Sending email attachments is a common practice for sharing files and documents. However, different email providers impose various limitations on attachment sizes.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the attachment limits for Hotmail in 2017 and discuss the attachment size limits for popular email services such as Outlook, Gmail, Yahoo, Office 365, and Mac.
Understanding these limitations will help you effectively manage your file sharing needs.
Hotmail Attachment Limit in 2017
In 2017, Hotmail (which has since transitioned to Outlook.com) had a file attachment limit of 10 MB for individual attachments.
This means you could not send a single file larger than 10 MB. If you needed to send larger files, you had to explore alternative methods such as compressing files or using cloud storage services.
Attachment Size Limits in Outlook
Outlook, the successor to Hotmail, has increased the attachment size limit over the years. Currently, the attachment size limit for Outlook.com is 20 MB for individual attachments.
However, it’s worth noting that some email providers may have stricter limits on the receiving end, which could affect the successful delivery of larger attachments.
Attachment Size Limits in Gmail
Gmail, one of the most popular email providers, allows attachments of up to 25 MB in size. However, similar to Outlook, the recipient’s email provider may impose stricter limits, so it’s essential to consider the limitations on the receiving end as well.
Attachment Size Limits in Yahoo Mail
Yahoo Mail, another widely used email service, offers a maximum attachment size of 25 MB. Like other providers, it’s important to consider the recipient’s email service to ensure successful delivery.
Attachment Size Limits in Office 365
Office 365, the cloud-based suite of productivity tools by Microsoft, provides more generous attachment size limits. With Office 365, you can send attachments up to 150 MB in size. However, this limit is subject to the recipient’s email provider restrictions.
Attachment Size Limits on Mac Mail
The Mail app on Mac, commonly referred to as Mac Mail, does not have a specific attachment size limit.
However, the limit will be determined by your email provider’s restrictions. Therefore, it’s crucial to check the attachment size limits imposed by your specific email service.
Overcoming Attachment Size Limitations
When you encounter attachment size limitations, there are alternative methods to consider:
- Compression: Compressing files into ZIP or RAR archives can help reduce their size and allow you to send larger attachments. However, the recipient must have the appropriate software to extract the files.
- Cloud Storage: Utilize cloud storage services like Google Drive, OneDrive, or Dropbox to upload files and share download links with recipients. This way, you can bypass attachment size limits altogether.
- File Transfer Services: Consider using file transfer services specifically designed for sharing large files, such as WeTransfer or SendSpace. These services allow you to upload files and generate download links that can be shared with the recipient.
Conclusion
Understanding attachment size limits is crucial when sending files via email. While Hotmail had a 10 MB attachment limit in 2017, email providers like Outlook, Gmail, Yahoo, Office 365, and Mac Mail have different limitations today.
By being aware of these limits, you can explore alternative methods like compression, cloud storage, or file transfer services to effectively share larger files. Always consider the limitations imposed by the recipient’s email service to ensure successful delivery.
