Complete Guide to Convert Outlook OST File to EML Format

Sign in to Thunderbird with your email account information. Now click on the Thunderbird menu and select Account Settings.

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May 7, 2026 - 12:16
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Summary: Outlook uses OST files to save mailbox data offline. Many email services support EML files; therefore, they are great for archiving and compliance. Most of the customers convert OST to EML format for easy access and administration. The conversion to EML allows you to save the email individually, and it can be easily retrieved and used in other email apps and systems. This page provides easy, step-by-step directions to take you through the conversion. You may also try OST to EML Converter for an easy solution. This converter program easily converts the OST file into several file formats and email clients.

Reasons to Convert OST Files to EML Format

Some of the reasons for which OST files have to be converted to EML format are:

  • EML files are compact and easy to transfer, exchange, and move across workstations.
  • If the OST file is corrupt, then emails can be recovered by conversion.
  • The EML format is perfect for backing up an email for archiving.
  • Unlike OST files, EML does not require an Exchange server connection.
  • So, converting emails to EML helps in moving emails to other platforms or clients.

Simple & Free Way to Convert OST to EML File Format

Here is a free solution for converting OST to EML file type using Microsoft Outlook and drag-and-drop. It’s manual but works well for simple adaptations.

Step 1. Configure Gmail in the Microsoft Outlook program.

  • Open Gmail on your PC in a web browser and sign in to your account.
  • Next, click on the gear icon in the upper right corner and select See all settings.
  • Next, click the Forwarding and POP/IMAP tab.
  • Now open the Microsoft Outlook application on your computer.
  • Here, under Info, go to the File tab and select Add Account.
  • Now enter your name, Gmail address, and password.
  • Outlook will set up the account for you immediately. When finished, click Finish.

Step 2: Convert OST to EML File Format by Using Thunderbird

  • Download and install the Mozilla Thunderbird program.
  • Sign in to Thunderbird with your email account information.
  • Now click on the Thunderbird menu and select Account Settings.
  • In the Account Settings window, click Account Actions, and click Add Mail Account.
  • Add your Gmail account with your ID and password.
  • Click Finish when the configuration is complete. Now you will see your Gmail mailbox in Thunderbird.
  • Open the folder where the emails you wish to convert are stored, e.g. Inbox, Sent etc.
  • Select the email(s) you want to export.
  • Then right click on it and choose Save As.
  • How to Save Emails Choose the folder to save to.
  • Thunderbird exports all selected emails to the destination you choose in .eml format.

Automated Solution to Convert OST to EML

Softaken OST to EML Converter is one of the most recommended tools to convert Outlook OST files to EML format. Supports OST files of all Outlook versions, including the latest and previous versions. The tool maintains all email characteristics and elements throughout the conversion. With its extensive capabilities and user-friendly design, it is perfect for both technical and non-technical users. Also, the users can quickly import OST files to numerous email applications. In addition, the software is 100% compatible with all Windows versions.

How to Export OST to EML File in Detail

  1. Download and install the OST to EML converter tool.
  2. Now select Single File or Multiple Files.
  3. Click the Select File button and browse to the OST file from your system you want to.
  4. Then select the file or folder you wish to export and click Next.
  5. Select the file formats from the list and choose EML.
  6. If you need to, you can tailor the export using the built-in filter options.
  7. Choose a target folder where you want to save the converted EML files.
  8. Finally, press the Convert button.

Conclusion

After reading the full blog, you will be clear on how to convert OST to EML format. We looked at other ways to do the conversion. The manual method is accessible, but it can be time-consuming and difficult for beginners to use. Hence, the proposed converter tool provides a more efficient and user-friendly solution. It guarantees safe conversion and storage of all your crucial Outlook emails and data without any technical knowledge