To upload files to Google Drive, use New > File upload on a computer or the Drive app on your phone. To download, open the file’s menu and choose Download; on iPhone and iPad, you can also save a copy to the Files app. Uploads use Drive storage, and downloads can be blocked by file permissions or device settings.
How do I upload files to Google Drive?
Choose the workflow for your device. On a computer, the website supports individual files and folders; Drive for desktop is another option for syncing items from a computer. On Android and iPhone or iPad, upload from the Drive app.
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On a computer using the website
- Go to drive.google.com and sign in.
- Select New, then choose File upload or Folder upload.
- Select the file or folder on your computer. You can also open or create a Drive folder and drag files or folders into it.
If you use Drive for desktop, move files into the Google Drive folder on your computer; they will upload to Drive. Uploading consumes Drive storage even if the destination folder belongs to someone else. If a file with the same name already exists, Drive may upload the new one as a revision, and you can choose to keep both files. Google notes that an upload’s time may be used as its creation time, while its modification time reflects the local source.
On Android
- Open the Google Drive app and tap New, then Upload.
- Find and select the files to upload. They appear in My Drive until you move them to another folder.
To avoid using mobile data, open Drive settings and turn on Transfer files only over Wi-Fi. Google says this setting appears when the device can use mobile data or a network connection. See Google’s Android upload instructions.
#1 Best Overall
- USB-C 2-in-1 storage OTG: The Lexar JumpDrive Dual Drive D40E features USB Type-A and Type-C connectors in a slim, portable form factor for easy device compatibility
- Transfer speeds up to 100MB/s: Based on internal testing, performance may vary depending upon the host device, interface, and usage conditions. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes
- Plug and Play: Widely compatible with USB Type-C smartphones, tablets, laptops, Macs, and traditional Type-A devices, no software installation required. The 360° swivel design allows for easy switching between connectors without the hassle of losing a cap
- Durable & Compact: The Lexar D40E USB memory stick features a metal enclosure, withstands temperatures from 0° to 50° C (32°F to 122°F), and is lightweight at 26g with dimensions of 70.4 x 16.9 x 11.7mm
- Security & Warranty: Securely protects files using an advanced security software solution with 256-bit AES encryption. Backed by a Lexar 3-year limited warranty
On iPhone or iPad
- Open Drive and tap Add, then File upload.
- Select the files. Use Location to choose a destination folder; you can also change File Name.
- Tap Upload.
The destination picker is part of this upload flow. See Google’s iPhone and iPad upload instructions.
How do I download a file from Google Drive?
On a computer
- Go to drive.google.com and select the file. To select multiple files, hold Command on Mac or Ctrl on Windows while selecting.
- Right-click and choose Download.
Google says files cannot be dragged directly from Drive to the desktop. For a Google Docs, Sheets, or Slides file that you want in another format, open it and choose File > Download, then select a format offered for that file, such as PDF, DOCX, PPTX, or JPEG.
Rank #2
- 2 in 1: USB C + USB 3.0, 32GB usb c flash drive has dual ports, usb 3.0 port is applied to all devices which have usb 3.0 interface and usb c port is widely used in all Android smartphones with OTG function
- High Speed USB 3.0: Read speed up to 90 MB/s, Write speed up to 30 MB/s, the speed of USB 3.0 interface is faster than USB 2.0, save time to wait, increases work productivity. Note: Speed will be limited if you use the USB key in the USB 2.0 interface
- Large Compatibility: The USB 3.0 Connector is compatible with USB 3.0 & USB 2.0 backward USB 1.1 devices, such as Laptop, Desktop, Car Audio, Tablet, TV, Speakers, Projector. USB-C port is compatible with all Android Smartphones
- Expand Storage: Good performance in storing, transferring and sharing digital data with families, friends, colleagues, customers. It can expand the capacity of smartphone, you can watch movies or share pictures when you go on vacation with your family
- Note: Make sure your smartphone is equipped with OTG function and need to open OTG function in Settings when you plug memory stick, then you can transfer easily data bewteen different devices
On Android
In the Drive app, tap More beside the file and select Download. The option is unavailable when Android’s Data Saver is turned on. See Google’s Android download instructions.
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On iPhone or iPad
Tap More beside the file. Choose Download for a local copy, or select Open in > Save to Files and choose a location. For an image or video, use Send a copy, then choose Save image or Save video to put it in Photos. You can also open a file directly in another app. See Google’s iPhone and iPad download instructions.
