How to Convert PST to MBOX file on Windows & Mac

Written By Md Shoaib
Updated on September 2nd, 2025

Charles Thomas Query: I recently stopped using Microsoft Outlook and switched to Thunderbird. I now have a PST file containing all my old emails, but Thunderbird can’t open it. How can I convert PST to MBOX so I can access my emails in Thunderbird?

Introduction: If you want to switch from Microsoft Outlook to another email client like Thunderbird, Apple Mail, or Eudora. You might face a problem. Outlook uses PST files, while most other email clients use MBOX files. Unfortunately, these two formats aren’t compatible by default. That means if you want to transfer your emails from Outlook to another, you’ll need to convert PST file to MBOX first. In this blog, we will discuss two clear methods: the manual method and a professional CloudMigration PST Converter. Additionally, each method gives you a simple, fast, and dependable way to convert your files without any trouble.

Table of Contents

What Are PST and MBOX Files?

PST (Personal Storage Table) is a file format used by Microsoft Outlook to store all your emails, contacts, calendars, and more.

MBOX (Mailbox) is a more universal format supported by many email clients like Mozilla Thunderbird, Apple Mail, and others.

Simple Steps to Convert PST to MBOX

Firstly, download the CloudMigration Outlook PST Converter.
Now, pick: Select Files or Select Folder to browse the PST file.
Then, you can preview and choose the emails to convert.
Select MBOX as the Saving Format from the given list.
Lastly, use customized features and click Convert.

Quick Solutions:

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Why Convert Outlook PST to MBOX?

There are several reasons why users need to convert their PST files to MBOX:

Switching from Outlook to Thunderbird or Apple Mail.
It helps you to create a backup in a more universal format.
To access old Outlook data without Microsoft Outlook.
Transferring emails between systems (like from Windows to macOS or Linux).

Method 01: Manual Method to Convert PST to MBOX

If you prefer a manual approach and have both Outlook and Thunderbird installed, follow these steps:

First, download Thunderbird from thunderbird.net.
Set up any IMAP-based email account (like Gmail).
Now, add the same email account to your Outlook.
In Outlook, select the emails/folders you want.
After that, drag and drop them into the IMAP folder.
Open Thunderbird, and it will sync the emails from the IMAP account.
Once synced, right-click the folder > ImportExportTools NG > Export folder as MBOX.
In the end, save it to your desired location.

Limitations of the Manual PST to MBOX Conversion

While the manual method to convert your PST to MBOX using Outlook and Thunderbird can work. However, it contains several drawbacks. Here are some key limitations:

Requires both Outlook and Thunderbird to be installed.
Time-consuming and slow for large files.
Risk of data loss or missing attachments.
Transfers emails only, not contacts or calendars.
No batch conversion for multiple PST files.
Also, needs technical knowledge and careful execution.

Method 02: Professional Tool to Convert PST to MBOX

For a quick and bulk conversion, it’s highly suggested to use the CloudMigration PST to MBOX Converter Online. It allows users to convert multiple PST files at once with zero data loss. The tool keeps your email’s original layout, folder structure, and important details intact throughout the conversion process. Also, it eliminates all the limitations of the manual method and offers you a hassle-free solution. With its advanced feature, you can convert PST to EML and other file formats.

One-Time PST to MBOX Conversion
Users who need a one-time conversion. Contact our support team with your PST files, and we’ll handle the migration for you. Moreover, it’s a Budget-friendly and hassle-free conversion.

Step-by-Step Guide to Export PST to MBOX

1. Initially, download the CloudMigration PST File Converter and install it.br>

1. Now, choose: Select Files or Select Folder to upload the PST files.

1. Then, preview (Cross-verify) and select them to convert. Click Next.

1. After that, choose MBOX as the Saving Format from the given list.

Finally, use advanced features and filters. Click Convert.

Exclusive Features of This Utility

Support Several Formats
This tool allows you to convert PST to CSV, PDF, EML, Office 365, and other formats, including File and Email Clients.

PST to MBOX Converter FreeThe demo (Free) version of this tool is available to evaluate its features and performance for a 100% accurate result.

Customized Features
Offer several advanced features: Preview, Remove Duplicate, and more. Also, highly support all versions.

Final Words

In this complete blog post, we discussed several methods to convert PST to MBOX. The manual method and a professional tool. While the manual method is free to use. But it is slow and risk of losing large or sensitive data. That’s why many experts highly recommend using the professional tool. They give you bulk conversion with several advanced features and no worry about data loss. Furthermore, download the free trial today or contact our support team for expert migration help.

Q1. Why would I need to convert PST to MBOX?

Ans: To access or migrate Outlook emails to clients like Thunderbird or Apple Mail that do not support PST files.

Q2. Is there a direct way to convert PST to MBOX?

Ans: Yes, using the CloudMigration PST to MBOX Converter, you can directly convert a PST file to MBOX without any third-party email clients.

Q3. Is it possible to convert a PST file to MBOX format with attachments?

Ans: Absolutely. The tool retains attachments, metadata, email formatting, and folder hierarchy during the conversion.

About The Author:

Md Shoaib

Hi, I’m Md Shoaib! I enjoy writing about technologies and helping my readers with their queries, and I’m always looking for new ways to challenge myself and grow. Professionally, I work as a Digital Marketer, where I specialize in SEO and Copywriting.