Efficient file management is important, especially when you work with teams. If you use Gmail to communicate frequently, it integrates well with the Google Drive cloud storage. You can attach files directly from it, eliminating storage consumption from keeping local files. But there's a snag with large files and fast collaboration, which is one area where Dropbox outshines it.
Dropbox's LAN Sync feature lets you transfer files within a local network and zip them from computer to computer without uploading and downloading delays. Integrate Dropbox with Gmail, and sharing becomes seamless. Here’s how to connect and use it within Gmail.
How to connect Dropbox with Gmail and share files quickly
With the add-on, you can attach files to your Dropbox account straight to Gmail. Technically, you’re not inserting the file but a link to its location. It’s a great feature, considering Gmail has an attachment size limit of 25MB each.
The add-on is available on the Google Workspace Marketplace. After installation, it appears on the Gmail browser version for PCs. It will also appear on the mobile app for Android and iOS devices as long as you’re logged into the same account used to install it on your PC browser.
Note: Dropbox has ended support for the add-on since 2021. While it's still available for installation, it will no longer receive updates, bug fixes, and technical assistance.
Follow the steps below to integrate it with Gmail and use it.
Inserting Dropbox files as attachments in Gmail (PC version)
- From your preferred PC browser, go to gmail.com and log in to your account if you haven’t already. Then click + in the left sidebar to get add-ons. This action opens the Google Workspace Marketplace.
- Use its search bar to find Dropbox for Gmail. When you see it in the results, click it. Then click Install. You’ll need to sign in to your account for authentication. When the installation is complete, Dropbox’s icon appears in the left sidebar with others.
- Click Compose in the top right corner to begin a new email. You may also perform these steps for old emails you want to reply to.
- In the New Message window, click the Dropbox icon. If you don’t see it, click the three-dot icon and select Add Dropbox files to Gmail.
- Choose the file you want to attach to your email in the pop-up window. It will appear within the body of your email as a link preview.
Inserting Dropbox files as attachments in Gmail (mobile version)
- Open the Gmail app. Tap Compose in the bottom right corner to begin a new email. You may also apply these steps to old emails you want to reply to.
- Tap the three-dot icon in the top right corner. Then select Insert from Dropbox from the dropdown options.
- Choose a file to insert it in your email.
How to save Gmail attachments to the Dropbox add-on
Besides letting you insert large attachments to Gmail, the Dropbox add-on can scan emails for attachments for quick saving. This way, you don’t need to download them first before uploading them to Dropbox or resending them to other email addresses. Here’s how to use this feature:
Saving Gmail attachments to the Dropbox add-on (PC version)
- Open an email with attachments on gmail.com. Then click the Dropbox icon in the left sidebar to open the add-on.
- The add-on automatically detects the attachment. Click it to access pre-save options. Rename it if you want, and select the folders in which you want to store it. When you’re done, click Save.
Saving Gmail attachments to the Dropbox add-on (mobile version)
- Launch the Gmail app on your phone or tablet and open any email with attachments. You should see Available add-ons at the bottom of the email. Tap the Dropbox icon.
- The add-on automatically detects the attachments. Tap it to access pre-save options.
- Rename the attachment if you want and select the folder you want to store it in. When you’re done, tap Save.
Experience effortless email management within Gmail
Dropbox reduces the time it takes you to download and share attachments. More importantly, it bypasses Google’s limitations on file sizes. If you want more out of your emailing experience, there are more add-ons on the Workspace Marketplace to test. With Lucidchart, you can add diagrams, from concept maps to user personas and more. On the other hand, Grammarly improves your writing with an AI-powered assistant.
