Convert PST to MBOX Without Outlook on Windows & Mac
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Written By Shital Jha
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Updated on March 26th, 2025
Summary: PST files are made for Microsoft Outlook, so you can’t open them easily without Outlook. But if you need to convert a PST file to MBOX on Windows or Mac without using Outlook, there are other ways to do it. MBOX files work with many email programs like Thunderbird, Apple Mail, and Eudora, which makes it easier to open and move your emails. In this blog, we will explore the best methods to convert PST to MBOX without relying on Outlook, including PST to MBOX Converter and manual approaches.
Understanding the Need to Convert PST File to MBOX
There are several reasons why users may need to convert their Outlook PST file to MBOX:
- If you’re moving from Outlook to Thunderbird, Apple Mail, or another MBOX-based client, you’ll need to convert your emails.
- PST files work only with Windows Outlook, whereas MBOX can be used on both Windows and Mac.
- If you have a PST file but don’t have Outlook, converting it to MBOX allows you to access your emails in other applications.
- MBOX is widely supported and can be easily imported into multiple email clients. Hence, it is a better option for email backups and transfers.
- Since Outlook is a paid service, many users prefer free email clients like Thunderbird, which use the MBOX format.
Top Two Methods to Convert PST to MBOX
There are two effective ways to convert the Outlook PST to MBOX without losing emails or attachments. Whether you prefer a manual approach or a professional utility, both methods ensure a smooth conversion process. Below, we will explore the top two methods to help you effortlessly convert PST files to MBOX.
Solution 01: Manual Solution to Convert Outlook PST file to MBOX
You can manually convert PST to MBOX using email clients that support both formats. Since there is no direct way to save a PST file as MBOX, you need to follow a few steps. This process uses Outlook and an MBOX-supported email client like Thunderbird. Below, we will show you the step-by-step method to move your emails.
Step 01: Import PST File into Outlook
If your PST file is not already in Outlook, import it using these steps:
- Open Outlook>>File>>Open & Export>>Import/Export.
- Select Import from another program or file >>Next.
- Choose Outlook Data File (.pst)>>Next.
- Browse and select your PST file, then click Next.
- Choose the folder to import (or select the entire file)>> Finish.
Step 02: Convert Outlook PST file to MBOX using Thunderbird
- After importing the PST file into Outlook, go to Thunderbird.
- Download and install Mozilla Thunderbird (if not installed).
- In Thunderbird, tap on the Import option>> Import from Outlook.
- Then, hit continue and wait for the import process to complete.
- Next, install the ImportExportTools NG add-on in Thunderbird.
- Now, perform a Right-click on the imported Outlook folder.
- Again, go to the ImportExportTools NG>> Click Export Folder.
- At last, choose a location to save the file and click Select Folder.
- Now, your PST file is converted to MBOX using Outlook and Thunderbird.
Limitations Associated With the Manual Approach
This manual method will help you convert PST to MBOX free. When you perform this manual approach, you will have to go through several challenges:
- The manual process is slow and takes a lot of time.
- There is a risk of losing emails, attachments, or formatting.
- You need both Outlook and an MBOX-supported email client.
- Outlook does not have a direct option to export PST to MBOX.
- If you have large PST files, it may cause errors or crashes.
- The process requires technical knowledge to follow correctly.
Method 02: Simplified Solution to Convert PST to MBOX Without Outlook on Windows & Mac
If you want a quick and hassle-free way to convert Outlook PST to MBOX without Outlook, the DRS Softech PST File Converter is an all-in-one solution to use. This tool allows you to convert PST files to MBOX format easily on both Windows and Mac without requiring Outlook installation. Along with that, it is embedded with an advanced filter for a selective, fast, and secure conversion process.
- No Outlook Required: Convert PST files to MBOX without installing Outlook.
- Batch Conversion: Convert multiple PST files at once, saving time.
- Preserves Data Integrity: Keeps emails, attachments, and formatting intact.
- Compatible with Multiple Platforms: Works on both Windows and Mac.
- User-Friendly Interface: Simple steps make it easy for non-technical users.
How to Convert PST File to MBOX Directly?
- Download & Install the DRS Softech PST File Converter on your system.
- Now, click Select File/Select Folder to add a single or multiple PST files.
- Next, you will get the tree-structured format of selected Outlook data.
- Choose MBOX as the output format from the list of available options.
- After that, select the destination folder to save the converted MBOX file.
- At last, click Convert, and it will process and export the PST file as MBOX.
Know More: Convert PST to ICS
Conclusion
Hopefully, this blog will help you to convert PST to MBOX easily with the given solutions. However, manual methods take more steps and require some technical knowledge. Converting PST to MBOX without Outlook is easier with the DRS Softech PST File Converter. It saves time, preserves data, and works on Windows & Mac without requiring Outlook. For a quick, hassle-free conversion and better understanding of the software, you can use the free version of this utility. It will convert PST to MBOX free.
