Convert OLM to MBOX file with Attachment Best Guide

Written By Md Shoaib
Updated on September 22nd, 2025

Daniel Query: “I recently moved from MS Outlook for Mac to Apple Mail. Therefore, all my old emails are saved in OLM files. How can I convert olm to mbox online, along with attachments, so I can import them into Apple Mail?”

Introduction: This situation is very common. Therefore, OLM is the default file format used by MS Outlook for Mac to store emails, contacts, calendars, and other mailbox data. However, these files are not suitable with other email clients, including Apple Mail and Thunderbird. Users mostly need to convert OLM to MBOX files with attachments for better accessibility. In this guide, we’ll cover both manual and professional solutions, i.e, the CloudMigration OLM Converter tool to move OLM to MBOX efficiently.

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Real-Life Scenario:

You are moving from Outlook for Mac to Apple Mail on your MacBook. All your emails are stored in OLM files, but Apple Mail does not support this format. Without conversion, you cannot view your emails or attachments. By converting OLM to MBOX, you can import the OLM file into Apple Contacts or Thunderbird easily. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that all messages and attachments remain intact.

Table of Contents

Why do you need to convert OLM to MBOX?

Here are some various reasons why users choose to convert OLM file to MBOX:

First, Apple Mail and Thunderbird support the MBOX format but not OLM.
Therefore, MBOX files provide better accessibility over different email clients.
This conversion ensures that attachments and metadata remain intact or preserved.
Also, the migration process is suitable for both Windows and Mac systems.

Manual Method to Convert OLM to MBOX Free

If you don’t want to depend on any external software or tool, you can work with manual methods. Therefore, there is no direct manual option to convert your OLM to MBOX, but you can use it with the help of an IMAP account (such as Gmail). Moreover, the manual methods are usually not suitable for multiple conversions. Hence, it consumes a lot of time and effort.

Below are the steps to export OLM to MBOX:

Way 1. Using Gmail

Firstly, open MS Outlook for Mac → set up a Gmail account using IMAP.
Now, drag & drop emails from OLM folders into your Gmail account in Outlook for Mac.
After that, wait for the connection → set up the same Gmail account in Thunderbird.
Lastly, from Thunderbird, export the emails in MBOX format.

Limitations of the Manual Method to convert OLM to MBOX:

The process is lengthy and requires multiple email clients.
Moreover, the method needs a stable internet and an IMAP installation.
This method does not guarantee 100% preservation of folder structure.
Thus, it is very time-consuming and not suitable when working with large OLM files.

Professional Solution to Export OLM to MBOX

The most reliable way to switch OLM to MBOX files is by using a professional and reliable OLM Converter Tool. Although manual methods also exist, they consume time and effort. Also, they have several limitations. This automated OLM to MBOX converter online directly moves OLM files into MBOX format without losing any attachments, metadata, or folder structure. Therefore, the solution is suitable for migrating with other file formats, like converting OLM to PST and more. It is a quick, accurate way that works on both Windows and Mac operating systems.

One-Time Service Available
If you don’t want to buy a tool, you can also opt for a one-time migration service. Our support team will safely move your OLM files without any manual effort.

The following are the steps to convert OLM to MBOX:

Firstly, download and install the OLM Converter Tool → Continue.
After that, click on Select File(s)/Folder to add OLM files → Next.
Further, expand the tree structure → Preview the data → Next.
Moreover, choose the OLM file in MBOX format.
Subsequently, apply the filters if required → select a destination path → Start Process.

Benefits of a Professional Tool to Convert Mac Outlook OLM Files to MBOX:

First, it converts single or multiple OLM files into MBOX at once.
Though the tool ensures attachments and metadata remain intact.
Also, provides advanced filters for selective migrations. AI has the feature to convert with different email clients, like import OLM files to Office 365.
Therefore, it maintains the original folder structure intact during export.
The reliable tool has a user-friendly interface that is suitable for all users.
Lastly, compatible with both Windows and Mac systems.

Conclusion

To sum up, converting OLM to MBOX is essential when moving from Outlook for Mac to Apple Mail, Thunderbird, or other MBOX-based email clients. While a manual IMAP method exists, it is time-consuming and limited. For a faster, safer, and more reliable approach, the OLM Converter Tool is the best solution to convert OLM to MBOX. It ensures accurate conversion, preserves attachments, and saves valuable time and effort.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Ans. You need to migrate OLM to MBOX when switching from Outlook for Mac to email clients such as Apple Mail, Thunderbird, or other applications that support MBOX. This ensures smooth accessibility and preserves your emails along with attachments.

Q2. How do I convert OLM to MBOX?

Ans. There are two approaches. Manually, you can use an IMAP account like Gmail to transfer emails from Outlook for Mac and then export them as MBOX from Thunderbird. However, the easiest and most reliable way is to use a professional OLM Migrator Tool that directly switches OLM into MBOX with attachments.

Q3. Is there a way to batch convert multiple OLM files to MBOX?

Ans. Yes, there is an automated converter tool that supports multiple conversions, allowing you to convert multiple OLM files into MBOX format at once. The manual method, however, does not provide this option.

Q4. Is there any risk to my original OLM file during conversion?

Ans. No, reliable tools perform the conversion without altering or damaging your original OLM file. Your source files remain intact, while a new MBOX file is created with all emails and attachments preserved.

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.