How to Convert Maildir Files to MS Outlook in Bulk?

author Written By Deep Sikha
author Approved By Sonika Rawat
Updated on 5th Aug 2024
Reading Time 6 minutes

With the increased usage of technology and the introduction of numerous file formats, users strive to find the best. The changes in organizations and work demands to switch from one file format to another. "Are you also trying to convert Maildir to Outlook PST files?" This article suggests accurate solutions and an expert Maildir Converter Tool for migrating your Maildir files conveniently. But, before proceeding, let’s understand a bit about these file formats.

Maildir vs PST - Differences

Maildir Format Outlook PST
Maildir is a directory file that came into existence through the Qmail email client application. Personal Storage Table is also known as Outlook Data File. It is a file format supported by Outlook.
It was earlier used by the Unix-based email servers. But, now it supports Thunderbird, and other clients too. This format is used on Windows email clients. PST can only be used within Outlook.
Maildir saves messages and other data of an email application in a structured order with a unique name. PST stores emails, contacts, calendars, tasks, notes, and all associated mailbox data within Outlook.
Maildir format creates a distinct file for each incoming message. In addition, it requires an online server for access. This format requires an Internet connection to enable access to the Outlook files.

Valid Reasons For Maildir to Outlook Conversion

The most common cause for this migration is to access Maildir files and emails in the Outlook environment. Furthermore, some substantial reasons stating the need for the conversion of Maildir files to Outlook are as follows:

  • Maildir is a server-based email format whereas Outlook is a web-based email client.
  • The user is unable to access the email directory, whenever required.
  • Users need to connect to the server every time they want to access Maildir mailbox items.
  • Also, Outlook has advanced features that Maildir lacks.
  • The raw data of a maildir file cannot be opened on the computer system.
    Moreover, they are inaccessible on local machines.

Methods to Convert Maildir to Outlook

There are two ways involved to convert Maildir to Outlook: Manually or Professionally. The detailed guide for these techniques is discussed below.

Export Maildir File from Server to PST Manually

This method involves two stages: Firstly, exporting maildir files from the local server and then, converting them to PST. To do so, follow the steps given below:

  1. Connect to the Server where maildir files are stored.
  2. Next, click on the mailbox items and open the folders to explore the files.
  3. Draft, Sent, Cur, New, Tmp, and folders will appear in front of you.
  4. Then, create a Backup of all these folders on the local drive.
  5. Further, open Outlook and move to the File tab.
  6. Select the Import/Export option from the Open & Export option.
  7. Afterward, choose Import from another program or file and click Next.
  8. Subsequently, click the Browse button to locate and add the Maildir file to import.
  9. Select the other options to include subfolders or manage duplicates.
  10. At last, click the Finish button to complete the conversion process successfully.

It is to be noted that though this manual method is cost-free, it is complex and lengthy. It requires time and technical knowledge to perform migration accurately. Otherwise, this may result in data manipulation or loss. Therefore, try to opt for the expert tool as discussed below.

Convert Maildir File to PST- Use Dedicated Software

It is very difficult to import a Maildir file in MS Outlook unless and until it is converted to PST format. The automated Maildir to Outlook Converter is a comprehensive solution to convert Maildir in bulk. This software allows you to safely convert single and multiple files at once in different file formats and to email clients. It is easy to use and can also remove duplicates. Moreover, it ensures that data is intact without modifications and is highly secure.

Steps to Convert Maildir to Outlook

Step-1: Download and Launch Maildir Converter on your system. Run it as an administrator.

Step-2: Click Continue. Choose either of the two: Select File or Select Folder option to select the Maildir files from the system. Click Open > Next.

Step-3: Now, expand the tree hierarchy and click on the Preview button to see the selected files. Select the files to continue with and click Next.

Step-4: Further, select the Save As type to PST to export the Maildir files.

Step-5: Select the additional filter options that you want to apply to the file.

Step-6: Subsequently, specify the destination path to save the resultant file.

Step-7: At last, hit the Convert button.

Isn’t this a straightforward method to transfer Maildir files? You can follow all the steps and apply them even if you are a non-technical user.

Conclusion

Now, let’s wrap up the things. We have discussed different methods on how to convert Maildir to Outlook PST format. Now it depends on you how you convert maildir files or folders. You may find manual techniques free, but they are not practical. They can harm your crucial data and the risk of data loss is high. I’ll always recommend that spend some bucks rather than lose your crucial data.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How do I convert a maildir into Outlook?

Ans. Follow the steps given below for seamless conversion of your Maildir files to Outlook:
  1. Install the Maildir Converter on your system and run it.
  2. Click Continue. Browse and select the Maildir files to convert. Click Open and hit Next.
  3. Preview the selected files and folders and choose files to proceed with. Click Next.
  4. Further, select PST as the file-saving format and apply additional filters to the file.
  5. Subsequently, specify the path to save and click Convert.

Q2. Can I preview Maildir emails before converting them into Outlook?

Ans. With the Sysinfo Maildir Converter Tool, you can preview your emails and files before converting them into Outlook. It allows you to check all the file contents and attachments along with it. Also, you can remove the unnecessary files and select only specific ones that you want to convert further. This tool is very convenient and ensures that your files are safely converted within just a few steps.