{"id":14522,"date":"2025-09-30T19:05:00","date_gmt":"2025-09-30T19:05:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.o365cloudexperts.com\/blog\/?p=14522"},"modified":"2025-11-26T11:35:20","modified_gmt":"2025-11-26T11:35:20","slug":"how-to-sync-microsoft-onedrive-to-google-drive","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.o365cloudexperts.com\/blog\/how-to-sync-microsoft-onedrive-to-google-drive\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Sync Microsoft OneDrive with Google Drive"},"content":{"rendered":"

When it comes to cloud storage, Microsoft and Google are two of the strongest contenders. Add Dropbox<\/a> to it, and the entire cloud storage market is consumed by these major players.<\/p>\n

If you are looking for cloud storage options, OneDrive vs Google<\/a> debate must have struck you at least once. We agree, sometimes it can be difficult to decide between the two cloud storage providers. However, what if we told you that you can use both storage solutions without any extra effort? What if you could use both Microsoft OneDrive as well as Google Drive to simultaneously backup your files at once in both places?<\/p>\n

If you are wondering, then yes, it is certainly possible to do that with the help of Microsoft Power Automate. Keep reading this article to know how to sync OneDrive and Google Drive.<\/p>\n

Create Folders for Synchronizing Files<\/h2>\n

First, you must start by creating folders on both your Microsoft OneDrive and Google Drive. Those folders shall contain the files you would be synchronizing from OneDrive to Google Drive; while this step is not necessary, we suggest you perform it nevertheless as it helps keep your files organized. Here, we have created two folders titled \u2018Google Drive Sync\u2019 for our Microsoft OneDrive folder and \u2018OneDrive Sync Folder\u2019 for our Google Drive account.<\/p>\n

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Navigate to Power Automate<\/h2>\n

After having created the folders on both platforms, click on the \u2018All apps\u2019 option from the dropdown menu that appears once you click the app launcher (the nine-dot figure) and click on \u2018Power Automate.\u2019<\/p>\n

\"Image<\/p>\n

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Select the Correct Flow Template<\/h2>\n

Power Automate works based on templates which are sets of instructions that when put together tell the program the tasks to be performed and the order in which they must be performed.<\/p>\n

\"Image<\/p>\n

Type in \u201cOneDrive to Google Drive\u201d in the search field and click the first option that comes up in the search results. The automated template is titled, \u201cSync new OneDrive Files to Google Drive Files.\u201d<\/p>\n

Log-in to your OneDrive and Google Drive Accounts<\/h2>\n

While you are already logged in to your Microsoft Outlook (or Hotmail) account, you will need to retype the password of your OneDrive (or Outlook or Hotmail) account as well as log in to your Gmail account. Once you have logged in to both accounts, you shall see green ticks next to your emails as seen in the picture below. Click \u2018Continue.\u2019<\/p>\n

\"how<\/p>\n

Choose Your Folder Paths<\/h2>\n

The next step is to connect the correct folders between Microsoft OneDrive and Google Drive. If you created the folders in the first step, in this step you shall have the option to choose those. Click on the folder icon for \u2018OneDrive folder,\u2019 click the \u2018>\u2019 beside \u2018root,\u2019 and select \u2018Google Drive Sync.\u2019 We have selected that because we created that folder to contain all the files that would be simultaneously synchronized between Google Drive and OneDrive. Your folder name may differ.<\/p>\n

Coming to the Google Drive folder path, click on the folder icon, click the \u2018>\u2019 beside the \u2018GoogleDrive,\u2019 and select the \u2018OneDrive Sync Folder\u2019 or whatever folder you created for the synchronization process. Click on \u2018Create\u2019 once done.<\/p>\n

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Test Your Newly Created Flow<\/h2>\n

Your Flow to automate the synchronization between your Microsoft OneDrive and Google Drive has been created. Now, you must test the Flow to ensure that it is working.<\/p>\n

After the creation of the Flow, you would be redirected to a screen that shows the details of the Flow including the folders it synchronizes, the date and time of when the Flow was created, and other details. To test your Flow, click \u2018Edit.\u2019<\/p>\n

\"Test<\/p>\n

You will then be redirected to a page where you will need to input the settings for both OneDrive and Google Drive. Ensure that you have selected the respective folders for both like we have selected \u2018Google Drive Sync\u2019 for OneDrive\u2019s folder and \u2018OneDrive Sync Folder\u2019 for Google Drive. Leave the settings for Google Drive as they are and change the \u2018Infer Content Type\u2019 to \u2018Yes\u2019 for OneDrive. If you cannot see the \u2018Infer Content Type\u2019 setting for OneDrive, click on \u2018Show Advanced Options\u2019 and it will appear then.<\/p>\n

