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Link source vs text source in NotebookLM
Short answer
A link source asks NotebookLM to fetch a web page itself; it keeps the URL and works for public pages. A text source is content you send, which works for pages behind a login and for anything NotebookLM cannot reach. NotebookLM Ultra Exporter can add a page either way, both free.
Side by side
| Link source | Text source | |
|---|---|---|
| Who fetches the content | Google servers | Your browser |
| Pages behind a login | Fail | Work, for content you can read |
| Keeps the source URL | Yes | Embedded links are kept in the text |
| Risk of capturing the wrong content | Cookie banners, blocked pages | Only what was loaded |
Which to choose
- Choose Link source if the page is public and you want the original link attached.
- Choose Text source if the link import failed, or the page needs you to be signed in.
Free or Pro?
Free, with no daily export quota and no website account needed. Pro covers the extension only; it does not include a Google subscription or raise NotebookLM's own limits. Current prices are on the pricing page.
Frequently asked questions
Link source or Text source: which is better?
Neither in general. Choose Link source if the page is public and you want the original link attached. Choose Text source if the link import failed, or the page needs you to be signed in.
Does a text source count toward the limit?
Yes. Each is one source, with the same size limit.
Related guides
To add a page without opening it, right-click any link and choose Add this link to NotebookLM with NotebookLM Ultra Exporter installed.
NotebookLM cannot fetch pages that need a login, so a link source fails. With NotebookLM Ultra Exporter, choose Add page text to NotebookLM instead: the.
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