Convert MSG to EML: Simple Steps for Seamless File Transfer

Written By Shivam Rathore
Updated on January 19th, 2026

Daniel Woak’s Query: I want to convert my MSG Outlook file to EML because I want to shift to email clients that support EML format. Is there any solution to convert MSG files to EML?

Summary: Do you want a trustworthy method to convert MSG files to EML files without difficulty? In this article, we will explain the procedure to convert MSG to EML files with 100% accuracy. You will learn both manual and professional methods for converting MSG files to EML files. We will use the MSG Converter Tool to convert MSG files to EML files with ease. Read on to learn the simplest and best ways to convert your MSG files to EML files.

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Difference Table: MSG vs EML

You should know the difference between MSG and EML format before you change MSG to EML:

MSG	EML
Stores a single email message in binary format.	Stores email messages in plain text format with standard headers.
It may not be compatible with other email clients without conversion.	It supports other email clients without conversion, such as Thunderbird and Apple Mail
Usually larger in size due to proprietary structure.	Lightweight and easier to share or store in backups.
Attachments are embedded in a way specific to Outlook.	Preserves attachments in a format readable by multiple email programs.
Mostly used in Windows environments.	Works across Windows, macOS, Linux, and other platforms.

Why We Need to Convert MSG File to EML?

Several practical and technical reasons make converting MSG files to EML highly beneficial:

EML works with many clients like Thunderbird, Apple Mail, Gmail, Zoho Mail, and more, unlike MSG, which is Outlook-only.
EML files open in text editors or browsers without needing Outlook.
Ensures easy transfer of emails to macOS, Linux, or other platforms.
Smaller in size and easy to share or upload to cloud storage.
Preferred for header and metadata analysis in investigations.
Great for business record-keeping and data retention.
Simplifies sharing emails across different clients and is accessible anytime, even without Microsoft Outlook.

Manual Method to Convert MSG to EML

In this manual procedure, we will use Microsoft Outlook to convert MSG files into EML format through an indirect method. It is free and simple, but can be cumbersome and may create additional steps for error.

Steps to Transfer MSG to EML:

Firstly, launch Microsoft Outlook on your system.
Then, select and open the MSG file you want to convert.
After that, drag and drop the MSG file into Outlook’s mailbox or folder.
Next, browse to the File menu and click on Save As.
Afterwards, choose the destination folder where you want to save the converted file.
Furthermore, in the Save as type dropdown, select Text Only (*.txt) and click Save.
Thereafter, locate the saved .txt file, right-click on it, and select Rename.
Change the file extension from .txt to .eml.
Finally, when prompted, click Yes to change MSG to EML.

Limitations:

Converting each MSG file individually takes a lot of time, especially when dealing with hundreds or thousands of emails.
There is a risk of losing important email information or formatting.
Email attachments may not convert correctly or may become inaccessible after conversion.
Users may manually change the file extension, which is not a good idea.
Moreover, this approach does not work well for large-scale conversions.

Simple Method to Convert MSG to EML

Get the best MSG Converter Tool to transform numerous MSG files into EML with ease and accuracy. This powerful program allows you to convert MSG emails in bulk with complete reliability. It also supports efficient conversion while retaining email attributes and attachments. The well-designed interface, along with features of the tool, makes it one of the best tools available for both technically and non-technically skilled users.

Steps for MSG to EML Conversion:

To begin with, download and start the MSG Converter Tool.
Then, select MSG File or Folder and click Next.
After that, preview and select the files from the tree structure and hit Next.
Afterward, select EML as the file format and apply the needed filters.
Finally, choose the path to save and click Next.

“The MSG Converter Tool was a huge help! It saved us days of manual labor, and it reliably converts all our MSG to EML with no issues and not a single attachment missing. At last, I would definitely recommend it for anyone dealing with converting large amounts of email.” – Caira Joakes, Associate Analyst, New York

Conclusion

To conclude, in this blog, we saw two methods to convert MSG to EML. The manual method using Microsoft Outlook is an effective choice for personal use or small mailboxes. But if you have a large mailbox and are willing to the accuracy, using MSG file Converter is the only option. It ensures the security, speed, and accuracy during the process of conversion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Does the MSG Converter Tool keep attachments and formatting intact?

Ans. Absolutely. The MSG Converter Tool preserves all attachments, metadata, and original email formatting during conversion, ensuring 100% data integrity.

Q2. Can I convert multiple MSG files to EML at once?

Ans. Yes, the MSG Converter Tool supports bulk conversion, allowing you to convert multiple MSG files into EML format in a single process, saving time and effort.

About The Author:

Shivam Rathore

Meet Shivam, an experienced SEO executive and content strategist. He combines creativity with strategy to craft engaging content that connects with audiences and supports brand goals. With strong expertise in digital marketing and content planning, Shivam helps businesses thrive online.