How to Convert PST to EML with Attachments Retained – 2025

“How do I open my Outlook PST emails in another email client like Thunderbird without losing the quality of attachments? Should I convert PST to EML or there is any other way? Please suggest the best solution!”

This is the most asked query by users who look for flexible solutions to access Outlook emails across different platforms. Outlook saves its mailbox data in PST format, which other email clients do not support. To open Outlook emails in Thunderbird, Apple Mail, or Windows Live Mail, you need to convert Outlook PST to EML format. EML is a universal format supported by multiple email clients. Whether you want a free manual process or dedicated software like FRT Freeware PST Converter, we have discussed them all. Read till the end.

Why Do Users Convert PST to EML?

If you are a new reader, you might be eager why users need to do this conversion. Therefore, here are some prominent reasons and scenarios that make PST to EML conversion important. This will also help you pick the right method. Such as:

• PST files are only compatible with Outlook and no other email platforms. Whereas, EML is widely supported and can be accessed on platforms like Thunderbird, eM Client, etc.
• EML stores individual messages per file thus are lightweight and also easy to share with others. It occupies minimum space on your system.
• If you are looking to archive or backup a single important email, EML is the best format for that purpose.
• Outlook PST stores many emails collectively, which increases the risk of corruption and data loss. On the other hand, EML stores individual emails and data, minimizing the risk.
• To open PST files, users need Outlook while EML can be accessed on free platforms as well. Thus, it’s a cost-efficient choice.

Now, that you have found the right reason to export Outlook emails to EMLX format/EML, let us know how to do that.

What are the Methods to Convert PST to EML?

There are several methods to save Outlook emails in PST format. We will broadly discuss two approaches: a free manual method and dedicated software. Additionally, we will highlight their advantages and drawbacks. Ultimately, the choice is yours.

Method 1: Export PST to EML Using MS Outlook

Before proceeding, ensure Outlook is installed and configured on your system. If you already have a PST file, import it into Outlook using the Import/Export feature first.

Follow the steps:

1. Open MS Outlook and go to any folder you wish to save.
2. Locate and click on the email in the folder to be saved.
3. Right-click and choose the option “Save As” (it may vary depending on the Outlook version you use).
4. Save dialog box appears. Select Outlook Message Format (.msg) as the saving format.
5. Later, specify the folder where you need to save emails and save.
6. Now, locate the saved MSG file on your system and rename its extension from .msg to .eml.

However, this process may not always provide accurate results and comes with certain limitations:

• This method is limited to Outlook users only.
• The process may vary depending on the version of Outlook.
• Saving emails individually with this process makes it hectic.
• It’s not a good fit when you have to save multiple & large emails.
• In addition, this might risk your attachment files.

Method 2: Convert PST File into EML Using Thunderbird

Comparatively, using Thunderbird is a better solution. You need first to install Mozilla Thunderbird on your PC. One of the advantages is that it is a free email client. Follow the given steps:

Step 1: Import PST into Thunderbird

1. Open Thunderbird on your system, go to the menu, and choose Tools.
2. Click on the Import… option and select Import from Outlook. Click Continue.
3. Next, choose what to import- ‘Mail Messages’ and Continue.
4. Tap on the Start Import button to begin importing and then, Finish.

Step 2: Export Emails to EML

1. Refresh the Thunderbird mailbox and choose an imported email or entire folder to export.
2. To save all emails, press Ctrl+A, or you can save single emails too.
3. Right-click on the selected emails and select the Save As option.
4. Define the saving destination, and click Save to convert PST file into EML.

Locate the destination folder to find the saved emails in EML format. However, you may encounter these restrictions:

• You need to install both Outlook and Thunderbird.
• Also, converting emails in bulk is a tedious task.

To overcome the limitations of PST to EML conversion, consider using dedicated software as an effective alternative.

Method 3: Direct Method to Convert PST to EML

If you have multiple PST files, this method is the most reliable and efficient. Choose FRT Freeware PST Converter for a quick, secure, and direct solution that doesn’t require installing additional applications like Thunderbird or Outlook. Its straightforward process is user-friendly, even for beginners. Additionally, the software is compatible with all Outlook versions.

How to Export PST to EML Using PST Converter?

Below are the steps you need to follow for quick conversion:

1. Launch the PST Converter on your PC.
2. Browse and select Outlook PST you need to convert.
3. The tool scans it first and shows the mailbox preview.
4. Select folders from Preview and choose Export.
5. Specify the saving directory on your system.
6. Next, select the ‘Save to EML’ format from the panel.
7. Finally, tap on the Convert Now button and begin saving PST to EML.

This was a simple procedure you need to perform with the suggested software. 

What are the Advantages of the PST Converter?

• Let users convert multiple PST files into EML at once.
• Supports large PST files with attachments as well.
• Retains all email components, like attachments and formatting.
• Compatible with Outlook 2021, 2019, 2016, and earlier versions PST files.
• Show a PST preview before conversion to check what you are converting.

These features make the software the best choice for converting PST files to EML.

Conclusion

Backing up important emails is a smart practice. If you’re looking to convert PST to EML, this blog offers valuable insights. We discuss three main methods: manual approaches, which are free but time-consuming and require Outlook or Thunderbird, and the PST Converter, a hassle-free, efficient solution. Choose wisely for a secure and reliable backup method.

Most Trending Questions