Need to Convert MBOX files to EML Format? DIY Guide

Summary: Unlike EML files that save each message individually with formatting and attachments, MBOX files store emails collectively. Therefore, users prefer to convert MBOX files to EML when switching to an email client like Thunderbird, etc. But, how does this conversion happen? This blog will answer your question. In this blog, we will explore several manual methods that will help users convert their MBOX files to EML. Also, we will talk about an automated MBOX Converter tool for an efficient and smooth conversion experience.

Understanding MBOX and EML Formats

MBOX (Mailbox) is an email storage file format that stores multiple email messages in a single file. It is used for email backup and archiving. 

EML stands for Electronic Mail or Email Message. An EML File is a file format that saves a single email message and contains the complete email content. 

Learn: How to Import MBOX Files To Thunderbird?

Reasons to Convert MBOX into EML 

Converting MBOX to EML is often needed for better data management and email accessibility. While both formats are great for storing emails, the EML format offers flexibility and manageability. Below are some of the key reasons why users make this switch:

• MBOX files store email messages in one file, whereas EML keeps each email separate for easier access and manageability.
• EML files are supported by more email clients, while MBOX is compatible with just a few email clients.
• EML files can be opened directly in many clients. But to open MBOX emails, they need to be imported into an email client.
• Backing up an MBOX file can be more challenging than backing up an EML file.

Top 3 Methods to Convert MBOX Files to EML Format

This section will show you how to convert MBOX files into an EML format using multiple methods. Here, we will cover two manual techniques to do it and also introduce a professional, reliable converter tool that makes things easier. Follow along as we go through each method in detail.

Manually Convert MBOX File to EML Using Thunderbird

This method involves importing MBOX files into an email client, Thunderbird, and then exporting the emails as EML files. It is a free and simple method.

The following are the steps to begin the conversion process:

1. Open the Thunderbird application on your system.
2. Now, log in with your Thunderbird email account credentials.
3. Then, go to Menu > Add-ons and Themes > Search ImportExportTools NG and install it.
4. To import the MBOX file, right-click on the Local Folders > ImportExportTools NG > Import an MBOX file and select your file.
5. Now, right-click on the selected folder and choose ImportExportTools NG > Export all messages in the folder.
6. Select the EML format and save the file in your preferred destination folder.

Limitations: This method is not suitable for converting large volumes of MBOX files. Also, it is a time-consuming process and therefore is prone to human error. 

Manually Convert MBOX into EML Using Apple Mail

It is a simple and built-in solution for macOS users. It saves individual EML files using the “Save As” option. 

Steps to perform this MBOX to EML conversion:

1. Open the Mail application on your macOS.
2. Then, navigate to File > Import Mailboxes.
3. Find and select your desired MBOX file and click on Continue to import it.
4. Now, open this imported MBOX file in the Apple Mail application.
5. Select the message that you want to convert.
6. Then, go to File > Save As.
7. Choose a destination location to save your file. Also, ensure that you select “Raw Message Source” or “Plain Text”.
8. Lastly, click on the Save button.

Limitations: This approach takes time as it does not have a bulk export functionality. It also does not preserve the original formatting and attachments. This method is only to be used by macOS users.

Reliable Utility to Convert MBOX Files to EML Format

The MBOX Converter Tool is a reliable solution to convert MBOX to EML and other file formats. Users can also export their MBOX files to email platforms like Thunderbird, Outlook, Office 365, etc. Additionally, this tool allows bulk conversions, removes duplicate emails, and provides a date-based filtering feature. With a built-in preview functionality, users can preview the messages before exporting them and can choose whether to include or exclude the attachments.

Quick and simple steps to convert MBOX into EML file format:

1. Download, install, and open the converter tool on your system.
2. Click on Continue > and select the Add File option.
3. Browse the desired MBOX file and open it to upload it.
4. Expand the tree hierarchical structure, preview the email content, and click Next to continue.
5. Under the Saves/Backup/Migrate As, choose File Formats and select EML as the saving option.
6. Apply the additional features if needed.
7. Choose the destination folder to save the resultant EML file.
8. At last, click on Convert to start the process.

Conclusion

Converting an MBOX file to EML is crucial for better email organization and compatibility. Through this blog, we have learned both the manual and the automated approach. The manual approach involves technical manual steps and takes time, and a smart professional MBOX Converter Tool simplifies the process to convert MBOX files to EML format. With this reliable tool, the user can convert MBOX files quickly, accurately, and error-free. It is useful for both individuals and enterprises. 

Also Read : Convert MBOX Files to TXT File.

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About The Author

Rohit Singh

Rohit Singh is an Email Backup, Recovery, and Migration Expert with over 6 years of experience in the software industry. He specializes in data migration solutions for Microsoft Outlook, Office 365, Google Workspace, and other popular email clients. Rohit regularly shares practical insights and technical guides to help users simplify complex email management tasks.