How to Convert PST to ICS With & Without Outlook
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Written By Shital Jha
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Updated on March 26th, 2025
Summary: If you want to use your Outlook calendar in another app or share events easily, you need to change the PST file to ICS format. ICS files work with most calendar apps, so they make it simple to move events from one place to another. But how can you change PST to ICS? You can do it with or without Outlook, depending on what tools you have. In this blog, we’ll explain both ways, including DRS Softech PST to ICS Converter, to convert PST to ICS. So you can pick the one that suits you best. Continue reading the blog to learn the conversion methods in detail.
Major Difference Between PST and ICS File
Understanding the key differences between PST and ICS files helps you manage your calendar better. Both files store calendar events, but they work in different ways and with different apps. Below, we’ll explain the key differences between PST and ICS (iCalender):
| Feature | PST File | ICS File |
| Format Type | Proprietary (Microsoft Outlook only) | Standard (Compatible with most calendar apps) |
| Compatibility | Works only with Outlook | Works with Outlook, Google Calendar, Apple Calendar, etc. |
| File Size | Can be large and bulky | Lightweight and smaller in size |
| Ease of Sharing | Difficult to share, requires Outlook | Easy to share via email or cloud storage |
| Data Type | Stores emails, contacts, and calendar events | Only stores calendar events, making it focused and efficient |
| Export & Import | Requires Outlook or special tools | Simple import/export across multiple platforms |
| Backup & Restore | Can be complex and requires Outlook | Easy to back up and restore on any calendar application |
| Cross-Platform Use | Limited to Windows/Outlook | Works on Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and web apps |
Now, you get that ICS files are better than PST files when it comes to calendar events because they are lightweight, easy to share, and work with multiple apps. If you only need to transfer calendar data, then proceed with the upcoming section to explore the methods:
Two Best Methods to Convert PST to ICS Format
There are two main ways to do it: manually using Outlook or with an automated tool. The manual method works but can be time-consuming and requires Outlook, while a professional tool offers a quicker and easier solution. Below, we’ll explain both methods so you can choose the best one according to your needs.
How to Convert Outlook Calendar to ICS Manually
If you have a PST file and need to convert its calendar data to ICS format, you can do it manually using Outlook. However, you have to go through two different stages, which we will discuss further. Follow these two main steps:
Step 01: Import the PST File to Outlook
Before exporting the calendar, you need to load the PST file into Outlook:
- Open Microsoft Outlook on your computer.
- After that, click on “File” in the top menu.
- Select Open & Export >> click Open Outlook Data File.
- Browse and select the PST file you want to import.
- Click OK, and the PST file will be imported into Outlook.
- It will show your emails, contacts, and calendar data.
Step 02: Export PST Calendar to ICS File Format
Once the PST file is imported, follow these steps to save Outlook Calendars into ICS format:
- To convert PST to ICS, navigate to the Outlook application.
- Click on the Calendar icon in the bottom left corner.
- Select the calendar you want to export.
- Again, click on the File tab of MS Outlook.
- Now, choose Save Calendar from the options.
- In the Save As window, select a location to save the file.
- Choose iCalendar Format (*.ics) from the file type options.
- Click Save to export your calendar as an ICS file.
Now, your Outlook calendar is successfully converted into ICS format, which you can use in Google Calendar, Apple Calendar, or other calendar applications.
Why do users not Prefer the Manual Method?
The manual method lets users convert PST to ICS using Outlook, but it has some issues that make it difficult. Here are the main reasons why people don’t like this method:
- PST export requires Outlook, making it useless if Outlook isn’t available.
- The manual method has multiple steps and takes a lot of time.
- Manual mistakes can lead to missing or incomplete calendar events.
- Outlook doesn’t efficiently export multiple calendar events at once.
- Outlook lacks a direct PST to ICS conversion option.
- The manual process is complex for non-technical users.
Due to these limitations, many people choose automated tools. Further, we will make you introduce to one of the most reliable solutions to convert PST to ICS. This utility is fast, safe, and easy to use.
Quick & Direct Solution to Convert PST File to ICS
If you want an easy way to convert Outlook calendar to ICS, DRS Softech PST File Converter is a good option. It works fast and gives accurate results. Hence, it comes out as the best alternative to the manual method. Also, it lets you export PST to ICS without using Outlook. Moreover, you can perform the bulk conversion of PST files into ICS at once. With its user-friendly interface, even non-technical users can easily export their Outlook calendar events. This utility can frequently work with both old and new PST files. Throughout the conversion process, your calendar data will remain the same as it was. Now, perform the few clicks and convert your PST file to CSV:
Simplified Steps to Convert PST to ICS
- Download and launch the PST to ICS Converter Tool on your system.
- Then, mark the Single File, Multiple Files, or Folder option accordingly.
- Next, click Select Files or Select Folder to upload the desired PST files.
- View emails, folders, and attachments. Choose specific items or all for conversion.
- After that, select ICS as the output format and set the destination folder.
- Use optional filters if needed, then click Convert to start the process.
Know More: Import PST to Gmail
Conclusion
Changing PST to ICS is useful if you want to move or share your Outlook calendar with other apps. You can do it manually with Outlook, but it takes time, needs technical knowledge, and doesn’t provide a direct way to convert PST to ICS. To make the process easier, the recommended ultimate solution is the better option. It lets you export PST to ICS quickly, even without Outlook. As a result, it makes the task simple and hassle-free.
