How to Convert PST to MBOX on a Mac: Step-by-Step Guide

Converting PST (Personal Storage Table) files to MBOX format on a Mac is a common task for users looking to move their email data to Apple Mail or other Mac-native email clients. This guide will walk you through three different methods, from using third-party software to a more advanced scripting approach, ensuring you find the best solution for your needs.

Method 1: Using Third-Party Software

For those preferring an easy and user-friendly approach, third-party software provides a straightforward solution for converting PST files to MBOX format.

Steps:

Download a PST to MBOX Converter: There are several reliable third-party applications available for this purpose, including Mail Passport Pro, PST Bridge, and SysTools PST Converter. Install the Software: Follow the installation instructions for the chosen software. Import the PST File: Open the application and locate the option to import or add a PST file. Select MBOX as the Output Format: Choose MBOX as the format you want to convert to. Start the Conversion: Initiate the conversion process. Once completed, the application will typically save the MBOX files to a specified location on your Mac.

Method 2: Using Apple Mail and Outlook

For those who prefer a manual approach, combining Outlook and Apple Mail allows you to export PST files and import them as MBOX format.

Steps:

Export Emails from Outlook: Open Outlook on your Mac. Select the emails you want to export. Go to File Export. Choose to export to an Outlook for Mac Archive file (OLM) . Save the file. Import OLM into Apple Mail: Open Apple Mail. Go to File Import Mailboxes. Choose Files in mbox format or Outlook for Mac archive file depending on the version of Apple Mail. Locate the OLM file you exported from Outlook and follow the prompts to import it. Convert to MBOX: If using the second option, your emails should now be in MBOX format and accessible in Apple Mail.

Method 3: Using a Script (Advanced)

For users comfortable with scripting, tools like libPST can extract emails from PST files and convert them to MBOX format. This method requires some technical knowledge and familiarity with the command line.

Steps:

Install libPST: You can install it via Homebrew with this command:

bashbrew install libpst

Convert PST to MBOX: Use the following command in the terminal:

bashreadpst -o output_directory

This will convert the PST file into MBOX format in the specified output directory.

Conclusion

Choose the method that best suits your needs based on your comfort level with software and technical tools. Third-party converters often provide the easiest and most user-friendly experience, while manual methods or scripting can be more tailored to specific requirements.

If you encounter any issues or need further assistance, consider reaching out to customer support for the software you are using or exploring online forums and communities dedicated to macOS and email management.