How to Transfer Files from OneDrive to Google Drive: Proven Step-by-Step Methods

As a cloud storage expert with years of experience helping users and teams migrate data securely, I recommend these reliable methods to move files from Microsoft OneDrive (part of Microsoft 365) to Google Drive (from Google Workspace). Both are powerful cloud repositories for documents, photos, and collaboration.

Sometimes, switching services requires transferring large amounts of data efficiently while minimizing downtime and errors. Below, I'll outline the best approaches, from simple manual transfers to automated tools.

How to Move Files from OneDrive to Google Drive

Here are four proven methods:

1. Download from OneDrive and upload to Google Drive
2. Drag and drop files
3. Use a third-party service
4. Leverage Google Drive's sharing tool (with caveats)

1. Download from OneDrive and Upload to Google Drive

This manual method works best for smaller file sets.

1. Visit OneDrive.com and sign in.
2. Select files or folders, then click Download. Files download as a ZIP—extract them on your computer.
3. Go to Google Drive, sign in, click the New button > File upload (or Folder upload), and select your files.

Tip: Monitor upload progress; unstable connections may require restarts. Ideal for under 100 files.

2. Drag and Drop (Desktop Sync Required)

Quick for Windows users with OneDrive synced locally.

1. Ensure OneDrive is installed and synced on your Windows PC (search for it in File Explorer).
2. Open Google Drive in a browser and navigate to your desired folder.
3. Drag files/folders from File Explorer's OneDrive section directly into the browser window.

A confirmation appears when complete. User-friendly but time-intensive for large volumes.

3. Use a Third-Party Service

For seamless, automated transfers without downloads, trusted tools like these centralize your clouds:

• MultCloud
• CloudFuze
• Air Explorer

Sign up, connect both accounts, select source (OneDrive) and destination (Google Drive), then transfer. Paid plans offer speed and security—worth it for bulk migrations.

4. Google Drive's Built-in Sharing (Indirect Method)

Note: This assumes temporary access via sharing. Best for Google Drive to other services, but adaptable.

1. In OneDrive, select files/folders and generate a shareable link.
2. In Google Drive, use Shared with me to access, then move to My Drive.
3. Revoke OneDrive share afterward for security.

Bottom Line

Choose based on file volume: manual for small sets, third-party for enterprise-scale. Always verify transfers and use strong authentication.

How to Transfer Photos from OneDrive to Google Drive

1. Download from OneDrive: Sign in, select Photos, click Download, extract ZIP.
2. Upload to Google Drive: Click New > Folder upload, select extracted photos.

Can You Merge OneDrive and Google Drive?

Yes, using third-party sync tools. Connect via cloud sync (e.g., select Google Drive as source, OneDrive as destination, hit Sync now). Changes sync automatically—no more manual moves.