Tired of opening your browser every time you need to check your Gmail? Adding Gmail to your desktop makes it as accessible as any other app. Whether you want a shortcut, a dedicated app, or an email client setup, Windows 11 makes this easy.
This guide will show you step-by-step how to add Gmail to your desktop in multiple ways.
Why Add Gmail to Your Desktop?
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Quick access without opening a browser manually
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Better multitasking with dedicated windows
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Offline access with supported email clients
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Productivity boost for frequent email users
Method 1 – Create a Gmail Shortcut Using Your Browser
The simplest and fastest method.
Steps for Google Chrome
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Open Gmail in Chrome.
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Click the three-dot menu (⋮) in the top-right corner.
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Go to More tools > Create shortcut.
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Check Open as window.
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Click Create — a Gmail shortcut will appear on your desktop.
Steps for Microsoft Edge
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Open Gmail in Edge.
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Click the three-dot menu (⋯) > Apps > Install this site as an app.
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Name it Gmail.
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Click Install — it will also appear in Start menu and desktop.
Method 2 – Add Gmail as a Progressive Web App (PWA)
This turns Gmail into a standalone app.
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Open Gmail in Chrome or Edge.
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Click the install icon (➕) in the address bar.
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Confirm installation.
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Launch it like a regular app from the Start menu or desktop.
Method 3 – Add Gmail to Desktop via Outlook App
If you prefer using a desktop email client, Outlook (built into Windows 11) is a great choice.
Steps
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Open the Mail app or Outlook app.
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Go to Settings > Manage accounts > Add account.
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Select Google.
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Sign in with your Gmail credentials.
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Allow permissions — your Gmail will now sync with Outlook.
Method 4 – Pin Gmail Shortcut to Taskbar or Start Menu
Once you’ve created a Gmail shortcut:
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Right-click the shortcut.
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Select Pin to taskbar or Pin to Start.
Now you can open Gmail in a single click.
How to Enable Offline Gmail Access
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Open Gmail in a browser.
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Go to Settings > See all settings > Offline.
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Enable Offline Mail.
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Choose storage settings and click Save changes.
How to Remove Gmail Shortcut from Desktop
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Right-click the Gmail shortcut.
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Select Delete — this only removes the shortcut, not your emails.
Can You Use Gmail Without Internet?
Yes, but only if Offline Mail is enabled in Gmail settings.
Benefits of Adding Gmail to Desktop
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Instant access with one click
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Seamless integration with Windows 11
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Works like a native app when installed as PWA
Troubleshooting: Gmail Shortcut Not Working?
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Clear browser cache and try again.
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Ensure you’re logged into Gmail in your default browser.
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Recreate the shortcut.
Does Adding Gmail as an App Use Extra Storage?
No, it uses minimal storage because it’s essentially a browser-based shortcut.
Conclusion
Adding Gmail to your desktop in Windows 11 is easy and highly convenient. Whether you choose a shortcut, PWA, or full Outlook integration, each method ensures you can access your emails faster than ever.
FAQs
1. Which method is best for casual users?
The browser shortcut or PWA method is easiest and quickest.
2. Can I add multiple Gmail accounts this way?
Yes, each account can have its own shortcut or app.
3. Do I need to install any extra software?
No, Chrome, Edge, or Outlook (built-in) is enough.
4. Is Gmail available as a Microsoft Store app?
No, Gmail is not in the Microsoft Store, but PWA works like a native app.
5. Can I sync Gmail with Windows notifications?
Yes, if you use Outlook or enable notifications in the PWA.