Best Ways to Convert MBOX to MSG File Format: Complete Guide

What MBOX & MSG File are?

MBOX File: An MBOX file is a mailbox format used by several email clients like Mozilla Thunderbird, Apple Mail, Eudora, and Entourage. It stores a collection of email messages in a single plain text file, where each message is listed one after the other. This format is good enough to store emails, but not compatible with Microsoft Outlook.

MSG File: An MSG file is an Outlook-specific format to save individual email messages. It contains the message body, metadata (like sender, date, and subject), and attachments. These files are compatible with Microsoft Outlook and Microsoft Exchange.

Understanding the Need to Convert MBOX File to MSG

MSG often offers distinct advantages, especially for Outlook users. Here’s why the MSG format is generally considered better than MBOX:

• MSG saves each email as a separate file; MBOX stores all messages in a single file.
• With the MSG file, it will be easy to manage or share individual emails.
• Apart from that, MSG is fully supported by Microsoft Outlook, while MBOX is not.
• Moreover, MSG is preferred in legal and enterprise environments where isolated email records are needed.
• Also, it maintains complete email properties, including sender, subject, timestamps, and attachments.
• With separate files, there’s less risk of entire mailbox corruption compared to MBOX.

Because of these advantages, MSG is usually the best option when you need to manage emails carefully.

Simple Techniques to Convert MBOX to MSG Format

Now, explore some practical and reliable methods to convert MBOX file to MSG smoothly. You can choose a manual approach or a faster automated solution according to your preference. These step-by-step procedures will guide you through the process with ease.

Method 01: Convert MBOX to MSG File Format Manually

You can use Mozilla Thunderbird and Microsoft Outlook together to manually convert MBOX to MSG. However, this method works well if you have a small number of emails and want a free solution. Now, perform the given steps to change MBOX to MSG: 

Step 1: Import MBOX File into Thunderbird

• Firstly, install Mozilla Thunderbird on your computer.
• Now, add the ImportExportTools NG add-on in Thunderbird.
• Then, open Thunderbird>>Tools>>ImportExportTools NG>>Import MBOX file.
• In the next step, select and import your MBOX file into Thunderbird.

Step 2: Transfer Emails from Thunderbird to Outlook

• Now, open Outlook and Thunderbird side-by-side.
• After that, select emails in Thunderbird.
• Next, drag and drop the selected emails into an Outlook folder.

Step 3: Save Emails as MSG Files in Outlook

• In Outlook, open the folder where you dropped the emails.
• Subsequently, select an email, then click File >> Save As.
• Later, choose “Outlook Message Format (*.msg)”.
• Lastly, save it to your desired location.

Note: This manual method is best for small batches. If you have a bulk of email, this method can be quite time-consuming. 

Manual Method: Key Limitations and Issues

Here are some of the points that you should keep when you are proceeding with the manual method: 

• The manual process takes a lot of time for large mailboxes.
• You need both Thunderbird and Outlook on your system. 
• Moreover, bulk export process is not possible with manual method. 
• Some emails or attachments may get lost during transfer.
• Also, beginners may find the steps difficult to follow.
• Email formatting and metadata might not always stay intact.

Method 02: One-Click Solution to Export MBOX Emails in MSG

For individuals and businesses, DRS Softech MBOX Converter Tool stands out as a reliable and efficient solution to convert MBOX to MSG. Users have reported high satisfaction with its features and highlighting its efficiency of user-friendly interface. Moreover, it is beneficial for users to move MBOX-compatible email clients like Thunderbird, Apple Mail, or Eudora to Microsoft Outlook. The batch processing feature handles the quick conversion of large volumes of emails. With support for multiple output formats and email clients, it provides versatile solutions for various needs.

Quick & Simplified Steps to Convert MBOX File to MSG

Now, follow this step-by-step to export your MBOX file into MSG format:

Step 01: Download and install the DRS Softech MBOX File Converter Tool on your Windows or Mac system.

Step 02: Now, click on the “Select File” button to select the MBOX file and click Open to add them.

Step 03: Here, you can get the complete preview of all mailbox data: emails, attachments, dates, and more.

Step 04: From the list of available output formats, select “MSG” as your desired file type.

Step 05: Then, you can utilise the given additional features according to your preference.

Step 06: Now, choose the destination folder where you want to save the resultant MSG files.

Step 07: Lastly, click on the “Convert” button to initiate the conversion of MBOX data.

Bonus Tips: If you also need to work with different file formats, check out our guide on how to convert MBOX emails to HTML format for more email conversion options.

Conclusion

Now, you are aware of the simple and right approaches to convert your MBOX file into MSG format. Manual methods suit small email collections. Keep in mind that it often takes more time and carries a risk of data loss or format errors. On the other hand, professional utility provides a fast and secure option for large mailboxes or business use. Along with that, you will get the demo version, which is helpful to convert MBOX to MSG for free.

Frequently Asked Questions