Safest Way to Convert OST to MSG on Windows And Mac

Core Reasons to Export OST to MSG

To better understand why the need to make the file conversion arose, let’s first understand the difference between the formats. As both of them are supported by Outlook, one must identify what sets them apart. The difference between them is presented as:

OST (Offline Storage Table File)	MSG (Message File)
Cache copy of the Exchange mailbox data stored offline on the local system.	Individual email file with metadata and attachments included
Bound with the original Exchange profile, isn’t accessible if the server is offline or disabled	Independent format accessible with many applications across devices and platforms
Non-shareable	Highly portable and shareable
Suitable only for Outlook users	Suitable for everyone

So, if you make the conversion, one thing is ensured: the metadata preservation and mailbox separation enable better data organization and management. Also, as MSG files are lightweight and take up less space, you save storage.

Best Methods to Convert OST to MSG on Windows and Mac

There are two suitable methods for the OST file conversion. The first one is a manual method using your Outlook, along with some limitations. Another one is a professional software by EasyTechTools for swift and flawless conversion. These are discussed one by one below with complete steps.

Traditional Way to Convert OST File to MSG

If you have your active MS Outlook profile connected with the Exchange server in which the OST was created, then these steps work for you. Follow as:

1. Open Outlook and ensure your OST file is configured and accessible in it.
2. Then, choose the emails and folders you want to export from it.
3. Further, directly drag and drop them into a new folder on the desktop.
4. Outlook will automatically create the MSG files for them.
5. Alternatively, you can use the File >> Save As option to store them as MSG on the OS.

Now, even though this method is free and requires no third-party software, it isn’t very suitable. Here’s why.

Shortfalls of the Method 

• OST must be connected to the Live Exchange Server.
• Highly slow for large OSTs and unsuitable for bulk conversion.
• No support for orphaned, damaged, or corrupted OSTs.
• Not useful for macOS as it saves files in either EML or MBOX format.

Smart Way to Convert OST to MSG

Users who need to perform the OST to MSG file conversion reliably without hampering the data. Get the EasyTechTools OST to PST Converter Tool, which supports all large, bulky, and orphaned OST files for conversion. It allows users to convert OST files without Outlook instantly to MSG in batches at once. Additionally, it retains data integrity and preserves folder structure while addressing all limitations of the manual method. Moreover, it provides 100% accuracy, wide OS compatibility, and a Demo Version for the conversion of 50 emails for free.

Working Guide to Convert OST into MSG

1. Launch the OST File Converter Tool and click Next to proceed.
2. Then, choose the OST files with the Select buttons and open them. Tap Next.
3. Further, preview emails and select them from the tree. Click Next.
4. After that, choose the MSG file format and use the specific filters.
5. Finally, select the destination path for MSG and click Convert.

Client Review “I had tons of old OST files from past workers that were orphaned; around 50 gigabytes total, and this OST Converter turned them all into MSG format within a matter of a few hours and maintained my entire folder structure exactly as it was. I am very pleased with the service and would recommend them.” — Sarah L.

Conclusion

You don’t need to find a process to convert OST to MSG complex because the right solutions make it easy for you. If you are an active Outlook user and have your Exchange-connected profile, then use the manual method for a few conversions. But you can save files one at a time, which is hectic and requires much effort. Instead, get the EasyTechTools OST to MSG Converter and secure your data directly offline on any OS with ease in minimal time with precision and no effort.

Frequently Asked Questions

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