Google Drive for desktop

by Google · Cloud sync & remote access

FreemiumWindowsMac

Sync and stream Google Drive files from File Explorer or Finder.

Official download from google.com (opens in a new tab)

Opens google.com, Google's own site. No mirror, no bundle.

Overview

What is Google Drive for desktop?

Drive for desktop shows your Google Drive as a drive letter or Finder location and can back up folders and photos. Accounts get free storage shared with Gmail and Photos; more is paid.

Key features

  • Stream or mirror files
  • Folder and photo backup
  • Works in File Explorer and Finder
  • Shared drives for teams

Best for

  • Google Workspace users
  • Backing up documents
  • Opening Drive files offline

Included in starter kits

Install

How to install Google Drive for desktop

  1. 1Open the official Google Drive for desktop download page on google.com.
  2. 2Pick the build for your system (Windows, Mac; check x64, ARM or Apple silicon where offered).
  3. 3Run the installer and read each screen; decline anything you did not ask for.
  4. 4Keep it updated from the app's own updater or your package manager.

Install from the command line

  • Windows · winget

    winget install --id Google.GoogleDrive -e --source winget

  • Mac · Homebrew

    brew install --cask google-drive

Package IDs checked against the public winget, Homebrew and Flathub repositories on 1 Nov 2026. Build a script for several apps.

Safety

Download Google Drive for desktop safely

  • Check the domain

    The real download lives on google.com. Look-alike domains and search ads are the most common trap.

  • Skip mirrors

    Download portals can wrap installers in adware or old versions. You never need them for this app.

  • Verify if you can

    If the publisher lists a checksum, compare it with our in-browser checker before running the file.

  • Watch the installer

    Untick extras, browser changes or trials you did not ask for.

Open the checksum checker

Alternatives

Google Drive for desktop alternatives

Other cloud sync & remote access apps, closest platform match first.

All cloud & remote

FAQ

Google Drive for desktop questions

Where can I download Google Drive for desktop safely?

Download Google Drive for desktop only from Google's official site at google.com. Avoid mirror and "download portal" sites, which can bundle extra software with the installer.

Is Google Drive for desktop free?

Google Drive for desktop has a free plan with limits, and paid plans or upgrades for more features. Check google.com for current pricing.

Does Google Drive for desktop work on Windows and Mac?

Google Drive for desktop is available for Windows, Mac. Check Google's download page for exact system requirements and whether your processor (x64, ARM or Apple silicon) is supported.

Can I install Google Drive for desktop from the command line?

Yes, with winget on Windows (winget install --id Google.GoogleDrive -e); Homebrew on Mac (brew install --cask google-drive). Package managers fetch the publisher's files and make updates easy.

What are good alternatives to Google Drive for desktop?

See the alternatives section on this page and the full cloud sync & remote access list on AltFTool, which shows each app's licence and platforms side by side.