The Gmail attachment limit, explained
Gmail lets you attach files up to 25 MB in total. Larger files can be added through Google Drive links, but that requires the recipient to open a Drive item and may need permissions. Receiving a message from Gmail to a different provider is also stricter: the other server may have its own, lower limit, and the message can bounce.
A plain link sidesteps both: it is just text, and it works anywhere.
How to send a large file in a Gmail message
The process takes about a minute and does not require leaving your inbox for long:
- Upload the file on this page. You do not need an account.
- Copy the link when the upload finishes.
- In Gmail, compose your message and paste the link into the body. Give the file a descriptive name so the recipient knows what to expect.
- Optionally, add a password and send it separately, or set the link to expire.
Make the link safer than an attachment
An attachment copies the file to every inbox forever. A link stays under your control:
Password
Add a password if the email might be forwarded.
Expiry
Use a lifetime of 24 hours or 7 days.
Download limit
Allow exactly one download with a limit.
Notification
Turn on the notification email to know when the file has been downloaded.
One link for many files
Bundle attachments into a group link.
Revoke
Switch the link off in your cabinet, without deleting the file.
Receive large files in Gmail too
If you want others to send you big files, give them an Upload Inbox link in your signature or an auto-reply. They upload from a browser with no account, and the files arrive in your cloud storage for you to accept or decline.
Outlook, Yahoo and other email
The same approach works for every email provider. Most providers cap attachments between 20 and 25 MB, and some corporate systems are stricter. A link is a safe default whenever you are unsure about the recipient’s mail server.
How to send a large file with Gmail in four steps
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1
Upload the file
Drop it on the box above.
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2
Copy the link
Take the link from the finished upload.
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3
Paste it into Gmail
Add it to the body of your email with a short explanation.
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4
Send, then revoke if needed
After the file is received, switch the link off from your cabinet.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Gmail attachment size limit?
Gmail allows attachments up to 25 MB in total per message.
How do I send a file larger than 25 MB?
Upload it here and paste the link into your email. The free plan allows up to 5 GB per file.
Does the recipient need an account?
No. They open the link in a browser.
Can I stop the link from working later?
Yes. Revoke it or set it to expire.
Does this work with Outlook and other email?
Yes. It is a normal link.