How to Get Gmail on Desktop for Windows and Mac: The Ultimate Guide (2024)

Are you tired of the limitations of web-based email?

You’re not alone. Many email users prefer desktop applications for faster performance, offline access, and seamless integration with other tools. However, as of 2024, Google hasn’t released a dedicated Gmail desktop app for Windows or Mac, opting instead to focus on a cloud-based Gmail experience accessible from any device.

Fortunately, several ways exist to achieve a Gmail desktop experience, such as browser shortcuts, third-party applications, and advanced email clients. Here’s a quick look at your options:

• Browser shortcuts for quick access

• Third-party apps with desktop-like interfaces

• Advanced email clients, like Spike, offer added features and productivity tools

Each option has its benefits and limitations, allowing you to choose the best fit for your needs. This guide will walk you through step-by-step instructions on how to set up Gmail on your desktop.

For users who want more than basic access, Spike provides a unique, feature-rich approach that combines Gmail’s familiarity with a chat-like interface, collaborative tools, and enhanced productivity features.

Let’s examine each solution in detail to help you find the best Gmail desktop option.

Is There an Official Gmail App for Windows or Mac?

As of 2024, Google hasn’t released an official desktop app for Gmail on Windows, Mac, or Linux. This aligns with Google’s broader strategy of prioritizing cloud-based services, which offers several advantages:

• Universal access: Gmail can be accessed from any device with an internet connection.

• Automatic updates: Users always have the latest features and security patches.

• Simplified maintenance: No need to download or update separate desktop applications.

However, some users may prefer the features and functionality of a dedicated desktop app, such as offline access, desktop notifications, and smoother integration with other desktop tools.

Fortunately, several effective methods exist to create a desktop-like Gmail experience, from browser shortcuts to full-featured email clients. In the following sections, we’ll explore these options, including a closer look at Spike, an innovative email client that enhances Gmail with additional productivity features.

3 Methods to Use Gmail on Desktop

While Gmail doesn’t offer an official desktop app, there are several effective ways to access Gmail from your computer, each with unique benefits. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy solution, additional features, or a fully integrated experience, there’s an option to suit your needs.

In the following sections, we’ll delve into these three methods in detail:

1. Creating browser shortcuts: A simple way to launch Gmail as a standalone app for quick and easy access.
2. Third-party desktop applications: Explore specialized tools that can enhance your Gmail experience with additional features.
3. Using Spike: Discover a modern email client that reimagines email as a collaborative workspace, offering a seamless Gmail experience with advanced features.

1. Quick Solution: Setting Up Gmail Shortcuts on Your Desktop

Browser shortcuts offer a quick and easy way to access Gmail from your desktop. You can launch Gmail directly with minimal setup, providing an app-like experience. However, these shortcuts operate within a browser, limiting their functionality compared to dedicated desktop apps.

Here’s how to create Gmail shortcuts on various browsers:

Limitations:

This shortcut will open Gmail in a Chrome-based window, so offline access and certain notifications may not be available.

Note:

Like Chrome, Edge shortcuts keep Gmail within a browser environment, which can limit offline access and desktop notifications.

Limitations:

This shortcut opens Gmail in Safari, which requires an active internet connection. Safari shortcuts don’t support offline mode or desktop notifications.

Unique Aspect:

Firefox doesn’t offer the “Open as window” option directly, so Gmail may still open in a browser tab instead of a standalone window.

Limitations of Browser Shortcuts

While browser shortcuts are convenient, they have limitations compared to a dedicated app:

• Requires internet: You need an active internet connection to access Gmail, as these shortcuts don’t support offline mode.

• Limited notifications: Shortcuts may not provide desktop notifications, which can affect real-time email alerts.

• Browser dependence: Since shortcuts run in a browser environment, integration with desktop features and tools is limited.

Exploring third-party desktop applications may be a better fit if you’re looking for more functionality—such as offline access, enhanced notifications, or a truly app-like experience. Let’s look at some of these alternatives.

2. Beyond the Basics: Third-Party Apps for Gmail on Desktop

Third-party applications offer a compelling solution for users who desire a more robust Gmail experience on their desktop. These apps provide features like offline access, desktop notifications, and seamless integration with other productivity tools.

Let’s explore some of the top options:

1. Microsoft Outlook:

• Seamless integration: Integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft products.

• Offline access: Access and compose emails even without an internet connection.

• Focused inbox: Prioritizes essential emails.

• Calendar and task management: Manage your schedule and tasks within the same app.

Pros:

• Part of the Microsoft Office suite, offering smooth integration with other Microsoft apps.

• Designed for efficient email and calendar management.

Cons:

• Some may need clarification on the interface.

• Advanced features might be overwhelming for new users.

2. Kiwi for Gmail:

• Unified inbox: Consolidate multiple Gmail accounts into a single view.

• Desktop notifications: Receive real-time notifications.

• Google Calendar integration: Built-in support for calendar management.

Pros:

• Familiar Gmail interface with additional desktop functionality.

• Perfect for users with multiple Gmail accounts.

Cons:

• Paid app.

• It lacks some advanced Gmail features.

3. Mailbird:

• Unified inbox and customizable layouts: Organize multiple email accounts and customize the interface.

• App integrations: Integrates with Slack, WhatsApp, and calendar tools.

• Quick attachment preview: View attachments without downloading.

Pros:

• Intuitive interface and integration with popular productivity apps.

Cons:

• Third-party integrations may not be as seamless as native Gmail features.

By exploring these third-party apps, you can elevate your Gmail experience on the desktop and boost your productivity.

Summary Chart:

3: The Ideal Alternative: Spike Email Client

For those seeking a truly innovative and comprehensive email experience, Spike offers a compelling alternative to traditional Gmail clients. By seamlessly blending the familiar features of Gmail with a modern, chat-like interface, Spike transforms your inbox into a collaborative workspace.

Spike offers a unique approach to managing Gmail on desktop for those seeking a full-featured, productivity-focused email client. Unlike other third-party apps, Spike transforms your inbox into a collaborative workspace, combining the familiarity of Gmail with a chat-like interface, task management, and real-time collaboration tools.

It’s designed for users who want more than just an email app—it’s a tool to streamline and enhance communication, organization, and productivity.

Key Features:

• Chat-like interface: Spike turns traditional email threads into conversations, making communication faster and more intuitive. With its chat-like design, you can quickly respond to messages in a natural, flowing manner—ideal for teams and personal use.

• Integrated calendar: Keep track of appointments without leaving your inbox. Spike’s built-in calendar allows you to schedule, view, and manage events in one place, integrating seamlessly with your Gmail calendar.

• Task management: Spike includes task management tools that let you create, organize, and prioritize tasks directly from your email. There is no need for separate to-do apps—manage your workflow all within Spike.

• Magic AI: Spike’s AI-powered features allow for faster, context-aware responses and advanced search capabilities, making it easier to handle high email volumes and locate information quickly.

Why Spike is ideal for Gmail users

Spike stands out as a top choice for Gmail users who want to centralize communication, calendar, and task management in one place.

Here’s why Spike is an ideal solution:

• Multiple account integration: Manage various Gmail accounts within Spike without switching between tabs or browsers, saving time and simplifying organization.

• Enhanced productivity tools: Spike’s unique combination of email, chat, calendar, tasks, and notes creates a unified workspace for efficient, streamlined communication.

• Free to use with existing Gmail accounts: Spike can link with your Gmail accounts, allowing you to experience its features without additional costs.

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!