How to Convert PST to MBOX Format? Quick Solutions

Written By Simran Bhatia
Updated on November 17th, 2025

Summary: At some point, an Outlook user will decide to leave PST and embrace an MBOX-compliant platform (e.g., Thunderbird, Apple Mail, Opera Mail, eM Client, Postbox, or any Linux-based client). The issue? PST and MBOX are not natively compatible. One is proprietary and locked in to Outlook, the other is open-standard. So, if you have years of Outlook emails, attachments, folders, or personal archives inside PST files, then it is crucial to convert PST to MBOX. This post will outline the safest and quickest freeways and a PST File Converter Tool to export PST to MBOX on Windows.

Download Now Purchase Now

Common User Query:

“I’ve just switched to Thunderbird from Outlook, and I need to get all of my old emails with attachments all in place. Is there an easy way for PST to MBOX conversion without losing the folder structure?”

Why the Need to Export Outlook PST to MBOX Arises?

Switching email platforms is one of the biggest reasons for this conversion. Whenever you tend to leave Outlook behind and migrate to Mozilla Thunderbird, Apple Mail, Opera Mail, Postbox, eM Client, or any other Linux client, you need files in MBOX format. This is because it is the only common universal format for all.

Besides this, the other significant reasons for this PST to MBOX file transfer are:

Data is easily transmittable and retrievable in MBOX format.
Generally, the mailing formats differ from organization to organization.
It prevents file corruption that leads to the loss of emails.
MBOX is open source and can be widely used in the future at any time.

Optimal Methods to Convert PST to MBOX Format

We will discuss here the top 2 beneficial methods for this file format conversion. It includes the use of MS Outlook & Mozilla Thunderbird and an automated PST Converter Tool. Here is the brief step-by-step guide for all these methods.

Lengthy Way to Export PST File to MBOX

Here, you need both Outlook and Thunderbird profiles for a smooth conversion. The steps to follow are:

Stage 1: Import PST to Thunderbird

Start the Thunderbird application and from Menu >> Tools, choose Import.
Then, an Import dialog box appears on the screen. Within it, choose Import from Outlook and click Continue.
After that, select the items (Account & Settings, Address Books, Calendars, Mail Messages) that you need to import.
Press Continue, and you will get to check the selected options for the import.
Finally, press Start Import to initiate the process of importing PSTs.

Stage 2: Convert PST File to MBOX

Now, simply install the ImportExportTools NG extension if not already been done.
After that, select Outlook, right-click it, and choose ImportExportTools.
Further, select Folder Export (mbox) >> As MBOX files from the options.
At last, select the folder where to save and tap Select Folder to save and end.

Easy Way to Convert PST to MBOX Quickly

CloudXena PST Converter is a simpler and faster way to bulk save files directly in MBOX format without any mediator application. It has very few steps, a user-friendly interface, and requires no technical skills as unlike the manual method. Additionally, this software maintains your folder structure and data integrity completely with 100% accuracy and precision. Moreover, you get some top-notch filter options along with this tool for simplifying the conversion and management.

Feasible Steps to Export Outlook PST to MBOX

Download and run the PST Converter Tool and click on Next.

Then, choose any of the Select buttons, pick your PSTs, press Open, and once loaded, click Next.

Afterward, choose the folders from the tree, preview them as desired, and click Next.

Further, select the MBOX file format from the listed formats to save your data.

Lastly, apply filters of choice, set a Path to Save, and click Convert to finish the conversion.

This one-click method does it all and also enables you to convert PST to MSG and other formats besides MBOX. So, it is highly considered by all tech experts, IT administrators, business professionals, and individual end users. Moreover, having its Demo Version for a few free conversions and functionality check is a complete bonus.

Conclusion

It is quite simple to convert PST to MBOX manually or professionally with the right steps. Hope this blog helped you well by a detailed explanation about the conversion, formats, and method steps. If you have limited files, free time, and can put in manual effort with active profiles, use the manual method. Otherwise, the ideal choice is to download the professional PST File Conversion Tool for quick and streamlined conversions reliably and precisely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1.How can I efficiently convert PST file to MBOX format with attachments?

Ans. To convert your files with attachments, use the top-notch PST Converter and process a smooth and secure conversion.

Q2. Can I export PST file to MBOX with date-based filtering?

Ans. Of course, yes. The PST to MBOX Converter Tool has a Date Filter for selective file conversion. You only need to input start and end dates, and it will automatically convert for that particular period only.

Q3.What is the reason for converting PST files to MBOX format?

Ans. The main reason to convert PST to MBOX is always the platform switch. The rest lies in its wide compatibility across OS, flexibility, scalability, and portability, with data security.

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.