How to Convert Outlook PST to MBOX? A Detailed Guide

If you are switching from Microsoft Outlook to other email clients like Thunderbird, Apple Mail, or Evolution, one of the major challenges is transferring your emails. Outlook stores all emails in PST (Personal Storage Table) format, whereas most other email clients support MBOX format. In this blog, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide to convert Outlook PST to MBOX safely and efficiently.

Why Convert PST to MBOX?

Outlook PST files are not supported by many email clients outside of Microsoft Outlook. Converting PST to MBOX allows you to:

  • Access your emails in Thunderbird, Apple Mail, or other MBOX-supported email clients.

  • Preserve emails, attachments, and folder structure during migration.

  • Back up your Outlook data in a portable, widely-supported format.


Methods to Convert PST to MBOX

There are two main approaches to convert PST files: manual methods and using professional software.

1. Manual Method (Free, but Limited)

Microsoft Outlook allows exporting emails in CSV or EML format. To get MBOX, you may need third-party tools to merge EML files into MBOX. However, this method has some drawbacks:

  • Time-consuming, especially for large PST files.

  • Cannot always maintain the folder structure.

  • Risk of losing attachments or metadata.

Due to these limitations, many users prefer a professional converter tool.

2. Using Automated Tool (Recommended)

The easiest and most reliable way is using a tool like Advik PST to MBOX Converter. This software ensures a safe, fast, and accurate conversion while keeping your emails, attachments, and folder hierarchy intact.

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Download and Install the Tool
    Download Advik PST to MBOX Converter from the official website and install it on your system. A free demo version is available to test the software.

  2. Add PST File
    Launch the software and click on “Add PST” to select your Outlook PST file.

  3. Select MBOX as Output Format
    From the list of export options, choose MBOX as the output format.

  4. Choose Destination Folder
    Select a location on your system where the converted MBOX file will be saved.

  5. Start Conversion
    Click the Convert button. The software will quickly export all emails, attachments, and folders into MBOX format without any data loss.

  6. Import MBOX to Email Client
    Once the conversion is complete, you can import the MBOX file into Thunderbird, Apple Mail, Evolution, or other supported clients.

Key Features of Advik PST to MBOX Converter

  • Supports all versions of Outlook including 2021, 2019, 2016, 2013, 2010, and earlier.

  • Maintains original folder structure, metadata, and attachments.

  • Allows batch conversion of multiple PST files at once.

  • Compatible with Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 8, 7, XP, and Vista.

  • Provides a free demo version to test conversion before purchasing.

Tips for a Smooth Conversion

  • Always backup your PST file before starting the conversion.

  • Close Outlook to avoid file conflicts.

  • Use the demo version first to check the software’s functionality.

Conclusion

Converting PST to MBOX is crucial when moving from Outlook to other email clients. While manual methods exist, they are often tedious and prone to errors. Advik PST to MBOX Converter offers a fast, secure, and reliable solution, ensuring your emails, attachments, and folders remain intact. With its intuitive interface and batch processing capability, it’s the perfect tool for professionals, businesses, and individual users alike.

Start your free trial today and migrate your Outlook emails to MBOX effortlessly!