\"Test
\nNow click on the \u2018Test\u2019 option and select \u2018I\u2019ll perform the trigger action.\u2019 Then click on Save and Test. If you did everything correctly, you would see a blank screen that asks you to add files to your OneDrive folder.<\/p>\n

\"Test<\/p>\n

We go back to our OneDrive sync folder and add a file to test it out. Once that is done, we see the status of our box change to notify us that our Flow is running successfully. Do note that the OneDrive sync speed depends on your internet connection.<\/p>\n

\"Syncing
\nAlternatively, if you go back to your Google Drive folder titled, \u2018OneDrive Sync Folder\u2019 or whatever name you picked, you will find the same file uploaded there. And that\u2019s it! You are done. From this point onward, whenever you upload a file to your Microsoft OneDrive<\/a>, your Google Drive will be automatically synchronized if you upload files to the same folders which you selected for the synchronization process. For any reason, if you find your OneDrive not synchronizing, just go through the steps again and see where you went wrong.<\/p>\n

Transfer OneDrive Files to Google Drive Without Downloading<\/h2>\n

You can transfer files from OneDrive to Google Drive on a Windows PC using their desktop apps, without needing to download or upload files manually. This method relies on local syncing through Windows Explorer and is best suited for straightforward, one-time transfers.<\/p>\n

How to Transfer Files Using Windows Explorer <\/b><\/p>\n

    \n
  1. Install Both Desktop Applications <\/b>\n

    Install the official OneDrive and Google Drive desktop apps on your PC and sign in to each.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

  2. Open File Locations Side by Side <\/b>\n

    Open Windows Explorer and navigate to the OneDrive and Google Drive folders in separate windows or panes.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

  3. Drag and Drop Files Between Folders <\/b>\n

    Locate the files or folders in OneDrive and drag them into the Google Drive folder. The Google Drive app will automatically sync them to the cloud.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
    Advantages<\/strong><\/td>\nDisadvantages<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Uses built-in sync for automation<\/td>\nRequires local storage on your PC<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    No browser or third-party tools<\/td>\nConsumes bandwidth during sync<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Simple drag-and-drop process<\/td>\nOnly works on Windows systems<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    <\/td>\nNo support for automatic incremental sync (manual transfer only)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    <\/td>\nRelies on both apps functioning and syncing correctly<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

    This approach is efficient for small or occasional transfers but may not be ideal for large-scale or ongoing Google Drive to OneDrive sync needs.<\/p>\n

    Best Third-Party Tools for OneDrive and Google Drive Sync<\/h2>\n

    For users exploring self-managed sync options between cloud platforms like OneDrive and Google Drive, a few third-party tools are available that may address basic or specialized needs. Those specifically looking into how to sync OneDrive to Google Drive may find these tools useful in certain contexts, though it is important to assess their scope and limitations before relying on them for broader or business-critical migrations.<\/p>\n

    MultCloud supports over ten sync modes and includes a free tier capped at 30GB per month, though it may require some technical familiarity. CBackup focuses on scheduled sync and backup, with a simpler setup suitable for individual users. These tools may serve limited needs but are not typically recommended for complex or large-scale requirements.<\/p>\n

    Common Sync Issues and How to Fix Them<\/h2>\n

    Syncing files between cloud storage services like OneDrive and Google Drive is generally smooth, but occasional issues can cause delays, errors, or data mismatches. If you’re looking for how to sync Google Drive with OneDrive, this quick guide covers common issues and how to fix them without third-party tools or paid support.<\/p>\n

    1. OneDrive Sync Problems <\/b><\/p>\n

    When OneDrive encounters issues, users might notice a red or white X over the OneDrive icon in the system tray. Sync may appear stuck with a persistent \u201cProcessing changes\u201d message, and in some cases, files placed in the synced folder fail to upload to the cloud altogether.<\/p>\n

    How to Fix: <\/b><\/p>\n

      \n
    1. Reset OneDrive:<\/strong> Press Win + R, enter: %localappdata%\\Microsoft\\OneDrive\\onedrive.exe \/reset<\/strong>
      \nThen restart OneDrive from the Start menu.<\/li>\n
    2. Pause and Resume Sync:<\/strong> Right-click the OneDrive icon > Pause syncing > Wait 2 hours > Resume.<\/li>\n
    3. Close Open Files:<\/strong> Ensure files in Office apps (like Word or Excel) are closed before syncing.<\/li>\n
    4. Re-link Your Account:<\/strong> Go to OneDrive Settings > Account > Unlink this PC > Sign in again.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

