File uploader
How to Send Attachments without Using Storage Space in Gmail
When using Gmail, you may find yourself worried about "running out of storage" or "wanting to send large files without consuming storage space."
In Gmail, you can send files not only through standard attachments but also by utilizing cloud storage and file sharing services. Especially when frequently sending videos, high-quality images, or PDF documents, using shared links instead of attachments can help reduce storage consumption.
This article will provide a detailed explanation of how to send files without using Gmail's storage, as well as the pros and cons of each method.
First, Understand Gmail's Storage and Attachment System
Gmail has a limit on attachment sizes per email. When trying to attach a large file, it automatically switches to sharing a Google Drive link. The free storage of a Google account is shared across Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Photos, so files uploaded to Drive will also consume storage space.
Additionally, the Gmail attachment size limit is generally 25MB. Files exceeding this size cannot typically be attached and require cloud sharing.
Recommended Methods to Send Files without Using Storage
Checklist
- I don’t want to increase Gmail's storage capacity
- I want the recipient to easily download the files
- I want to send to someone who doesn’t have a Google account
- I want to send large files
- I want to share for a limited time
If any of the above apply, using file sharing services is recommended over standard attachments.
Method 1: Use a Google Drive Sharing Link
This is the simplest integration with Gmail. Upload a file to Google Drive, and include the sharing link in the email body to send it.
However, files stored in Google Drive will consume the storage of your Google account. So, it may not be optimal for those wanting to save storage.
Additionally, depending on the sharing settings, there may be cases where the recipient cannot access the file, so caution is necessary.
Method 2: Use a Free File Uploader
If you want to send files without consuming Gmail's storage, using a file uploader is convenient.
For example, UploadF provides a sharing URL when you upload a file. You simply paste that URL into the Gmail body to send it.
Main Features of UploadF
- Completely free to use
- Compatible with both PC and mobile
- Easy uploads with drag & drop
- Password protection available
- Selectable storage duration
- Individual file deletion feature
- Supports simultaneous uploads of 100 files
Since files are managed on the UploadF side, they do not consume the storage of Google Drive.
This method is also useful for temporary file transfers or data sharing with business partners.
If Sending Image Files, Utilize Convenient Features
If you frequently share images, you can also take advantage of image-related tools built into UploadF.
- AI Image Learning Prevention Tool
- Online OCR Tool
- Color Code Extraction
- Mosaic Processing
- Background Transparency
- Trimming & Resizing
- Watermark Addition
Even if you want to edit an image before sending it, you can work in the browser without installing separate software.
Method 3: Compress to Reduce File Size
If the file you want to send is just a little too large, compressing it into ZIP format may make it attachable.
However, videos and images are often already compressed, so significant size reduction is not guaranteed.
Also, this is a method to reduce attachment sizes rather than a method to avoid consuming storage.
Key Points to Prevent Gmail Storage Shortages
The storage of a Google account is shared among Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Photos. You can free up space by deleting unnecessary emails with attachments or old data.
- Delete large emails
- Organize unnecessary Google Drive data
- Remove unwanted photos and videos
- Utilize file sharing services
Especially when frequently exchanging large files, relying on shared links rather than email attachments can help avoid storage shortages.
Conclusion
If you want to send files without using Gmail’s storage, utilizing file sharing services is the most efficient method.
While Google Drive is convenient, it consumes storage space. In contrast, using file uploaders like UploadF allows for file sharing without worrying about Gmail or Google Drive storage.
If you wish to "avoid storage shortages" or "send large files easily,” consider using shared URLs for file sending.