Clarified Potential

Managing multiple calendar apps can be a hassle, especially when juggling a work calendar in Microsoft Outlook Calendar and a personal calendar in Google Calendar.

Missing outlook events or dealing with double bookings is frustrating, but the good news is that you can sync Outlook calendar with Google Calendar events seamlessly.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll explore the best way to merge your Outlook account and Google account calendars using different methods, including manual exports, Google Calendar sync, and third-party tools.

Why Sync Outlook and Google Calendars?

  • Avoid double bookings between work meetings and personal commitments.

  • View your full schedule in one place, whether on a mobile app or desktop.

  • Improve time management by having all events in real time across different systems.

Method 1: Sync Outlook Calendar with Google Calendar (Two-Way Sync)

Step 1: Export Outlook Calendar in iCal Format
  1. Open Outlook and go to File > Open & Export > Import/Export.

  2. Select Export to a file and choose iCalendar (.ics).

  3. Pick the date range (or full calendar) and save the ICS file.

Step 2: Import into Google Calendar
  1. Open Google Calendar in a new window.

  2. Click the + next to other calendars in the left column and select Import.

  3. Upload the ICS file and choose your destination calendar (e.g., personal calendar).

Step 3: Set Up Automatic Syncing

For real-time sync, use:

  • Google Calendar Sync (if available for your Outlook version)

  • A third-party tool like SyncGene or CalendarBridge (some offer a free trial)

Method 2: Subscribe to Google Calendar in Outlook (One-Way Sync)

If you only need Google Calendar events in Outlook:

  1. In Google Calendar, click the gear icon > Settings and sharing.

  2. Find the calendar URL under Integrate calendar (copy the ICS link).

  3. In Outlook, go to File > Account Settings > Internet Calendars.

  4. Paste the ICS link and click Add Calendar.

This method works for Windows Outlook app, Outlook Online, and even Mac users.

Method 3: Use Microsoft Power Automate (For Office 365 Users)

If you have Google Workspace or G Suite accounts, automate syncing:

  1. Go to Microsoft Power Automate.

  2. Set up a flow to sync Google Calendar with Outlook calendar events.

  3. Choose sync direction (one-way or two-way).

Method 4: Use a Shared Calendar (For Teams & Families)

  1. In Google Calendar, create a new calendar under Shared Calendars option.

  2. Share it with team members via the permissions drop-down menu.

  3. In Outlook, add it as an Internet Calendar (see Method 2).

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Slow syncs? Check your internet connection or try a 3rd party tool.

  • Different time zones? Adjust settings in both calendar apps.

  • Private events not syncing? Ensure permissions are set correctly.

Best Practices for Syncing Calendars

  • Use two-way sync if you need updates in real time.

  • For Android devices, install the Outlook mobile app or Google Calendar app from the App Store.

Conclusion

Syncing your Microsoft Outlook Calendar with Google Calendar ensures you never miss a meeting or personal event.

Whether you choose manual ICS exports, Google Calendar sync, or a third-party tool, the easiest way depends on your needs.

For best results, test different methods and pick the one that fits your busy schedule.

Now, enjoy a unified calendar experience across all your mobile devices!