How to Download Emails from Gmail in Bulk – Quick Backup & Export Methods

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  • Updated On:
    July 26th, 2025
  • Read Time:
    6 minutes

Summary: With the rise in data breaches, hacking, and unauthorized access, Gmail accounts have become a target. Therefore, as a preventive step users often choose to download emails from Gmail in bulk. But how to download emails from Gmail in bulk is the right question to ask. This blog will answer all the queries regarding this topic. For a cost-effective approach, we have mentioned manual options. And, for accuracy and data reliability, we recommend using the Gmail Backup Tool. Now, to know about the methods involved, read this blog carefully.

Why Download All Gmail Emails?

Downloading emails from Gmail ensures more control over the data and serves as an offline backup. Now, before looking at how to download emails from Gmail in bulk,  look it is beneficial: 

  • Users choose to download all emails from Gmail as a secure backup. This becomes helpful in case the email account gets hacked or lost.
  • Also, with a backup, users can easily access them offline to review, read, or search email messages. 
  • When switching to a different email service, transferring the emails becomes easy when having a backup.
  • In case the Gmail inbox storage is full, downloading the emails locally can free up space on the server. 
  • By downloading the emails locally, users can categorize and organize them as per their needs. 

How to Download Emails from Gmail in Bulk?

After understanding the benefits of downloading the emails, let us now look at the methods to do it. There are both manual and automated methods available. User can choose according to their requirements.

Manual Method 01: Download All Gmail Emails to Computer in Bulk

This method uses Google Takeout. With Google Takeout, users can download a copy of their Gmail email data, including the attachments. 

These are the steps to proceed with the method:

  1. First, visit Google Takeout and log in with your Gmail account.
  2. Now, Deselect All Google Services and then check the Mail checkbox.
  3. Then, click on All Mail data included and tap Ok.
  4. Afterwards, click on the Next Step and choose the Delivery Method, Export Frequency, and File Type & Size.
  5. After that, click on the Create Export button. 
  6. Once the export process is completed, click on the download link in your email.
  7. Your emails will be downloaded in the MBOX format. 

Limitations: Downloading emails from a large Gmail account will include a long wait time. Also, the download link sent to the email is temporary and will expire in 7 days. Moreover, the resultant MBOX file will be opened up in a compatible email client only. 

Manual Method 02: Download All the Emails from Gmail 

This method uses the Mozilla Thunderbird email client to answer how to download emails from Gmail in bulk. The Thunderbird application will connect to the Gmail account using IMAP. And then, it will save emails in either EML or MBOX. 

Use the steps given below to start downloading the emails in bulk: 

Step 1: Add Gmail Account to Thunderbird

  1. To start with, log in to your Gmail account and head to Settings.
  2. Then, click on See all settings > Forwarding and POP/IMAP tab.
  3. Next, under the IMAP Access section, click on Enable IMAP > Save Changes.
  4. Now, open Thunderbird and navigate to File > New > Existing Mail Account.
  5. Then, enter Gmail Name, Email ID, and Password.
  6. Then, click on Done to complete the process.

Step 2: Export Gmail Emails in Bulk

  1. In Thunderbird, go to Menu > Add-ons & Themes > Search and install ImportExportTools NG
  2. Now, click Add to Thunderbird and restart the Thunderbird application.
  3. Then, select the preferred Gmail folder and right-click on it.
  4. After that, choose ImportExportTools NG > Export all messages in the folder > EML Format.
  5. At last, choose the destination to save the file. 

Limitations: Syncing large mailboxes can consume a lot of time. Also, this process requires technical knowledge about the IMAP configurations. Moreover, it involves technical steps that require effort. 

An Automated Tool to Download Emails from Gmail in Bulk

Wondering how to download emails from Gmail in bulk? With the Gmail Backup Tool, users gain a convenient way to secure their Gmail data. The tool backs up the email data from various folders, including Inbox, Sent, and Drafts. Also, it exports emails to different file formats and email platforms. Its advanced features include duplicate prevention, smart email filtering, and attachment control. Moreover, the tool maintains data integrity during the entire conversion process. 

Steps to start downloading emails from Gmail in bulk:

  1. To begin with, download and open the tool.
  2. After that, select the Gmail (Backup Mails only) option and sign in with your Gmail account credentials.
  3. Now, pick the email folders that you wish to export. Then, click on Next to proceed.
  4. Choose to Save in File Format, then select the desired file format, like CSV, PDF, etc.
  5. Apply any extra features, such as excluding attachments, and then click Next.
  6. Then, press Save Path to set the destination folder.
  7. Finally, click on the Download button to start the process. 

Conclusion

Downloading Gmail emails in bulk improves Gmail storage space and simplifies email management. Manual options like using Google Takeout and the Thunderbird email client do help. But the expert-recommended Gmail Backup Tool is a more reliable and secure option. This tool offers advanced functionalities and ensures a smooth, efficient, and hassle-free backup experience. For users looking for answers on how to download emails from Gmail in bulk, this tool is the best choice.

You May Also Read: Save Gmail Emails to Hard Drive

Frequently Asked Questions

Q- Can I download all of my Gmail emails at once?

Ans- Yes. You can download all Gmail emails at once using Google Takeout. You need to log in to Google Takeout using your Gmail account credentials and then select Mail. This will download all the mail data in a MBOX file format. This resultant MBOX file will be sent to your email ID.

Q- Which is the best software to download or backup Gmail emails in bulk?

Ans- Using the Gmail Backup Tool, users can effectively download all the Gmail email data in bulk in one go. This tool not only backs up emails but also saves them in multiple formats and email applications. It also ensures data integrity and data reliability.

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About The Author:

Sachin Prajapati is an experienced technical content writer with a passion for simplifying complex topics. Specializing in email and cloud migration solutions, he crafts informative and reader-friendly content that empowers users to understand and manage their digital tools more effectively. His insights have been featured on several respected tech platforms, earning the trust of a wide audience.

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