How to Convert EML to PST Manually and Import into Outlook?

Email migration is a necessity for users of all sizes today. Switching from an EML-supported email client to Microsoft Outlook is not easy because Outlook uses PST (Personal Storage Table) files, while EML files create a copy of each email. Both manual and automated solutions can be used, depending on the situation.

In this article, you will learn:

1. What are EML and PST file formats?
2. Manual method to convert EML to PST
3. Drawbacks of the manual method
4. Top 5 EML to PST converter tools for fast and secure migration

What is the EML file format?

An EML file is a standard email message format used by many popular email clients such as Windows Live Mail, Mozilla Thunderbird, Apple Mail, Outlook Express, etc. Each EML file contains a single email with its subject, sender's name, recipient's name, date, message body, and attachments. However, it cannot be opened directly in Microsoft Outlook, which is why conversion is necessary.

What is a PST file and why is it important?

A PST file is a native Outlook data file that easily saves all types of data, including emails and attachments, as well as other data such as contacts, calendars, tasks, notes, etc. To access EML emails in Outlook, users must first convert the data to PST format.

Manual method to convert EML to PST and import into Outlook

Microsoft Outlook does not have a direct built-in option for users to convert EML to PST. However, users can manually drag and drop EML files to import them into Outlook and then export them to a PST file, which you can also use.

This requires that Microsoft Outlook is installed and configured, and that the EML files are present on your system. 

Step 1: Open Microsoft Outlook

Launch Outlook and ensure your email account is properly configured.

Step 2: Create a new folder in Outlook

Create a new folder by right-clicking on your mailbox.

You can name it EML or anything you like.

Step 3: Open the folder containing the EML files

Navigate to the folder where the EML files are stored.

Step 4: Drag and drop the EML files into Outlook

Select all or specific EML files and drag and drop them into the Outlook folder.

Outlook will automatically convert the EML files into Outlook-readable email items.

Note - If the preview is not visible, you may need to install an add-in.

Step 5: Export the imported emails to a PST file

If you want the data in a PST file, you can export it from Outlook.

• Go to File → Open & Export → Import/Export
• Select Export to a file
• Select Outlook Data File (.pst)
• Select the imported folder
• Save the PST file to your preferred location.

Now you have successfully exported EML file to PST file format with attachments. Now lets check the limitation of manual method.

Limitations of the Manual EML to PST Conversion Method

If you have decided to use the manual method, you should also be aware of some of its limitations so that you are prepared beforehand.

• This method is not effective if you have more than one mailbox because the data is being modified internally. This can be even more difficult with valuable data, so create a backup beforehand.
• To maintain the original folder structure, you will have to create each folder manually.
• There is a higher risk of data loss or missing attachments, so a backup is essential.
• It can also take more time with large mailboxes because each one has to be done separately.
• You cannot convert corrupted EML files manually.
• Technical knowledge is required to troubleshoot conversion problems.

Due to all these shortcomings, most users look for a professional EML to PST converter tool that delivers quick results. Here, we have selected the top-rated EML to PST conversion tools from several email solutions, trusted by IT professionals and businesses worldwide.

Top 5 EML Converter Tool for Windows

1. MailsDaddy EML to PST Converter Tool

MailsDaddy EML to PST Converter is a reliable and advanced solution for converting EML files to PST format without data loss. It offers several features such as bulk EML to PST conversion, selective data conversion, etc. It automatically maintains the folder hierarchy, ensuring your attachments and metadata remain intact. This EML converter supports all Outlook and Windows systems.

2. SysTools EML to PST Converter

SysTools provides a secure and efficient solution for large-scale email migration. It features batch conversion and email filtering, giving you secure output. It is compatible with all EML email clients and maintains the data structure.

3. Stellar Converter for EML

Stellar offers a powerful and easy-to-use EML to PST migration tool. It is quite simple and delivers quick results. It doesn't have as many features as other conversion tools. However, its user-friendly interface is excellent and maintains high data accuracy.

4. Kernel for EML to PST Converter

Kernel is known for its data recovery and email conversion utilities. Its EML converter performs fast EML to PST conversion. It preserves the original email formatting throughout the entire process. It is compatible with all Windows versions.

5. Aryson EML to PST Converter

Aryson provides an affordable and lightweight EML to PST solution. It converts multiple EML files simultaneously, preserves email properties, allows selective conversion, and features a simple and easy-to-use interface.

Final Verdict

Manually converting EML to PST and then importing it into Outlook is fine as long as it's a single folder. For large-scale email migration, business use, or to ensure no data loss, a professional EML to PST converter tool is the best option. Consider using reliable tools like MailsDaddy EML to PST Converter, SysTools, or Stellar.