How to Export Gmail Email to MSG: The Complete Guide

Written By Simran Bhatia
Updated on May 14th, 2026

User Query:

I’ve been trying to figure out how to save my Gmail emails as MSG files. I need to open them in Outlook, and I’ve searched a lot, but couldn’t find anything. Is there a reliable way to do this? If there’s a free manual method, I’d love to try that first before spending money on software.

Summary: A lot of people get stuck when they want to export Gmail Emails to MSG, but can’t because Gmail doesn’t export directly to MSG. This becomes a real headache, especially when you need to preserve attachments, metadata, and email threads. This blog walks you through the whole process. We will start with a manual method you can try at no cost, then cover the CloudXena Gmail Backup Tool as a faster, more reliable option.

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When Is It Needed to Save Gmail Messages as MSG?

You’re switching from Gmail to Outlook and need emails in MSG format.
You want to back up important client conversations before permanently deleting your Gmail account.
Need to receive emails in MSG to open them in Microsoft Outlook.
You’re migrating business emails to a new system that only accepts the MSG file format.
Some email archiving tools only support MSG files, so conversion becomes necessary at that point.

Manual Workaround to Export Gmail Emails to MSG

These methods can be used to save Gmail emails in the MSG format, but there are some limitations with them. You can save only one email at a time, which can be time-consuming. So if you have a huge mailbox to migrate, you can use the automated tool.

Save Gmail Emails as MSG Through Microsoft Outlook

Open your Gmail account and enable IMAP from Gmail Settings.
Launch Microsoft Outlook and go to File > Add Account.
Enter your Gmail address and use the app password to complete the login.
After Gmail emails sync with Outlook, open the email you want to export.
Click File > Save As.
Choose the MSG format and select the destination folder.
Finally, save the email.

Export Gmail to MSG Using Drag-and-Drop

Open Microsoft Outlook with your Gmail account connected.
Select the email that you want to export.
Create or open a folder on your desktop or system.
Drag the selected email from Outlook and drop it into that folder.
Outlook automatically saves the email in MSG format.

Limitations of the Manual Approach

You have to save emails one at a time, which makes the process very slow.
These methods are not suitable for exporting thousands of Gmail emails.
Microsoft Outlook installation is required to perform both methods.
There is always a risk of missing some emails or attachments during manual handling.
Gmail account configuration in Outlook can be confusing for non-technical users.

Automated Tool to Export Gmail Emails to MSG Format

The CloudXena Gmail Backup Tool helps you to save your emails from Gmail to MSG format in easy steps. It keeps your emails the same as they were, including attachments and folder structure. Nothing gets lost or reformatted during the process. The tool also works to export Gmail emails to EML files or many other file formats like PST, OST, PDF, DOC, and more. You can also migrate Gmail emails to iCloud, Outlook, Thunderbird, Yahoo Mail, IMAP, and a few other email clients.

Steps to Convert Gmail Emails to MSG

Download the tool and log in with Gmail credentials.

After that, select the files and click Next.

Further, choose the MSG format from the list.

Then, apply the given filters to optimize output and hit Next.

Lastly, save the destination and click Download.

Conclusion

Once you know the steps and pick the right method, the whole process isn’t that hard. The method really depends on your situation. If your mailbox is small, the manual way works fine. But if you have a lot of emails to export Gmail email to MSG, using the software makes more sense. If you are not sure if the tool is right for you? Just try the demo version first before buying anything.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Does Export Gmail to MSG include email attachments?

Ans. Yes, Gmail emails can be saved with attachments in MSG format. If you use Microsoft Outlook or the CloudXena Gmail Backup Tool, the attachments remain linked with the email during the export process. This helps preserve the original email structure and content.

Q2. Is it possible to save Gmail messages as MSG in bulk?

Ans. The CloudXena Gmail Backup Tool allows batch conversion of Gmail emails into MSG format without repeating the process manually.

Q3. How do I convert Gmail emails to MSG without losing data?

Ans. Many users prefer automated software like the CloudXena Gmail Backup Tool because it keeps attachments, metadata, folder hierarchy, and email formatting intact during the conversion.

Q4. Can I export Gmail emails to MSG format using a third-party tool?

Ans. Yes, you can use a professional solution like the CloudXena Gmail Backup Tool to export Gmail emails directly into MSG format. The tool simplifies the process and also supports exporting Gmail emails into other formats such as PST, PDF, EML, DOC, and more.

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.