Slack file size limit: 1 GB per file, and the 90-day catch
Short answer
Slack lets you upload files up to 1 GB each on every plan, up to 10 at a time. On the free plan, only the last 90 days of files stay visible. For bigger files, or people outside your workspace, send a link.
| Limit | |
|---|---|
| Per file, every plan | 1 GB |
| Files per message | Up to 10 |
| Free plan history | Last 90 days visible |
| People outside your workspace | Need to be invited, or use a link |
The catch on the free plan
A file you share in a free Slack workspace disappears from view after 90 days, along with the messages around it. Slack has also started deleting free-plan data older than a year. That makes Slack a poor place to keep a file someone will need later. The upload limit is fine; it's the shelf life that bites.
Sending to someone who isn't in your Slack
Slack files only reach people in your workspace, or in a shared channel through Slack Connect. For a client, a contractor or anyone else, you're back to email limits. A link solves both problems.
Files over 1 GB, or for people outside Slack
Upload the file to Send Shed's Quick Share (free, no account, up to 3 GB per file) and paste the link into Slack or an email. The file stays up as long as people keep using it, isn't tied to your Slack plan's history, and anyone with the link can open it. Add a password or a download limit if it's only for one person, or use Encrypted Share for anything confidential.
Quick answers
What is Slack's file size limit?
Each file you upload to Slack can be up to 1 GB, on every plan, including the free one.
How many files can I upload to Slack at once?
Up to 10 files at a time when you drag them into a message.
Why can't I see old files in Slack?
On the free plan, Slack only shows the last 90 days of messages and files, and older data is deleted after a year. Paid plans keep the full history.
Too big? Send it here instead
Upload it to Quick Share — up to 3 GB per file, free, no account — and paste the link wherever you were trying to attach it. Unused links delete themselves.
Send it with Quick Share Send it encrypted