How to Import MBOX Files to Thunderbird Account?
Looking for a free solution to import MBOX files to Outlook and Mozilla Thunderbird applications? In this blog, we will discuss some recommended methods to import MBOX files to Thunderbird.
MBOX file format is supported by more than 20 email client applications including Mozilla Thunderbird, Apple Mail, Eudora, Spicebird, etc.
Before moving to the process of conversion, you need to figure out first the location of MBOX files on your system.
Why Import MBOX Files into Thunderbird?
- Free and Open-Source Platform: Thunderbird is a free, open-source email client developed by Mozilla, making it accessible to anyone and easily adaptable to meet specific needs.
- User-Friendly Interface: Thunderbird is designed with ease of use in mind, offering a clean, intuitive interface that makes it easy to navigate, organize, and search emails.
- Customizability: With a range of add-ons and themes, Thunderbird can be customized to suit individual workflows, including advanced sorting and filtering options that enhance email management.
- Enhanced Security: Thunderbird includes built-in security features, such as phishing protection and automatic spam filtering, offering greater control over data privacy.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: It works on Windows, macOS, and Linux, ensuring users can access their emails across different operating systems without compatibility issues.
How to Import MBOX Files in Thunderbird?
Import MBOX Files in Thunderbird On Windows OS
You need to install an add-on to proceed to the import and export option. Follow the below-provided steps to import the MBOX file to Thunderbird.
- Launch the Mozilla Thunderbird application on your system.
- Go to the Tools section.
- Choose the ImportExport tools option.
- Select Import MBOX file

- In the next window, select import directly one or more MBOX files. Hit the OK button.

- Browse for the MBOX file you want to import.

- Once the importing is done, you can see all the mailbox items as shown below.

Import MBOX Files in Thunderbird On MAC OS
If you are a MAC user then the process of importing would be slightly different than the steps discussed above. Follow the steps to import MBOX files to Thunderbird on Mac:
- Open Thunderbird for Mac.
- Go to the tools tab and then choose the Import option.

- Select the Mail option in the pop-up window and click on the Next button.

- Click on the Apple Mail in the dialog box. Click Next.

- After the importing process is completed, you can see a folder named Apple Mail in the Thunderbird profile and all the mailbox items on the left side.
Above are the steps users can follow to import MBOX files in Thunderbird Windows as well as Mac OS. Now we will move further and see the process of how users can effortlessly import MBOX to Outlook email clients.
Import MBOX to Thunderbird Account Using Software
MS Outlook is an advanced email service provider that offers several amazing features for its users to send and receive email messages. Outlook stores all its mailbox data in PST (Personal Storage Table) file format. There are manual methods available to convert MBOX to PST file format, however, there are limitations and risks of severe data loss due to human errors in the manual approach. So it is always suggested to use the well-known and reliable automated solution to import MBOX to PST. Data Recovery Solutions smart best MBOX File Converter can easily export MBOX files in bulk to multiple file formats in a single go. The utility offers a smooth user-friendly GUI and doesn’t require any technical knowledge to perform the conversion. It offers some amazing features for its users which are listed below.
Salient Features of the MBOX File Converter Tool
- Smoothly exports MBOX data into various other file formats such as PST, MSG, EML, PDF, HTML, and many more.
- Supports the MBOX files created by Thunderbird, Apple Mail, Eudora, and other 20+ email clients.
- Smooth user-friendly GUI.
- No file size limitations.
- No Outlook application is required to convert MBOX to PST.
- Maintains data integrity and data security.
- Supports all the latest versions of Windows and Mac.
- Provides the auto-detecting option.
- The free version is also available for free evaluation and allows users to convert 25 emails for free.
Also Read: Import Outlook PST to Thunderbird
Wrapping Up
In this blog, we have discussed the methods to import MBOX files to MS Outlook and Mozilla Thunderbird email service providers. We have provided steps to open MBOX in Thunderbird for both Windows and Mac OS. As we have discussed above to import MBOX to Outlook, there are manual methods available but also there are limitations and risks. So, it is suggested to use the professional automated solution for a safe and hassle-free conversion.
About The Author:
Pradeep is an expert with over 2 years of experience in email migration, email recovery, and file conversion. He has a passion for helping users by sharing easy-to-understand solutions for common technical challenges across different platforms. Known for breaking down complex tech topics into simple, enjoyable content, Pradeep's work has earned recognition in several well-known tech blogs. His straightforward approach and reliable guidance have made him a trusted source for both tech enthusiasts and beginners looking to resolve their technical issues.