      2. Google Drive Sync Problems<\/b><\/p>\n

      Google Drive sync errors often show up as a never-ending \u201cSync pending\u201d status. Even after waiting, changes made locally may not reflect online, and \u201cCouldn\u2019t sync\u201d error messages might continue to appear despite repeated attempts.<\/p>\n

      How to Fix: <\/b><\/p>\n

        \n
      1. Clear the Cache:<\/strong> Google Drive for Desktop > Settings > Preferences > Clear cached data<\/li>\n
      2. Reinstall the App:<\/strong> Uninstall from Control Panel > Download and install the latest version from Google<\/li>\n
      3. Check File Permissions:<\/strong> Right-click a file > Properties > Ensure it\u2019s not set to Read-Only<\/li>\n
      4. Switch Sync Modes:<\/strong> In Preferences, try switching from Stream mode to Mirror mode or vice versa.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

        3. Cross-Cloud Sync Conflicts <\/b><\/p>\n

        Conflicts between OneDrive and Google Drive typically result in duplicate files labeled as \u201cconflicted copy\u201d or other versions. Files may not match across platforms due to inconsistent sync timing, especially if edits occur in both locations without proper coordination.<\/p>\n

        How to Fix: <\/b><\/p>\n

          \n
        1. Keep Sync Folders Separate:<\/strong> Avoid syncing the same folder with both services. Use distinct paths like \/OneDrive\/Files and \/Google Drive\/Files.<\/li>\n
        2. Manually Resolve Conflicts:<\/strong> Delete duplicates and upload the correct version only once.<\/li>\n
        3. Avoid Simultaneous Editing:<\/strong> Don\u2019t edit files across both platforms at the same time. Close them on one service before accessing from another.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

          Tips to Prevent Future Issues<\/h3>\n

          Keeping your sync tools updated can help avoid many common problems. You can check for updates in the OneDrive app under Settings > About > Update, and in Google Drive under Help > Check for updates. It’s also important to keep an eye on your storage limits. In OneDrive, this can be done through your account settings, while Google Drive users can use the Storage Manager to monitor usage. Finally, when syncing large files, using a wired internet connection is recommended to reduce the risk of interrupted or incomplete uploads.<\/p>\n

          Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<\/h2>\n
            \n
          1. \n

            Can I sync my OneDrive to Google Drive?<\/h3>\n

            While there\u2019s no built-in integration between the two, you can use Microsoft Power Automate to create simple workflows that sync files between OneDrive and Google Drive. Another option is to sync both accounts to your desktop and manually move files between their folders for automatic upload.<\/li>\n

          2. \n

            How do I automatically sync files between Google Drive and OneDrive?<\/h3>\n

            Power Automate lets you create flows that transfer files based on triggers. Alternatively, sync both services to your PC and drag files between their local folders for automatic cloud uploads.<\/li>\n

          3. \n

            Can I merge Google Drive and OneDrive into one account?<\/h3>\n

            No, but you can manage both using File Explorer by syncing them locally. Each service appears as a separate folder, allowing easy access and transfers.<\/li>\n

          4. \n

            How do I sync Microsoft files like Word or Excel to Google Drive?<\/h3>\n

            Save Office files to your synced Google Drive folder. To edit them in Drive, open them with Google Docs or Sheets, which may convert them to a compatible format.<\/li>\n

          5. \n

            What\u2019s the easiest way to transfer files from OneDrive to Google Drive?<\/h3>\n

            Sync both services to your PC and drag files from the OneDrive folder into the Google Drive folder. The upload happens automatically\u2014no downloads needed.<\/li>\n

          6. \n

            Is syncing Google Drive to OneDrive possible?<\/h3>\n

            Yes. You can use Power Automate to create workflows that copy files from Google Drive to OneDrive, or move them manually between synced folders.<\/li>\n

          7. \n

            How do I move files from Google Drive to OneDrive?<\/h3>\n

            Either download from Google Drive and upload to OneDrive, or use Power Automate to automate the transfer when files are added to a specific folder.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

            Implement Microsoft Solutions Effectively with Apps4Rent<\/h2>\n

            If you’re looking to migrate to Office 365, Apps4Rent offers expert Office 365 migration services<\/a> to ensure a smooth transition. We specialize in helping businesses switch to Office 365 from various platforms, including GoDaddy to Office 365 migration<\/a>, which simplifies the process and lets you take full advantage of Microsoft 365’s capabilities.<\/p>\n

            As a Microsoft Solutions Partner,<\/b> Apps4Rent can assist businesses in choosing ideal Microsoft 365\/ Office 365 plans<\/a> and can help in customizing Microsoft Power Automate according to your business requirements. Contact our Microsoft- certified experts, available 24\/7 via phone, chat, and email for assistance.
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