Convert OST to EML Format: Easy and Secure Methods

OST files are created by MS Outlook with the intention to store mailbox data on a local system. However, these files cannot be opened in most other email programs. Because of this, many users look for a way to convert OST files into EML format, which is supported by popular email clients like Thunderbird, Windows Mail, and others.

Summary: In this blog, we will explain the main reasons for converting OST to EML and share both manual ways and a professional OST to PST Converter Tool to complete the task. The methods discussed help users move their emails safely while keeping attachments and folder structure intact. Read further to understand the conversion process in a clear and easy way.

Why We Need to Convert OST Files to EML?

  • Converting to EML lets users access emails without Outlook.
  • EML files work with many email clients like Thunderbird and Apple Mail.
  • Emails save separately, making it easier to store and back them up.
  • The EML file format is useful for legal and compliance purposes.
  • EML files are easy to share compared to OST files.
  • Emails can be recovered even from orphaned or corrupted OST files.
  • Additionally, EML files opens on both Windows and Mac systems.

Traditional Method to Convert OST to EML File Format

This is a manual and free method to convert OST emails to EML format using Outlook and Thunderbird. It works best when you have a small number of emails to convert. If you want accurate results from this OST to EML conversion, follow each step carefully.

Step 1: Add Gmail Account to Microsoft Outlook

  1. To begin with, open Gmail in your web browser and sign in.
  2. Then, click the Settings (gear icon) and select See all settings.
  3. After that, go to the Forwarding and POP/IMAP tab and make sure IMAP is enabled.
  4. Now open Microsoft Outlook on your computer.
  5. Thereafter, click File -> Info -> Add Account.
  6. Afterwards, enter your name, Gmail address, and password.
  7. Outlook will auto-configure the account.
  8. At last, once setup is complete, click Finish.

Now, move the required emails or folders by dragging them from your OST mailbox and dropping them into the connected Gmail folder.

Step 2: Export OST to EML Using Thunderbird

  1. Firstly, download and install Mozilla Thunderbird.
  2. Then, open Thunderbird and sign in using your email details.
  3. Click the menu icon and open Account Settings.
  4. After that, select Account Actions -> Add Mail Account.
  5. Enter your Gmail ID and password to add the account.
  6. After setup, your mailbox will appear in Thunderbird.
  7. Open the folder (Inbox, Sent, etc.) that contains the emails.
  8. Afterwards, select the emails you want to convert.
  9. Thereafter, right-click on the selected emails and choose Save As.
  10. Finally, pick a location on your system to save the files.

Thunderbird will save the selected emails in EML format at the chosen location.

Limitations:

  • No bulk export option for folders or complete mailboxes at once.
  • Not suitable for orphaned, corrupted, or inaccessible OST files.
  • This method is not ideal for business or professional use where accuracy and speed matter.

Expert-Favoured Method to Convert OST to EML

The OST to EML Converter is a reliable option for converting Outlook OST files into EML format. It works with OST files created in all Outlook versions, including both old and latest editions. During the conversion, the tool keeps email details like sender, receiver, subject, attachments, and formatting intact.

The software is easy to use, so even users without technical knowledge can operate it without trouble. Along with EML conversion, it also allows users to import OST data into Office 365, Gmail, and other email clients. The tool runs smoothly on all Windows and macOS versions, making it a flexible solution for different systems.

Steps to Change OST to EML:

  1. To begin with, download the OST Converter Tool.
Convert Google Docs to Word step 1
  1. Then, add the OST files or folder and click Next.
Convert Google Docs to Word step 2
  1. After that, preview and select the file, and click Next to proceed.
Convert Google Docs to Word step 3
  1. Choose EML as a file format.
Convert Google Docs to Word step 4
  1. Finally, apply the required filter, set the destination path, and click Convert.
Convert Google Docs to Word step 5

Conclusion

Now you have a clear idea of how OST files can be converted into EML format. We covered multiple methods for this conversion. Although manual methods are available, they take more time and can be confusing, especially for new users. Because of this, using a trusted OST to EML converter tool is a better choice. It makes the process easier and helps convert Outlook emails safely without needing any technical knowledge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I convert OST files to EML without Outlook?

Ans: In most manual cases, Outlook is required because OST files are linked to an Outlook profile. However, with a professional OST to EML Converter Tool, you can convert OST files to EML without needing Outlook installed or configured.

Q2: Are attachments preserved when changing OST to EML?

Ans: Yes, attachments are preserved during OST to EML conversion when using a reliable converter tool. Manual methods may sometimes miss attachments, but a professional solution ensures emails and attachments remain intact.

Q3: How can I convert a corrupted OST file to EML?

Ans: Manual methods cannot convert corrupted or inaccessible OST files. To safely convert a damaged OST file to EML, use a professional OST Converter Tool that recovers and exports emails without data loss.

About The Author:

I, Divyanshu Sharma, am a Technical Content Writer with a solid foundation in software and IT. I specialize in data management, email migration, and data recovery solutions, turning complex processes into clear, practical guides. With expertise in SEO, digital marketing, and content strategy, I create user-friendly, highly discoverable documentation that delivers technical accuracy and real-world value for IT admins, decision-makers, learners, and everyday users.

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