Email size limits can be frustrating when you need to share large files. Most email providers cap attachments at 25MB, but there are several ways to work around these restrictions. Let’s explore five effective methods to send large files via email, starting with the most convenient options.
1. Use Cloud Storage Services
Cloud storage services offer the most seamless way to share large files through email.
Step 1: Upload your file to a cloud storage service like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive.
Step 2: Generate a shareable link for the file.
Step 3: Paste the link into your email message.
This method allows you to share files of any size without clogging up your recipient’s inbox. Most cloud services offer free plans with generous storage limits, making this an accessible option for most users.
2. Compress Files
For files just over the email limit, compression can be an effective solution.
Step 1: Right-click the file or folder you want to send.
Step 2: Select “Compress” or “Send to > Compressed (zipped) folder” on Windows, or “Compress” on Mac.
Step 3: Attach the compressed file to your email.
Compression can reduce file sizes by 10-75%, depending on the file type. However, this method is less effective for already compressed files like JPEGs or MP3s.
3. Use File Transfer Services
Dedicated file transfer services like WeTransfer or Filemail specialize in sending large files.
Step 1: Visit the file transfer service’s website.
Step 2: Upload your file and enter your recipient’s email address.
Step 3: The service will send an email to your recipient with a download link.
These services often offer free tiers that allow sending files up to 2GB or more, making them ideal for very large files or multiple file transfers.
4. Split Large Files
For extremely large files, splitting them into smaller parts can be a viable option.
Step 1: Use a file splitting tool like 7-Zip or HJSplit.
Step 2: Split your large file into smaller segments that fit within email size limits.
Step 3: Send each segment as a separate email attachment.
Step 4: Provide instructions to your recipient on how to reassemble the file.
While this method requires more effort, it’s useful when other options aren’t available or when sending to recipients with strict email security policies.
5. Use Built-in Large File Sending Features
Some email providers offer built-in solutions for sending large files.
For Gmail users:
Step 1: Attempt to attach a file larger than 25MB.
Step 2: Gmail will automatically upload the file to Google Drive and insert a download link in your email.
For Outlook users:
Step 1: Enable OneDrive integration in Outlook settings.
Step 2: When attaching large files, Outlook will prompt you to upload to OneDrive and share a link.
These integrated features combine the convenience of email with the capacity of cloud storage, making them an excellent option when available.
When choosing a method to send large files, consider factors like file size, recipient’s technical expertise, and security requirements. Cloud storage and file transfer services generally offer the best balance of convenience and capability for most users. However, compression or file splitting can be useful in specific situations where other methods aren’t suitable.