MBOX to PST Converter

Convert your Thunderbird emails into Outlook-compatible PST files.

  • Maintains the original folder structure and metadata properties after the conversion
  • Convert emails, attachments, contacts, calendar events, and tasks
  • Compatible with all versions of Outlook

Product Information

Product name
MBOX 2 PST
Release date
May 2024
Category
MBOX Converter
Platform
Windows
Installation
Additional terms

What's New

Version 1.28
Portable and Installer versions

How to convert MBOX to PST files?

This utility converts MBOX files to PST format, with no limitations on the number of files to be converted. To convert MBOX to PST, follow these steps:

  1. Choose a File or Folder with MBOX files
  2. Select the destination path for the resulting PST files
  3. Optionally, customize additional settings:
    • Process subfolders
    • Replicate folder structure from source path
    • Skip empty folders
    • Create separate PST file for each folder
  4. Click "Run" to convert MBOX to PST files
Usage: mbox2pst64-cli [command] [options]

Command: convert pst
Description: Convert .mbox files to PST format

Options:
  -f, --file      Required. Path to the file(s) to be converted, supporting wildcard characters (*?).
  -q, --query     Search query for filtering messages.
  -p, --path      Destination path for PST files.
  -v, --verbose   Display detailed processing information on your screen.
  --atchm-only    Export only attached emails.
  --mkdir         Create an individual directory for each exported file.
  --srcfolders    Preserve the source folder structure.
  --empty         Include empty folders in the export.
  --storename     Specify the display name of the new Outlook data file.
  --folder        (Default: Inbox) Destination Outlook folder for exported folders and items.
  --split         Create dedicated PST files for each folder.
  --mode          (Default: rename) Overwrite mode. Valid values: rename, append
  

Converting MBOX to PST using PowerShell

MBOX to PST Converter offers command line options for converting emails from .mbox files to PST format. To start the export, use the convert mbox to pst command followed by various options.

One of the key features is the ability to apply a search query to filter messages based on specific criteria, utilizing search keywords and boolean search operators. This allows users to extract only the relevant items they need, saving time and effort.

  • Search query to filter messages based on specific criteria
  • Support different naming conventions and macros for exported files
  • Outlook installation is required for exporting to .pst files

Features

Standalone & Installer versions

MBOX 2 PST can be used as a portable application or installed as a Windows application. Choose the option that best suits your workflow needs.

Microsoft Outlook Requirement

Microsoft Outlook must be installed on your computer to convert Thunderbird files to PST format. Note that cloud-based Microsoft 365 (formerly Office 365) does not support PST exports.

Choose between 32-bit and 64-bit Outlook

We provide both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of the software to match your Microsoft Outlook installation. Make sure the version you select corresponds to the bitness of Outlook, not the Windows OS.

Offline Conversion

The MBOX to PST converter tool does not require internet access, and all data generated by this software is stored exclusively on your device.

PowerShell and Command-Line Application

This option is available exclusively for Technician license users, enabling the software to be run using PowerShell or as a command-line application for enhanced functionality and automation.

Maintain the Original Folder Structure

Our Thunderbird to PST Converter allows you to convert multiple MBOX files to PST format in a single operation, while preserving the original folder structure.

Preserve All Mail Properties

During conversion, the utility saves all supported message data in the PST format, including attachments, embedded emails, signed certificates, and more.

No Limits on the Number or Size of Resulting Files

There are no restrictions on the number of resulting files or files to be converted. Convert an unlimited number of folders or files as often as needed.

1-Click Email Converter

Convert Thunderbird MBOX to Outlook in single click. The program generates report for the data conversion process.

Compatible with all Outlook versions

Convert Thunderbird files to Outlook 2024, Outlook 2021, Outlook 2019, Outlook 2016, Outlook 2013, Outlook 2010 and 2007.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about MBOX to PST Converter? Check out our answers to frequently asked questions below to get started!

Follow these steps to import Thunderbird MBOX files into Outlook:
  1. Download MBOX to PST Converter
    Download and install the MBOX to PST Converter.
  2. Find Your Thunderbird "Local Folders" Directory
    Open Thunderbird, right-click on "Local Folders," and select "Settings." Under "Account Settings," locate the "Local directory."
  3. Convert MBOX Files to PST Format
    Browse for your MBOX files, set your conversion options and click "Run." Wait for the export to complete.
  4. Open the Exported PST File
    Restart Outlook, open the exported PST file, and you should see the imported Thunderbird mailboxes in your Outlook Folders list.

Note: The evaluation version exports up to 15 emails per folder.

An MBOX file stores an entire folder of emails as a single file. Thunderbird MBOX files include:
  • .sbd folders – Maintain folder hierarchy.
  • Message files (MBOX) – Contain your messages and do not have any file extension, such as Archive, Calendar, Contacts, and Inbox.

MBOX and EML are both email file formats, but they differ in structure and use:
  • MBOX: Stores entire folder of emails as one file, used by Thunderbird, Apple Mail, and some UNIX-based clients.
  • EML: Stores each email as a separate file, compatible with Outlook, Windows Mail, and Thunderbird.

No, Microsoft Outlook cannot open MBOX files directly.