How to Transfer OneDrive to Google Drive in 5 ways

Before You Transfer from OneDrive to Google Drive

Before you start to transfer from OneDrive to Google Drive, it’s important to prepare properly to avoid any issues. First, check that your Google Drive has enough storage space for all the files you want to move. Next, organize your OneDrive folders—this makes the transfer cleaner and easier to track.

Also, ensure you’re signed into the correct accounts on both OneDrive and Google Drive, especially if you have multiple accounts. If you’re transferring large or important files, use a stable Wi-Fi connection to prevent interruptions. Finally, consider backing up your files beforehand for extra safety.

With that ready, here are your best options to transfer files from OneDrive to Google Drive.

1. How to Migrate OneDrive to Google Drive Without Downloading 

CBackup provides a convenient and efficient way to migrate your files from OneDrive to Google Drive, without the need for manual downloads or uploads. By linking both cloud accounts within CBackup, you can transfer files directly between OneDrive and Google Drive, saving time and avoiding local storage limits. Its user-friendly interface makes the process straightforward, even for beginners.

Additionally, CBackup supports scheduled backups, allowing you to automate syncing and keep your files regularly updated. You can also utilize its file filtering feature to select specific files or folders for transfer, ensuring you only move what you need. With these features, CBackup offers a fast, secure, and hassle-free solution for cloud storage migration.

📋 Let’s walk through the simple steps on how to transfer OneDrive files to Google Drive using this tool:

Step 1. Go to CBackup’s website, sign up for a free account, or log in if you already have one.

Step 2.  In the CBackup dashboard, navigate to "Storage." Click "Add Cloud", select OneDrive, and follow the prompts to authorize access. Then, repeat the process to add your Google Drive account.

Step 3. Click on "Backup" from the left sidebar, then choose "Backup Public Cloud to Public Cloud." Select OneDrive as the source and Google Drive as the destination.

Step 4. Select the specific files or folders from OneDrive you want to back up to Google Drive.

Step 5. Click "Start Backup" to initiate the process. CBackup will transfer your files securely to the cloud, so you don’t need to keep your device on during the transfer.

2. How to Transfer OneDrive to Google Drive Using Google Drive for Desktop 

Many users prefer using Google Drive for Desktop when they want to move OneDrive to Google Drive, as it provides a straightforward, hands-on approach. This method works by syncing both OneDrive and Google Drive to your computer, allowing you to use local storage as a bridge between the two services. One major advantage is that it doesn’t require any third-party tools or complex setups—just a basic sync and manual file transfer.

However, this method does come with a few limitations. Moving a large volume of files can be time-consuming and may use a significant amount of bandwidth during the upload and download process. Plus, because it involves manual copying, it might not be ideal if you prefer a fully automated transfer.

📋 Let’s walk through the steps to sync OneDrive to Google Drive using Google Drive for Desktop:

Step 1. Download and install Google Drive for desktop and ensure OneDrive is already set up on your computer. Sign in to both apps using your respective accounts.

Step 2. Open the OneDrive app, click the OneDrive cloud icon in the taskbar, then go to Settings > Account > Choose folders. Select the folders you want to sync and ensure they're downloaded to your local drive.

Step 3. Once signed in, Google Drive for desktop creates a folder on your PC (usually found under This PC > Google Drive). You can open it directly like a regular folder in File Explorer.

Step 4. In File Explorer, navigate to your synced OneDrive folder. Select the files or folders you want to transfer, then copy or drag and drop them into the Google Drive folder.

Step 5. Google Drive will automatically upload the transferred files. You can check the sync status by clicking the Google Drive icon in the system tray. Once complete, your files will be available in your Google Drive account online.

3. How to Sync OneDrive to Google Drive by Downloading and Uploading 

Here’s a simple way to migrate OneDrive to Google Drive: first, download your files to your computer, then upload them to Google Drive. This method works on any device with the internet and doesn’t require extra apps. It gives you full control to select and organize the files before uploading.

Make sure your computer has enough storage to hold the files temporarily. For transferring a few files or if you don’t mind some manual work, this is a reliable and straightforward way to move your files hassle-free.

📋 Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to move files from one drive to Google Drive with ease:

Step 1. Open your web browser and go to onedrive.live.com. Sign in with your Microsoft account.

Step 2. In your OneDrive files view, select the files or folders you want to move by clicking the checkboxes next to them. To select multiple items, hold down Ctrl (Windows) or Command (Mac) while clicking.

Step 3. Click the Download button in the top menu. Your files will be saved to your computer’s default Downloads folder or the location you choose.

Step 4. Next, open a new tab and go to drive.google.com. Sign in with your Google account.

Step 5. Click the + New button on the left sidebar, then select File Upload or Folder Upload depending on what you downloaded. In the file dialog, navigate to your downloaded files, select them, and click Open. Google Drive will begin uploading your files.

4. How to Move Files from OneDrive to Another Google Drive via Rclone

Rclone offers a powerful way to transfer OneDrive to Google Drive directly, without the need to download files to your computer first. This command-line tool efficiently moves data between cloud services, saving both time and bandwidth, especially useful for large volumes of files. It allows you to copy, sync, or move files with precision and supports filtering or automating tasks via scripts.

While Rclone requires some familiarity with command-line operations and setup, it provides a fast and secure solution for users comfortable with technical tools. For advanced users or those managing large cloud storage transfers, Rclone is one of the best options to reliably transfer OneDrive to Google Drive.

