:
- High File Size Limit – Unlike Gmail’s 25MB attachment limit, Google Drive allows you to upload and share files up to 5TB, making it useful for large documents, videos, and other big files.
- Easy File Sharing – Google Drive lets you share files with a simple link. You can control who can view, comment, or edit, making collaboration easier.
- Secure Cloud Storage – Google Drive offers end-to-end encryption, keeping your files secure. Even if your computer crashes, your files remain safe in the cloud.
- Seamless Integration with Google Services – It works smoothly with Gmail, Google Docs, and Google Photos. You can attach files directly from Drive without needing third-party services.
- Multi-Device Access – Google Drive lets you access and download files from any device, whether it’s a PC, tablet, or smartphone. This makes it convenient for both senders and recipients.
- Automatic Backup and Version Control – Google Drive saves previous file versions, so you can restore older versions if needed. This is helpful for team projects and important documents.
If you don’t have concerns about storage limits or privacy, Google Drive is one of the best ways to send large files via Gmail. However, if you want alternatives, there are many other ways to send big files without using Google Drive.
How to Send Large Files via Gmail without Google Drive?
If you are looking for ways to send large files via Gmail without Google Drive, there are several options available.
Below are some of the best methods to send big files through Gmail without using Google Drive.
1. Compress the File (ZIP or RAR)
One of the simplest ways to send large files through Gmail is by compressing them into a ZIP or RAR format. File compression reduces the size of files and allows you to send them as an attachment.
How to Compress Files on Windows & Mac?
- Windows:
- Right-click on the file or folder you want to send.
- Select Send to > Compressed (zipped) folder.
- A new ZIP file will be created in the same location.
- Attach the ZIP file to your Gmail email and send it.
- Mac:
- Right-click on the file or folder.
- Click Compress.
- A ZIP file will be created.
- Attach the ZIP file in Gmail and send the email.
Limitations of ZIP Compression
- Compression may not reduce the size of already compressed files (like videos or PDFs).
- If the ZIP file still exceeds 25MB, you will need to try another method.
2. Split the File into Smaller Parts
If the file is too large, you can split it into smaller parts and send them as separate emails. This method works well for videos, large documents, and software files.
How to Split Files Using WinRAR or 7-Zip?
- Download and install WinRAR or 7-Zip.
- Right-click on the large file.
- Select Add to archive (WinRAR) or Add to ZIP (7-Zip).
- In the archive options, select Split to volumes and choose a file size (e.g., 10MB per file).
- The software will create multiple small files.
- Attach and send each file in separate emails.
How to Reassemble Split Files?
The recipient will need to download all parts, place them in the same folder, and use WinRAR or 7-Zip to extract them.
3. Use an Online File Compression Tool
If you don’t want to install software, you can use online file compression tools to reduce file size before sending it via Gmail.
Popular Online Compression Tools
- WeCompress – Reduces PDF, PowerPoint, Word, and image file sizes.
- TinyPNG – Compresses large PNG and JPG images.
- CloudConvert – Converts and compresses videos, PDFs, and other files.
Steps to Compress Files Online
- Visit an online compression tool.
- Upload the file.
- Wait for the compression process to complete.
- Download the compressed file.
- Attach the smaller file in Gmail and send it.
4. Use Third-Party File Transfer Services
If you need to send very large files, using file transfer services is a great option. These services generate a link that you can share via Gmail.
Best Third-Party File Transfer Services
- WeTransfer – Free file transfers up to 2GB.
- Dropbox – Free file sharing up to 2GB with a link.
- OneDrive – Microsoft’s cloud service with free storage.
- SendAnywhere – Transfers large files using a secure key.
How to Send Large Files Using WeTransfer
- Go to WeTransfer.
- Click Upload Files and select your file.
- Click Get a Link.
- Copy the link and paste it in your Gmail email.
- Send the email with the file link.
5. Convert Files to a Smaller Format
If your file size is too big, converting it to a lighter format can help reduce its size.
How to Reduce Image File Size?
- Convert PNG to JPG to reduce size.
- Use WEBP format for even smaller file sizes.
- Online tools like TinyPNG or Squoosh can help.
How to Reduce PDF File Size?
- Use SmallPDF or ILovePDF to compress PDFs.
- Remove unnecessary images and large fonts before sending.
How to Reduce Video File Size?
- Convert AVI or MOV to MP4 using HandBrake or CloudConvert.
- Reduce the video resolution before sending.
6. Use Email-Based File Transfer Services
Some services allow you to send large files directly via email without using Google Drive.
