How to Convert PST to EML File Format with Attachments?

Written By Simran Bhatia
Updated on November 24th, 2025

“I am looking to convert my PST emails to EML to open them in a different email client. The steps that I found on the internet are a little confusing. Is there a safe and simple way to do it with the attachments?”

-John Miller

Introduction: Many users of Outlook often look for a simple way to convert PST to EML, especially when they want to move their emails to another platform without losing the attachments. PSTs only work within Outlook, so converting to EML makes for easier access to the email on the other device. In this blog, we are going to go over the manual methods and introduce a CloudXena PST Converter Tool to convert PST into EML files with attachments, so that you can easily open your mailbox wherever you need to.

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Why Do Users Need to Export PST to EML?

Moving PST files to EML is useful when you want to access your email more easily, or when it is time to migrate email clients. Here are some simple reasons why users like to switch:

PST only works in Microsoft Outlook, so moving to EML would be helpful if you need to switch email clients.
For legal uses, EML is a good choice because each EML file has one message in it.
PST files are generally large and can be corrupted; EML files have a consistent, stable data structure.
Developers prefer EML because it is more straightforward to analyse and integrate programs due to its being plain text.

How to Convert PST to EML Manually?

Manual conversion is possible, but it fully depends on the email apps you already have on your system. These methods work only when you need to convert a few emails because each message has to be saved one by one. For light or occasional tasks, the manual approach is manageable.

Method 1: Convert PST File to EML Using Outlook for Mac

If Outlook for Mac is installed, you can easily pull out a few emails from a PST file. Just open the PST mailbox, choose the email you need, and drag it to your desktop. The message gets saved as an EML file automatically. This method is simple but suitable only for small conversions.

Follow the Steps Below to Save PST to EML:

To begin with, launch Microsoft Outlook on your Mac.
Then, log in with your Outlook account details.
Locate and open the PST file that contains the emails you want to convert.
After that, select the email you wish to extract.
Simply drag that email and drop it onto your Desktop.
Finally, the message will automatically be saved in .eml format.

Method 2: PST to EML Conversion Without Outlook Directly

Thunderbird also allows you to save PST emails in EML format once the data is imported. After the mailbox appears in Thunderbird, select the required messages, right-click, and use the Save As option to store them as EML files. It’s easy, but it works best only for limited, one-by-one exports.

Follow the steps below:

Firstly, launch the Mozilla Thunderbird application on your computer.
Then, go to Tools > Import > Mail, and click Next to move ahead.
Choose Outlook as the source and press Next again.
After the emails are imported, select the required messages, right-click, and choose Save As.
Finally, pick a location where you want the files to be saved in .eml format.

Limitations:

These methods work only for a few emails, not large PST files.
You must install Outlook for Mac or Thunderbird, which may not suit everyone.
Converting emails one by one is slow and repetitive.
There is a chance of missed emails, formatting issues, or attachment errors.

Secure Way to Convert PST to EML Quickly

The PST Converter Tool offers a straightforward way to change PST files into EML without any hassle. It supports several formats like convert PST to MBOX, MSG, PDF, etc, and works smoothly with different email clients. You can upload multiple files at once, apply filters, and even remove duplicate emails. The preview feature lets you quickly look over your emails before saving them, so you can be sure everything is in place. With this, the whole process of moving your emails becomes faster, easier, and far more comfortable to manage.

Steps to Convert Outlook PST to EML

Firstly, download CloudXena PST File Converter Tool.

Then, select and add the PST file/folder and click Next.

After that, preview and select the file and click Next.

Now, in the file format section, choose EML.

Finally, apply filters, select the path to save, and click Convert.

Conclusion

To conclude, in this blog, we learned about various methods to convert PST to EML. The right choice really depends on how much data you want to move and how familiar you are with the process. Manual methods are free, but they can feel tricky and may lead to small mistakes. A professional CloudXena PST File Converter Tool, however, gives you a smoother and more accurate conversion while keeping your emails safe. It’s a reliable option for both personal and professional use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is it possible to convert a PST file to EML without having Outlook installed?

Ans: Yes, you can convert PST files to EML without Outlook by using a third-party PST to EML converter tool. These tools directly read the PST file and export emails in EML format without depending on any email client.

Q2: Can I convert PST files to EML in bulk?

Ans: Yes, bulk conversion is possible if you use a professional CloudXena PST to EML converter. These tools let you add multiple PST files at once and export all emails together, saving time and reducing manual effort.

Q3: Will other email clients be able to open the converted EML files?

Ans: Absolutely. EML files are supported by many email programs like Thunderbird, Windows Mail, Apple Mail, and several others. Once converted, you can open, read, or move these EML messages across different platforms without any issues.

Q4: What is the best method for converting PST to EML?

Ans: The safest and most reliable method is to use a dedicated CloudXena PST to EML converter tool. Manual methods work only for a limited emails and often involve risks. A specialised tool ensures accurate conversion with complete data integrity.

About The Author:

Simran Bhatia

I, Simran Bhatia am a Technical Content Writer specializing in data management, email migration, and data recovery IT solutions. My focus is on simplifying complex processes into clear, practical guides that combine technical accuracy with real-world value for IT admins, decision-makers, and everyday users. For me, writing is not just about explaining technology, it’s about making it accessible, reliable, and valuable for readers.