Compress a video to attach in Gmail
Gmail lets you attach up to 25 MB per message. Go over that and Gmail swaps the attachment for a Google Drive link, which the recipient has to open separately and you have to share correctly. The Email preset targets 25 MB, and the MP4 output opens on Windows, Mac, iPhone and Android without extra software.
Last updated September 2026
Compress for Gmail (25 MB) →How to do it
- Open the compressor with the Email preset (25 MB target).
- Load your video and trim any dead air at the start and end.
- For clips longer than ~2 minutes, choose 720p to keep the picture clean.
- Compress and download the MP4.
- In Gmail, click the paperclip and attach the file — it should attach directly with no Drive prompt.
Tips
- The 25 MB limit covers the whole email after encoding, so the preset leaves headroom.
- Sending several videos? Each counts toward the same 25 MB — compress each to a smaller custom target.
- Recipients on other providers may have lower receive limits; 10–20 MB is safer for unknown addresses.
FAQ
What is Gmail's attachment size limit?
Gmail allows attachments up to 25 MB total per email. Larger files are offered as Google Drive links instead.
Why does my 24 MB video still trigger a Drive link?
Attachments grow by roughly a third when encoded for email, and the limit applies to the encoded message. Aim a little lower, e.g. 20 MB, if you're right on the edge.
Is the video sent anywhere during compression?
No. It's processed locally in your browser; nothing is uploaded until you attach it to your email yourself.