Rank #3
- USB-C 2-in-1 storage OTG: The Lexar JumpDrive Dual Drive D40E features USB Type-A and Type-C connectors in a slim, portable form factor for easy device compatibility
- Transfer speeds up to 100MB/s: Based on internal testing, performance may vary depending upon the host device, interface, and usage conditions. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes
- Plug and Play: Widely compatible with USB Type-C smartphones, tablets, laptops, Macs, and traditional Type-A devices, no software installation required. The 360° swivel design allows for easy switching between connectors without the hassle of losing a cap
- Durable & Compact: The Lexar D40E USB memory stick features a metal enclosure, withstands temperatures from 0° to 50° C (32°F to 122°F), and is lightweight at 26g with dimensions of 70.4 x 16.9 x 11.7mm
- Security & Warranty: Securely protects files using an advanced security software solution with 256-bit AES encryption. Backed by a Lexar 3-year limited warranty
What storage and file-size limits should I know?
Uploads use Drive storage. Google’s published file guidance lists these limits for the specified cases; the actual upload also depends on having enough available storage:
| File type or conversion | Published limit |
|---|---|
| Text document converted to Google Docs | 50 MB |
| Presentation converted to Google Slides | 100 MB |
| Other files | Up to 5 TB, subject to available Drive storage |
These figures are from Google’s file-size guidance, which does not state a publication year. Spreadsheet and other Google-editor limits differ, so check the page for the relevant format rather than applying these examples to every file.
Rank #4
- 2-in-1 Dual Design: Features both USB-C and USB-A connectors, making it compatible with phones, tablets, MacBooks, PCs, and laptops-no adapter needed
- Wide Compatibility: Works seamlessly with USB A and USB C devices, ensuring reliable file transfers across smartphones, computers, and more
- Ample Storage Options: Available in 16GB/32GB/64GB/128GB providing plenty of space for photos, videos, music, and documents
- Portable & Lightweight: Compact and durable design for travel, school, or daily use-take your files anywhere
- Plug-and-Play Convenience: No software or drivers required; simply insert into USB-C or USB-A ports and start transferring files instantly
What to check if an upload or download fails
Uploads
- Check that the destination has enough available Drive storage.
- For video upload or playback problems, check connection stability and file size, and try another upload route or browser.
- Check the file format, browser extensions, cookies, and whether the app or browser needs an update. These are troubleshooting checks, not guaranteed fixes.
Google says Drive video playback is capped at 1920 × 1080, and playback quality can depend on internet quality and speed. See Google’s video upload and playback guidance.
Downloads
- If the file owner has disabled downloading, copying, or printing for viewers or commenters, you may not be able to download it from the web. Ask the owner for access or another copy.
- If a web download fails, Google says blocked third-party cookies can be a cause. Allow cookies for Drive or check whether an extension is interfering.
- On Android, turn off Data Saver if the Drive app does not offer the Download option.
These download restrictions and browser checks are described in Google’s desktop download guidance and its Android guidance.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- USB-C STORAGE ON THE GO: This sleek drive is supported by Samsung NAND flash and is incredibly compact to fit in the palm of your hand; Count on reliable performance and fast transfer speeds while staying compact
- PERFORMANCE WITH SPEED: No need to choose between performance and reliability; Experience a fast, powerful flash drive that transfers 4GB files in just 11 seconds with up to 400MB/s USB 3.2 Gen 1 read speeds and is backward compatible with USB 3.0/2.0
- MODERN MEETS ICONIC: The ultra-sleek USB-C drive looks as good as it performs; Featuring a reversible plug, the Type-C inserts into your devices seamlessly every time; Transfer large files with style and ease
- ALWAYS CONNECTED: USB-C is compatible across devices, including laptops, tablets, phones and cameras, with enough space for 63,730 photos or maximum 12 hours of 4K video; With up to 256GB of storage space, this pocket-sized thumb drive comes in handy wherever you go
- TOUGH & TRUSTED: Files stay secure, no matter the terrain; Samsung's flash memory technology makes the Type-C a trustworthy drive to store your valuable data; It's waterproof, shock-proof, magnet-proof, temperature-proof, and X-ray-proof body, plus it's backed by a 5-year limited warranty
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