Import OLM to Thunderbird: Transfer OLM Files Without Errors
-
Written By
Aradhya Jain -
Approved By
Shivam Rathore -
Updated on
November 17th, 2025 - Read Time
5 minutes
Noah’s Query: I recently transferred from a Mac system and have an OLM file exported from Outlook for Mac. Now I want to open these emails in Mozilla Thunderbird on my Windows PC. But Thunderbird doesn’t support OLM files directly. How can I import OLM to Thunderbird without losing my emails or attachments?
Summary: Outlook for Mac saves mailbox data in OLM format, while Mozilla Thunderbird supports MBOX or EML files. Because of this difference, you cannot directly import an OLM file into Thunderbird. Many users face this problem when switching from macOS to Windows, buying a new PC, or changing email applications for work. The good news is that you can still import OLM file to Thunderbird. This blog explains a simple and professional DRS Softech OLM File Converter for hassle-free conversions, even if you’re not technical.
Why Do Users Want to Convert OLM to Thunderbird?
- Switch from a MacBook to a Windows system.
- Transfer from Outlook for Mac to a free email client like Thunderbird.
- Access old mailbox data without reinstalling Outlook for Mac.
- Moreover, share or archive OLM emails in a universal format.
Can You Import OLM Directly to Thunderbird?
No. Thunderbird has no built-in option to read or open OLM files. To make your OLM data accessible, you must convert OLM to a Thunderbird-supported format like MBOX or EML.
Method 01: Manual Method to Import OLM to Thunderbird
- Firstly, open Outlook for Mac.
- Now, add your Gmail/IMAP account to Outlook.
- Then, create a new folder under your IMAP mailbox.
- Next, drag and drop OLM emails into this IMAP folder.
- After that, open Thunderbird and add the same IMAP account.
- Your imported emails will appear automatically.
Limitations: Manually Migrate OLM Files In Thunderbird
- This method is a slow process for large mailboxes.
- There is no need for a stable internet.
- The manual method may break the folder structure.
- Also, does not support contacts, calendars, or bulk migration.
Professional Tool to Import OLM to Thunderbird
The DRS OLM to Thunderbird Converter Tool is one of the simplest and secure solutions. It imports multiple OLM files, including emails, contacts, and attachments, into Thunderbird at once. With its simple interface, every user can easily use it without needing any technical skills. Offer several advanced features, like Remove Duplicates, Date Filter, and others. Guarantees of no data is lost during the process. A free version of this tool to evaluate its features and performance.
One-Time Transfer Emails from OLM to Thunderbird Service
If you don’t want to buy the tool, you can use the DRS One-Time Service, where experts convert your OLM file securely and deliver the final Thunderbird-compatible data without exposing your personal information.
Simple Steps to Import OLM to Thunderbird
- Primarily, launch the DRS Softech OLM File Converter on your system.
- Now, choose: Select Files or Select Folder to add your OLM files.
- Then, you can preview and select the OLM emails to import.
- Choose (EML) Thunderbird-Supported Format from the given list.
- Lastly, apply advanced features/filters and click Convert.
Why Choose a Tool Instead of a Manual Method?
- There is no need for Outlook for Mac.
- No IMAP setup or syncing issues.
- It helps to import the OLM file to Yahoo Mail.
- Faster and safer for large or multiple OLM files.
Conclusion
In this detailed blog post, we explored several methods to import OLM to Thunderbird. The manual method is free to use and is only used to import a small number of OLM files. So, it’s highly suggested to use the professional tool. They support batch conversion with multiple advanced features that make this process more reliable for many users. A demo version of this software is available to understand its features and save 50 emails per folder.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ans: Yes. You can use a professional OLM to Thunderbird converter tool that directly converts OLM files into Thunderbird-supported formats like MBOX or EML. This method works even if you don’t have Outlook for Mac installed.
Ans: Yes. A reliable tool maintains your original folder hierarchy, email formatting, metadata, and attachments exactly as they were in the OLM file.
Ans: Thunderbird doesn’t support OLM files directly. You must first convert the OLM file to MBOX or use a tool that exports your OLM data straight into your Thunderbird profile.
Ans: The time varies based on the size of the OLM file. Small files take a few seconds, while large mailboxes may take a few minutes. Using a tool speeds up the process significantly.
Ans: Yes. The DRS Softech professional OLM conversion tool supports both Windows and macOS, allowing you to convert and import OLM files on either platform.