📋 Here’s a step-by-step tutorial to help you transfer from OneDrive to Google Drive efficiently:

Step 1. Download and install Rclone

Go to rclone.org/downloads, select your operating system, download the installer or zip file, and install Rclone by following the on-screen instructions.

Step 2. Open Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (Mac/Linux)

On Windows, press Win + R, type cmd, and hit Enter. On Mac, open Terminal from Applications > Utilities.

Step 3. Configure OneDrive remote

Type rclone config and press Enter.

• Type n and press Enter to create a new remote.
• Enter a name like OneDrive and press Enter.
• Scroll the list to find 23 / Microsoft OneDrive and enter 23, then press Enter.
• Follow the prompts to authenticate: when asked to open a URL, copy the link and open it in your browser, sign in to OneDrive, and paste the authentication code back into the terminal.
• Accept the default options by pressing Enter until the configuration is complete.

Step 4. Configure Google Drive remote

Again, run rclone config.

• Press n and Enter for a new remote.
• Enter a name like gdrive and press Enter.
• Scroll and choose 13 / Google Drive by typing 13 and pressing Enter.
• Follow similar authentication steps: open the provided URL, sign in to Google Drive, copy the code, and paste it into the terminal.
• Accept the default settings by pressing Enter until finished.

Step 5. Move files from OneDrive to Google Drive

Type the command rclone move onedrive: gdrive: and press Enter. This moves all files from your OneDrive root directory to your Google Drive root. You can replace move with copy if you want to keep the files in OneDrive.

• Wait for the process to finish. You can check progress in the terminal.

5. How to Move Files from OneDrive to Google Drive Using Power Automate 

If you want to sync OneDrive to Google Drive automatically, Microsoft Power Automate offers a handy solution. It allows you to create workflows, called "flows," that trigger actions like copying new files from OneDrive to Google Drive whenever they’re added. This saves time and eliminates manual transfers, making it ideal for users who frequently move files between these two cloud services.

However, setting up Power Automate requires a Microsoft 365 account and some familiarity with the platform. While it’s perfect for ongoing sync tasks, it may not be the best choice if you only need to transfer files once or prefer manual control.

📋 Follow this step-by-step guide on how to transfer OneDrive files to Google Drive using Microsoft Power Automate: 

Step 1. Visit https://flow.microsoft.com and sign in with your Microsoft 365 account. Click Create on the left, then select Automated Cloud Flow. Name your flow (e.g., "OneDrive to Google Drive") and pick the trigger When a file is created (OneDrive), then click Create.

Step 2. Click the folder icon next to the Folder in the trigger. Select the OneDrive folder you want to monitor for new files.

Step 3. Click + New step, search for Google Drive, and choose Create file. Sign in to your Google account if prompted.

Step 4. Set the Folder Path by clicking the folder icon and selecting the destination folder in Google Drive. For File Name, choose File Name from dynamic content. For File Content, select File content from dynamic content.

Step 5. Click Save at the top right. Upload a file to your OneDrive folder to test. Verify that the file appears in Google Drive automatically.

Conclusion

Throughout this post, we explored multiple effective ways on how to move files from OneDrive to another cloud storage service like Google Drive. From using desktop apps and manual download-upload methods to automated tools like Microsoft Power Automate and command-line programs such as Rclone, each approach offers unique benefits and suits different user needs. Whether you prefer manual control or seamless automation, these methods make transferring files straightforward. Choose the one that fits your workflow best to simplify your cloud management and save time when moving files between OneDrive and other platforms.

FAQs About Moving OneDrive Files to Google Drive

Now that you’ve learned several methods to move files from OneDrive to Google Drive, you might have some common questions. Let’s take a look at frequently asked questions to help you better understand the process and troubleshoot any issues you may encounter.

1. Are OneDrive and Google Drive the Same?

No, OneDrive and Google Drive are not the same. They are both cloud storage services but are offered by different companies—OneDrive is by Microsoft, while Google Drive is by Google. Each platform has its features, apps, and integrations with other services. For example, OneDrive integrates closely with Microsoft Office apps, whereas Google Drive works seamlessly with Google Workspace tools like Docs and Sheets. While both provide storage and file sharing, their interfaces and ecosystems differ to suit various user preferences and needs.

2. How to Migrate OneDrive to Google Workspace?

Migrating OneDrive files to Google Workspace can help you consolidate your work into Google’s ecosystem, making collaboration and file management easier. To do this efficiently, you can use tools like Google Workspace Migration or manual methods involving download and upload. Here’s a simple 5-step tutorial to guide you through the manual migration process:

• 1. Sign in to your OneDrive account and select the files or folders you want to migrate.
• 2. Click Download to save them to your computer.
• 3. Open your Google Workspace account and go to Google Drive.
• 4. Click New > File upload or Folder upload and select the downloaded files.
• 5. Wait for the upload to complete; your files are now in Google Workspace.

3. How to Move Files from OneDrive to Another OneDrive Account?

Moving files from one OneDrive account to another can help you organize your data across personal and work accounts or transfer files when switching accounts. You can do this easily by downloading files from the first account and uploading them to the second. Here’s a simple 5-step tutorial:

• 1. Log in to your first OneDrive account and select the files or folders you want to move.
• 2. Click Download to save them to your computer.
• 3. Sign out and then log in to your second OneDrive account.
• 4. Click Upload > Files or Folder, then choose the downloaded files to upload.
• 5. Wait for the upload to finish—your files are now transferred to the new account.