Free Methods to Convert OLM to MBOX on Windows & Mac

Why Users Tend to Convert OLM File to MBOX?

The most common reasons for this OLM to MBOX conversion are:

• MBOX is universal for macOS, Linux, and Windows clients for email.
• Once switched to Apple Mail or Thunderbird from Outlook for Mac, data access is as seamless as switching could be.
• The MBOX format is lighter and convenient for several archiving and backup tools (e.g., less storage-bound).
• Also, many companies planning a cross-platform may prefer to use MBOX for its scalability and versatility.

For instance, a university IT group planning a transition from Outlook for Mac to Thunderbird on their Linux systems can change OLM to MBOX. It will help them maintain communication continuity with their faculty members.

Which Top Methods Convert OLM to MBOX?

We have two manual ways and a professional utility that enables a smooth, secure, and successful conversion. Using any of these methods, you can convert your entire mailbox data without any issues. But know that every free solution has some limitations that you may face. Explore all about it in the sections below.

Free Convert OLM File to MBOX

Whether you are a Windows user or a Mac user, you can seamlessly convert the files with different email clients. But you must have good technical skills to follow these processes and make the switch. The methods are:

Method 1: Export OLM to MBOX on macOS

1. First, start Mac Outlook and from the File tab, click the Export option.
2. Then, choose OLM items (Mail, Calendar, Contacts) and save your OLM file.
3. Next, using IMAP, configure iCloud within your Outlook for Mac account.
4. Later, drag and drop emails from OLM into the IMAP-synced Gmail folders.
5. Now, sync the same iCloud account into Apple Mail, and your emails appear.
6. In the end, from Apple Mail tabs, click Mailbox and press Export Mailbox.

The files are successfully downloaded in MBOX format on the PC.

Method 2: Convert OLM to MBOX Mac & Windows OS

1. Begin the process by ensuring your Gmail account has IMAP enabled.
2. Next, generate an App Password for your Gmail from 2-step verification in its Settings.
3. After that, open Outlook for Mac and from the Outlook tab, click on Preferences.
4. Further, choose Accounts → + → Add Account and enter Gmail credentials.
5. Enter your email and password, complete the sync, and create a New Folder in it.
6. Later, drag and drop emails from the Outlook for Mac folder to your new Gmail folder.
7. Now, add the same Gmail in your Mozilla Thunderbird and complete the configuration.
8. Then, check if it has the ImportExportTools NG extension added or not. If not, add it from Add-ons and Themes.
9. Then, select the folder containing OLM emails and right-click it to select add-on → Export folder → as .mbox files.
10. In the end, a dialog shows, choose your folder, and click Select Folder to convert OLM file to MBOX.

Shortcomings:

• Calendars and contacts are not completely moved.
• Time-consuming process that needs a proper internet connection.
• Unsuitable for large and heavy OLM mailboxes.
• You need both macOS and Windows OS with different active email clients.

Convert OLM to MBOX: Why the Difficulty?

You must be wondering why there is such a lengthy process for manual conversion and why it is this tricky? There are a few factors that can explain the difference between them, and also why it requires so much effort:

So, if it’s this complex, is there no other way to directly change OLM to MBOX Mac? Well, don’t worry. There is one straightforward solution that converts your files without losing data or any other complexities.

Dedicated Solution to Convert OLM to MBOX Mac/Windows

While free techniques work, they are not practical for large mailboxes with attachments and all sorts of data. In this case, use the SysInfo OLM Converter Tool, as it handles batch processing and also has no restrictions for the conversion. Additionally, this specialized software has various filters, supports all OS versions, and can even convert OLM to EML or other formats. The conversion process takes place automatically with ease at once all while preserving the emails, attachments, and other mailbox data and structure. Thus, the result is an efficient transition with accuracy and precision.

Steps to Convert Outlook OLM to MBOX

1. Launch the software and click on Continue to start the utility.
2. Once the file selection window opens, load your OLM files and folders.
3. Then, click Next and view them in the preview pane from the tree structure.
4. After that, select the folders, click Next, and choose MBOX format to save.
5. Finally, apply the required filters and click Convert to complete the format change.

Conclusion

Changing from OLM to MBOX does not have to feel like trying to run a program with broken code. For small mailboxes with a bit of patience, free methods will convert OLM to MBOX. But when things get serious, think teams, deadlines, and terabytes of data, a professional tool separates the chaos from successful transfer. The right method will not just move your emails but will also secure your mailboxes with no hassle.

FAQs

About The Author:

Suman Rawat

Suman Rawat is a technical content writer and expert in the fields of email migration, data recovery, and email backup. Her passion for helping people has led her to resolve many user queries related to data conversion and cloud backup.