How do the Two Tools Differ?
ScanPST is the free Inbox Repair tool that ships with Outlook. Professional PST repair software is a separate paid program that reads a damaged PST file and exports the items to a new file.
| Point | ScanPST | PST repair software |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free with Outlook | Paid |
| Output | Repairs the same file | Exports to a new file |
| Backup | Creates a BAK copy | Works on a copy |
| Preview | No | Yes |
| Suits | Minor errors | Severe damage |
How does ScanPST Fix Errors?
Method #1: Inbox Repair Tool (Free)
Who it suits. Users with a PST file that shows minor errors. Extra application. Outlook.
- Close Outlook and open SCANPST.EXE from the Office folder.
- Select Browse and choose the PST file.
- Select Start.
- Select Repair when the scan lists errors.
- Start Outlook with the profile that uses the file.
Microsoft explains the steps on its page for repairing Outlook data files. The tool creates a backup with a BAK extension in the same folder.
Microsoft notes that one file can need several passes. ScanPST cannot recover items deleted for good.
Where does the Free Tool Stop?
- Inbox Repair fixes errors inside the file and recovers no deleted items.
- Microsoft says the tool does not analyze data in an Exchange mailbox.
- The free tool gives no preview, so you see the result only after Outlook opens the file.
- The tool can fail to start on some Office installs.
Read the guide for when ScanPST does not work or the guide for ScanPST not responding when the tool fails.
When do You Need a Professional Tool?
Method #2: SysTools PST Repair (Paid)
Use it when. ScanPST fails or the file lost items. Extra application. Windows PC.
SysTools PST Repair scans a damaged PST file with a Quick Scan for minor damage and an Advance Scan for severe damage. The vendor lists ANSI and Unicode PST files and a preview of the mail before export.
- Start PST Repair and select Add File.
- Choose the damaged file.
- Select Quick Scan or Advance Scan.
- Preview the recovered folders and items.
- Select Export and save the items to a new PST file.
The demo previews every item and exports 25 items per folder. The paid version exports all items.
Read the comparison of PST repair tools for more options.
Which One should You Use First?
- Use ScanPST first on a PST file with minor errors.
- Use PST Repair software when ScanPST reports no repair or loses items.
- Use PST Repair software when you need to preview items.
- Copy the file before any repair.
Heads Up. Use ScanPST on a copy and not on the only file you own.
Where Else do You Go From Here?
- Follow the guide to repair a corrupt PST file.
- Fix large files with the guide to break a large PST file in Outlook 2007.
- Merge the repaired files with the PST migrator guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do the Two Tools Differ?
ScanPST repairs file errors in the same file. PST repair software exports items from a damaged file to a new file.
Does ScanPST Create a Backup?
Yes. Inbox Repair saves a BAK copy in the same folder unless you rename it or move it.
How Many Passes does ScanPST Need?
Microsoft says one file can need several passes. Microsoft gives no fixed number.
Can ScanPST Recover Deleted Items?
No. Microsoft says damaged items and items deleted for good are not always recovered.
Does the Tool Repair Exchange Mailboxes?
No. Microsoft says the tool does not analyze data in an Exchange mailbox.
When do You Need PST Repair Software?
Use software when ScanPST fails, loses items or when you need a preview of the mail.
Does the PST Repair Demo Export Every Item?
No. The demo previews every item and exports 25 items per folder.
Author's Verdict
Use ScanPST first on minor errors and PST repair software on severe damage.
Work on a copy of the file every time.
Key Takeaways
- Inbox Repair is free and fixes file errors.
- Recovery of items deleted for good is not promised.
- PST repair software previews and exports items.
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