How to get Gmail on Desktop for Windows and Mac

Many email users prefer desktop applications over web apps for email management due to several key benefits. Desktop apps typically offer faster performance, offline access, and an integrated user experience with the operating system.

They allow users to manage multiple email accounts seamlessly, use advanced features, and often provide better security. Despite the absence of an official Gmail desktop app, there are ways to create a similar experience using browser shortcuts or, even better, by using a dedicated email client like Spike, which offers a robust and feature-rich alternative.

Is There an Official Gmail App for Windows or Mac?

No, there is no official Gmail app for any desktop operating system, including Windows or Mac. Google has chosen to focus on a web-based platform for Gmail, which aligns with its broader ‘cloud philosophy.’

This approach ensures that Gmail remains accessible from any device with an internet connection, providing a consistent user experience across all platforms. By prioritizing web access, Google can update and maintain Gmail more efficiently.

This avoids the complexities of developing and supporting separate desktop applications for different operating systems. On Android and iOS, Gmail is available as a native app, though.

Workarounds for Setting Up a Gmail Desktop App

Even without an official Gmail desktop app, there are alternative options for users to set up Gmail on their desktops.

How to Set Up Gmail Desktop App Using a Browser

Follow these steps to create a desktop shortcut for Gmail using different browsers and how to pin them to the macOS Dock or Windows 10/11 Taskbar.

Limitations of Browser Gmail App Shortcuts

Using these workarounds allows you to enjoy the convenience of quick access to Gmail from your desktop, though with some limitations. Consider using a dedicated email client like Spike for a more robust solution.

Using IMAP to Access Gmail on the Desktop

Despite the absence of an official desktop app, Google allows users to access Gmail on the desktop via IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol). IMAP lets users sync their Gmail account with various email clients, such as Spike, Outlook, Apple Mail, or any other desktop client.

This method provides a more integrated and feature-rich experience on the desktop, allowing users to manage their Gmail account alongside other email accounts within their preferred email client.

The Ideal Alternative: Spike’s Email App

Spike is an ideal solution for Gmail users who want to access their inbox with a desktop application. Spike is a powerful email client designed to transform email communication by turning emails into chat-like conversations.

It combines emails, chat, and collaboration tools into a single interface. If you love WhatsApp and iMessage, you’ll LOVE Spike.

Compatibility with Gmail

Spike easily integrates with Gmail, allowing users to manage their Gmail accounts within Spike’s email app without creating a new account.

Desktop Application for Windows and Mac

Spike offers dedicated desktop applications for both Windows and Mac, ensuring a consistent and optimized experience across platforms. It works great on mobile devices as well!

Free to Use with Existing Gmail Accounts

Users can link their existing Gmail accounts to Spike for free, enjoying all the benefits of a desktop application without any additional cost.

Enhanced Features

Using Spike’s email app, Gmail users can enjoy a desktop application with enhanced features, improved productivity, and a seamless user experience.

Wrap up

While there is no official Gmail desktop app, various workarounds like browser shortcuts can provide partial solutions but come with limitations such as lack of offline access and integration. For a fully functional and feature-rich experience, Spike is the best alternative.

It offers seamless Gmail integration, enhanced productivity tools, and a user-friendly interface on both Windows and Mac.

Try Spike today to transform your email inbox and boost your productivity. Download Spike and experience the difference it can make! You’ll turn your email experience into something you love vs something you dread!