I'm having a weird issue with Google Drive where the file sizes for everything I upload seem to be much larger than they actually are. This is definitely not a compression issue because it happens with all types of files—both compressed and uncompressed. When I download the file again, my PC shows the correct, smaller size just fine, but Google Drive lists them as gigantic.
Initially, I thought it was a one-off bug, and when I emptied my Drive and reuploaded everything, the sizes looked correct again. But now, my used storage jumped from about 20% to 83%, and various file types like BMPs, TIFs, DOCs, MP3s, JPGs, and even game saves are showing inflated sizes. When I search for answers online, I mostly find info about files getting uncompressed, which isn't the case here. I'm really confused and would appreciate any insights. Thanks!
3 Answers
This sounds like a reporting bug from Google Drive. If the files download correctly at the right sizes, then they should be fine. Try clearing your cache or using Google Drive for Desktop; it might help sort out the size display issue.
The last step in clearing the cache says "Delete Data". Will that erase my uploaded files? Sorry if it's a silly question!
Are you uploading files from a Windows machine? Remember, Windows uses MiB and GiB instead of MB and GB, which can cause size discrepancies. Files might show smaller on Windows than they do on other systems due to these differences, but it shouldn't account for a huge size jump. Can you tell me the sizes of specific files on your PC versus what Google Drive shows?
Sure! For example, I have a TIF file that shows 155MB on Windows but 1.06GB on Google Drive.
Could it be related to versioning, comments, or metadata somehow? This is definitely strange and a bit intriguing.
Thanks for the reply! I'll give your suggestions a shot.