Best Email File Transfer Services
- pCloud Transfer – Free encrypted file transfer up to 5GB.
- MailBigFile – Sends large files in a few simple steps.
How to Use pCloud Transfer?
- Visit pCloud Transfer.
- Upload the file.
- Enter the recipient’s email address.
- Click Send.
- The recipient will receive a direct download link.
Best Practices to Send a Large File via Email
While there are many alternative methods, following the best practices ensures that your files reach the recipient without issues. Below are some key practices to follow when sending large files through Gmail.
1. Check File Size Before Sending
Before attaching a file, check its size to ensure it doesn’t exceed Gmail’s 25MB limit. If the file is larger, consider compressing, splitting, or using a file transfer service.
How to Check File Size?
- Windows: Right-click the file > Click Properties > Check Size.
- Mac: Right-click the file > Click Get Info > Check Size.
If the file is close to the 25MB limit, minor adjustments like removing unnecessary elements can help reduce its size.
2. Use the Right File Format
Choosing the correct file format can help reduce file size and improve compatibility for the recipient.
Best File Formats for Email Attachments:
- Documents: Use PDF instead of Word files for better compatibility.
- Images: Convert PNG to JPG or WEBP to reduce file size.
- Videos: Use MP4 instead of AVI or MOV to save space.
- Spreadsheets: Convert Excel files to CSV if possible.
Converting files before sending them ensures faster delivery and easier access for the recipient.
3. Compress Files Before Sending
If your file size is slightly above the 25MB limit, compressing it into a ZIP or RAR file can reduce its size.
However, if compression does not bring the file size below 25MB, consider other methods like splitting or using external transfer services.
4. Split Large Files into Smaller Parts
If a file is too large, splitting it into smaller parts allows you to send it through multiple emails.
This method is useful for sending software files, large documents, and videos.
5. Use Secure File Transfer Services
For extremely large files, using a third-party file transfer service is the best option. These services generate a download link, which can be shared via Gmail.
6. Ensure File Security and Privacy
When sending sensitive files, security is a priority. Using password protection and encryption prevents unauthorized access.
How to Secure Files?
- Use Password-Protected ZIP Files – When compressing, set a password.
- Encrypt Documents – For PDFs, use Adobe Acrobat or SmallPDF to add encryption.
- Use pCloud Transfer – Offers encrypted file sharing without requiring sign-ups.
Always verify that the recipient has access to the password or decryption key before sending.
7. Verify File Access for the Recipient
Even if the file is sent correctly, the recipient should be able to open it without issues.
Steps to Ensure Access:
- Ask the recipient which file format works best for them.
- If using a file-sharing service, double-check the link permissions.
- If the file is split, provide instructions on how to reassemble it.
Testing the file on a different device before sending can help prevent access problems.
8. Use a Stable Internet Connection
Uploading large files requires a stable and fast internet connection. If your connection is slow, file uploads may fail or get interrupted.
Tips to Improve Upload Speed:
- Use a wired connection instead of Wi-Fi.
- Avoid uploading large files during peak hours.
- If using cloud storage, pause other internet activities to speed up the process.
A failed upload can result in incomplete file transfers, so always check that the file is fully uploaded before sending.
9. Double-Check the Email Before Sending
Before hitting Send, review the email to ensure everything is correct.
Checklist Before Sending:
✔ Ensure the file size is within Gmail’s limit or use an alternative method.
✔ Check if the correct file version is attached.
✔ If sending multiple emails, label them properly (e.g., Part 1, Part 2, etc.).
✔ If using a file-sharing link, confirm the recipient has access.
✔ Mention any required passwords or instructions in the email.
Taking a moment to review the email prevents errors and unnecessary follow-ups.
Final Words
In conclusion, sending large files via Gmail without Google Drive is entirely possible if you follow the right practices.
While Gmail has a 25MB size limit for attachments, there are several methods to ensure your files are sent successfully and securely.
By compressing files, splitting them into smaller parts, or using external file transfer services, you can easily work around Gmail’s limitations.
Additionally, file security is crucial when sharing sensitive content. Protecting your files with passwords or encryption ensures that only the intended recipient can access them.
Ensuring compatibility by choosing the right file formats and checking internet connection stability further optimizes the process.
Finally, always remember to review your email and attachments before hitting Send. This final check can save time and prevent issues later.
With these methods, you can effectively send large files via Gmail without needing to rely on Google Drive, offering you a more flexible and secure way to share your content.
