Why does Outlook Not Import MBOX Files?
MBOX is a mail storage format used by Thunderbird, Apple Mail and other clients. Outlook stores mail in PST files.
The Microsoft import page describes a PST import. Convert the archive first or move the messages through Thunderbird.
| Method | Scope | Cost | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| MBOX to PST converter | Many folders and files | Paid after demo | Large archives |
| Thunderbird and EML files | One folder at a time | Free | Small archives |
How do You Convert MBOX to PST?
Method #1: MBOX to PST Converter (Paid After Demo)
Who it suits. Users with large archives or many folders. Extra application. Windows converter software.
The SysTools MBOX Converter exports MBOX to PST. The vendor page states that you create one PST per source or merge many into one PST.
The vendor page states that Outlook is not required for the export. The page lists Thunderbird, Apple Mail, Eudora, Postbox, SeaMonkey and Google Takeout among the sources.
The extensions .mbox, .mbx and .mbs work. Files with no extension work too.
The Windows demo previews all emails and exports 25 items per folder.
How do You Import the PST Into Outlook?
Import the converted file in classic Outlook with the wizard.
- Select File, then Open & Export and Import/Export.
- Select Import from another program or file, then Next.
- Select Outlook Data File (.pst) and browse to the file.
- Choose how to handle duplicate items.
- Select the destination folder and finish the wizard.
New Outlook for Windows uses another path. Open Settings, then Data files and Import. Select Get started under Outlook Data File (.pst) and follow the prompts.
The Microsoft page states that the imported items go into the destination mailbox. The PST file is not added under Outlook Data Files. Our PST import guide shows the classic steps with screens.
How does Thunderbird Convert MBOX to EML?
Method #2: Thunderbird and ImportExportTools NG (Free)
Who it suits. Users with a small archive. Extra application. Thunderbird and a free extension.
- Install ImportExportTools NG from Tools, then Add-ons in Thunderbird.
- Create a folder under Local Folders.
- Right click the folder and use the ImportExportTools NG menu to import the MBOX file.
- Right click the imported folder and export all messages as EML.
- Drag the EML files into an Outlook folder.
The ImportExportTools NG project page lists EML, HTML, PDF, CSV and plain text exports. The extension imports MBOX and EML files.
The project notes state that MBOX import is valid for Local Folders and not for IMAP folders. Check the folder structure and the message count in Outlook after the move.
Our EML import guide explains the last step.
Which MBOX Guides Come Next?
- Open the file with the open MBOX file in Outlook guide.
- Move Thunderbird mail with the Thunderbird to Outlook guide.
- Move MBOX mail to Microsoft 365 with the MBOX to Microsoft 365 guide.
- Read about the format in the MBOX file format guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Outlook Import an MBOX File Directly?
Microsoft describes a PST import. Convert the archive to PST first or move the mail through EML files.
How do You Import an MBOX File Into Outlook?
Convert it to PST and import the PST. Or export EML files from Thunderbird and drag them into Outlook.
Does the Converter Need Outlook?
No. The SysTools converter needs no Outlook installation, per its product page.
Which Extensions does the Converter Read?
The vendor page lists .mbox, .mbx and .mbs and files with no extension.
How Many Items does the Converter Demo Export?
The Windows demo exports 25 items per folder, per the product page.
Where do Imported Items Go in New Outlook?
Microsoft states that the items go into the destination mailbox.
Does ImportExportTools NG Import MBOX Into IMAP Folders?
No. The project notes state that MBOX import is valid for Local Folders only.
Author's Verdict
Choose the converter for large files and many folders. Choose Thunderbird and EML files for a small file.
Check the folder structure and the message count in Outlook after the import.
Key Takeaways
- Outlook imports PST files and not MBOX files.
- A converter makes the PST with no Outlook.
- Thunderbird exports MBOX folders as EML files.
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