How to Convert OST to MBOX with Attachments in Easy Steps

OST Outlook files are of great use when users need to work offline, but they are prone to errors. Thus, a need for a more swift and compatible file like MBOX arises. Sometimes, handling these emails gets tricky due to the differences in the file formats for each email client. Like, while working with Outlook, you use OST and PST, and when you switch to Apple Mail or Thunderbird. MBOX is your preferred choice. This blog describes some solutions and an OST to PST Converter Tool to convert OST to MBOX reliably and instantly.

How OST to MBOX Conversion Benefits Users?

While the difference between the OST and MBOX file formats seems large, they are quite easy to understand and exchange. Some common reasons to convert Outlook OST to MBOX are:

  • MBOX is supported by many email platforms, thus giving cross-platform accessibility.
  • Transferring OST to MBOX ensures you are creating a backup to prevent data loss.
  • MBOX files are better for archiving and data management purposes and take less storage.
  • Transfer OST to MBOX to access Outlook data even on non-Exchange servers like Gmail.
  • MBOX files are easy to open, portable, and secure. It allows you to view if the OST file is orphaned or corrupted.

Relevant Methodologies to Convert OST to MBOX

The first way involves using a manual solution. The second way is to use a professional tool for quick, secure, and hassle-free file transfer. Both methods are discussed briefly in the upcoming section of this blog. We’ll delve into both of them one after the other, knowing all about their pros and cons.

Convert OST File to MBOX for Free

We all know that Outlook doesn’t directly support MBOX, indeed, there is no direct way for conversion. But what we can do is first convert OST file to PST and later PST to MBOX. The process is a bit lengthy and will require technical knowledge. Follow these conversion steps:

  1. In Outlook, you need to open the File section and click on Open & Export.
  2. In the options represented, then, choose the Import/Export option.
  3. After that, simply look for the Export to a file option. Select it and tap Next.
  4. In the second window, click on Outlook Data File (.pst) to save OST as.
  5. Further, click Next and choose the OST file that is to be converted.
  6. Again, hit the Next button and choose a folder in Outlook to save the PST.
  7. Finally, apply the password (optional) and click on Finish to change OST to PST.
  8. Now, open the Mozilla Thunderbird (installed and running) on the system.
  9. Ensure you make Outlook the default email program to convert OST to MBOX.
  10. Afterward, from the More menu, click on the Import option and pick Mail.
  11. In the displayed options, choose Import from Outlook and click Next.
  12. Later, pick the Outlook items to save and click on Import to start the process.
  13. Once all the items are imported from Outlook PST (earlier OST), hit Finish.
  14. With this, the process to export OST to MBOX is completed successfully.

Loopholes of the Manual Method

  • Only one OST can be transferred to MBOX at a time, i.e., no bulk conversion.
  • It is an indirect process with several steps and a risk of losing crucial data.
  • Slow and ineffective solution for many OST files with large attachments.
  • Use of multiple email applications with proper internet connectivity.

Which Automated Tool Convert OST to MBOX Effortlessly?

SysInfo OST to PST Converter is your direct and speedy solution to migrate Outlook OST data into MBOX. This effective tool works seamlessly on all Windows OS without expert assistance. It has no restrictions on file size or count and supports batch saving OST as MBOX. Additionally, the tool enables previewing data and filtering emails for selective conversion. Moreover, it keeps the data structure and integrity intact throughout and after the conversion. It gives some more benefits like:

  • Removes duplicates from Outlook OST and its attachments, if needed.
  • Save the OST into a desired file format other than MBOX at a chosen location.
  • A free version of this OST to PST Migrator allows converting up to 50 emails per folder.

Steps to Convert Outlook OST to MBOX

  1. Install and run the software on the computer and click on Next.
  2. Choose the OST files and click Open to upload them to the tool. Tap Next.
  3. Then, select the Outlook folders after previewing to change and hit Next.
  4. Further, pick the MBOX format from the menu and, selectively, filters.
  5. At last, set a path to save and press Convert to save OST as MBOX.

Conclusion

To sum up, the blog is a full-fledged know why and how to convert OST to MBOX. While the manual method helps with small and few OST file conversions, it is still risky. On the other hand, a professional tool converts large OST files with attachments into MBOX format securely. It helps users streamline their data and prevent all unexpected challenges with the OST files.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How to convert Outlook OST file data to MBOX without MS Outlook?

Ans- Convert OST file to MBOX without Outlook by the steps mentioned here:
1. Launch OST to Outlook PST Converter and upload Outlook OST files.
2. Click Next and then preview the files. Select folders and hit Next to continue.
3. Further, opt for the file format MBOX to save into and choose filters.
4. Select a destination and, finally, click Convert to move data risk-free.

Q. Can I import multiple OST files to the MBOX at once?

Ans- Yes. With the OST to PST Migration Tool, you can convert OST to MBOX (single or multiple files) at once. It has no limitations and supports any number of files for transfer at the same time without size issues.

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About The Author:

Simran Bhatia is a technical content writer engaged in writing clear, concise, and SEO-optimized content. With a background in computer science and a passion for writing, I thrive to deliver complex technical content in simple layman terms.

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