Convert Outlook OST to EML in 2025: A Comprehensive Tutorial

Sometimes, OST files can pose a challenge for users due to their hidden location, automatic recreation, or the existence of multiple files. This is especially true when users want to switch email clients or save their data to another device. In such cases, the EML file format comes to the rescue. EML stands for Electronic Mail, a format used to save individual email messages as standalone files. It is widely supported by many email programs, making it easy to open EML files with various email clients and applications. In contrast, an OST file can only be used with Microsoft Outlook. However, users can convert OST to EML either manually or by using specialized software such as the Cigati OST to PST Converter.

This article will guide you on how to easily convert your emails from Outlook to EML, and we’ll also discuss the reasons why this conversion is necessary, helping you switch email clients or devices without any hassle.

Common Reasons to Convert OST to EML

There are several reasons why users might want to convert OST files to EML. Here are some of the most common:

• OST Files are Outlook-Specific: Your Outlook emails are stored in OST files, but these files are only compatible with Outlook. If you need to access your emails on a different device, you must convert them to EML first.
• EML is More Versatile: EML files are easier to work with and can be imported into different email clients, making them a more practical option for backing up your emails.
• Switching Email Clients: If you’re switching from Outlook to a different email client like Thunderbird or Gmail, EML files are easily imported into these programs, while OST files are not.
• Ease of Sharing: EML files represent individual email messages that can be easily shared or saved to any storage device. Sharing OST files, on the other hand, can be cumbersome.

These are just a few reasons why you might want to convert your OST files to EML. Now, let’s walk through the methods available for conversion.

Top 2 Solutions to Convert Outlook OST to EML

We will present two solutions for converting OST files to EML: one manual method and one automatic method. You can choose the approach that best fits your needs.

Manual Technique to Convert OST to EML

Converting OST files to EML manually is possible using Gmail and Thunderbird. While this method is free, it requires multiple steps. Let’s walk through the process:

Step 1: Configure Gmail with Microsoft Outlook

• Log in to your Gmail account and open Settings.
• Go to Forwarding and POP/IMAP and enable IMAP.
• Click Save Changes to activate IMAP.
• Go to Google Account Security Settings and enable Less Secure App Access.
• Open Microsoft Outlook, click on File, then select Add Account.
• Fill in the required details and complete the validation process. Click Finish.

Step 2: Forward Outlook Emails to Gmail

• In Gmail, create a New Folder.
• Name the folder and select the emails you wish to convert from your Outlook account.
• Drag and drop the selected emails into the new folder.

Step 3: Connect Your Gmail Account to Thunderbird

• Open Mozilla Thunderbird and click on Tools.
• In the dropdown, select Account Settings.
• Click Account Actions and then Add Mail Account.
• Enter the required information (Name, Email, and Password).
• Choose IMAP and click Done.

Step 4: Export EML Files from Thunderbird

• Open your Gmail mailbox in Thunderbird and select the emails you want to export.
• Drag and drop the selected emails to a local folder on your computer.
• These emails will now be saved as EML files.

Limitations of the Manual Method

While this manual approach is possible, it has several limitations:

• It is not suitable for large data conversions.
• The process can be time-consuming and complex.
• There is a risk of data loss or corruption during the conversion.
• The method does not have an easy way to simplify the process.

Modern Technique: Using the Cigati OST to EML Converter

For those seeking a more efficient, automated solution, the Cigati OST to PST Converter offers a powerful and reliable way to convert OST files. This tool can handle even disconnected OST files and allows users to convert multiple emails at once. The software also supports conversions to other formats, such as MSG, MBOX, and more. Below are the steps to use the Cigati OST to EML Converter:

Steps to Convert OST to EML Automatically:

• Download, install, and run the Cigati OST to PST Converter on your system.
• Click Add File and select the OST file you want to convert.
• Once the OST file is loaded, click OK to proceed.
• Preview the OST mailboxes before converting them.
• Click Save and choose the destination folder to save the converted EML files.
• After selecting the destination path, click OK to begin the conversion process.
• Once the conversion is complete, you will have your EML files ready for use.

Wrapping Up

Converting OST emails to EML can be a challenging task, especially when done manually. The manual method can be time-consuming and is prone to errors or data loss. On the other hand, using an automated tool like the Cigati OST to EML Converter can save you time and effort, making the process much easier and more reliable. While both methods have their pros and cons, opting for the automated solution is often the preferred choice, especially when dealing with large volumes of data. Ultimately, choose the method that best suits your needs for converting OST files to EML.