Free Methods to Convert PST File to PDF With Attachments

Email is an integral part of communication, especially for professionals. When dealing with large volumes of emails, there may come a time when you need to convert PST file to PDF. PDF files are universally accessible, easy to share, and secure, making them an excellent format for archiving or sharing emails.

This blog will explore two free and effective ways to convert Outlook PST to PDF, including their pros and cons. Whether managing a few emails or a large PST file, this guide will walk you through the best methods step-by-step.

Reasons to Convert PST File to PDF

Microsoft Outlook uses PST (Personal Storage Table) files to store emails, attachments, contacts, and other mailbox data. While PST files are essential for managing emails within Outlook, they’re not portable. You need specialized software to access PST files or convert them into easily accessible formats like PDF. It is widely accepted as a secure and portable document format.

Some reasons to convert Outlook PST to PDF:

• Universal Access: PDFs can be opened on any device without specialized software.
• Easier Sharing: Share important emails as PDF attachments without compatibility issues.
• Data Security: Protect sensitive emails by encrypting or password-protecting your PDF files.
• Space Management: Archive old emails and free up space in your Outlook account.

These benefits make it a smart choice to convert PST to PDF, especially for professionals managing large volumes of emails. Whether you’re archiving emails or preparing them for legal documentation, it is always essential to convert PST file to PDF.

Methods to Export PST File to PDF

The manual method through Outlook is straightforward but limited in scope for small-scale tasks. For larger projects, free tools offer a faster and more comprehensive solution, including attachments and bulk processing.

Method 1: Manual Method Using Outlook

You can manually convert PST emails to PDF for free by installing Microsoft Outlook. However, this method works best for small-scale conversions.

Steps to Convert PST File to PDF Using Outlook

1. Open PST File in Outlook:
   • Launch Outlook.
   • Go to File > Open & Export > Open Outlook Data File.
   • Select the PST file and click Open.
2. Select an Email or Folder:
   • Open the specific email you want to save as a PDF.
   • For bulk conversion, select multiple emails by holding down the Ctrl key.
3. Export as PDF:
   • Click File > Print.
   • Under the printer selection, choose Microsoft Print to PDF.
   • Choose a destination folder and save the PDF.
4. Save Attachments Separately (Optional):
   • Open the email and download the attachments manually.
   • Attachments will not be embedded in the PDF file.

Limitations of the Manual Method

• No Bulk Conversion: Bulk conversion requires repeating the process for each email.
• Attachments Not Included: Attachments must be saved separately and cannot be automatically embedded in the PDF.
• Time-Consuming: Suitable only for a small number of emails.

If you’re looking for a simple way to convert PST file to PDF without external tools, this method is reliable but labor-intensive.

Method 2: Pro PST Converter Tool

This method is an excellent choice for larger PST files or bulk conversion needs. PST Converter enables you to export PST files to PDF efficiently and simplifies the conversion process. This method is fast as well as supports batch file conversion, making it ideal for larger PST files without relying on Outlook.

Steps to Convert PST File to PDF without Outlook

1. Download a professional PST File Converter and Install it on your system.
2. Open the software on your system and import your PST file(s).
3. Browse and select the file you want to convert.
4. Choose PDF as Output Format from the Save As option.
5. Specify the destination folder and click the Convert button to start the process.

Benefits of Free Tools

• Supports Bulk Conversion: Convert multiple emails at once, saving significant time
• Save with or without Attachments: Option to embed attachments directly into the PDF.
• No Outlook Dependency: You can perform the conversion even if Outlook is not installed.

This method makes it easy to convert Outlook data file to PDF for users having large PST files.

Which Method Should You Choose?

The method you choose depends on your requirements and resources:

Manual Method Using Outlook

• Best for: Converting a small number of emails.
• Advantages: No additional software required.
• Disadvantages: Time-consuming and doesn’t support bulk conversion or embedded attachments.

Free Third-Party Tools

• Best for: Handling large PST files and bulk conversions.
• Advantages: Fast, efficient, and includes attachments.
• Disadvantages: It requires a paid version to convert unlimited PST files.

Comparison of Methods

Aspect	Manual Method	Professional Method
Ease of Use	Moderate	Easy
Outlook Dependency	Required	Not Required
Attachments	Not Embedded	Both Embedded and Not-embedded
Bulk Conversion	No	Yes
Speed	Slow	Fast

If you frequently need to convert PST file to PDF, the automated method (PST Converter) is a better investment of time and effort.

Key Considerations Before Converting PST to PDF

1. Backup Your PST File: Always back up your original PST file before conversion (using the manual method) to prevent accidental data loss.
2. Check the File Size: Large PST files may take longer to convert. Split the file if needed for smoother processing.
3. Choose the Right Tool: Ensure you choose a reliable method that supports attachments.
4. Organize the Output: Save your PDF files in labeled folders for easier access and organization.
5. Repair Corrupt PST: If you have corrupt or orphaned PST files, recover them using a PST repair tool.

Conclusion

Converting PST files to PDF offers unparalleled convenience for archiving, sharing, and managing email data. Following the abovementioned methods, you can easily convert PST file to PDF for free. The manual method via Outlook works well for small-scale needs. However, the automated tool is the best choice for bulk conversions or to save time. Both methods ensure that your emails and attachments are preserved in the universally accessible PDF format.

Most Trending Questions