Quick Guide to Import Apple Mail to Outlook

Overview: Apple Mail and Microsoft Outlook are two of the most popular email clients. Apple Mail is widely used by Mac users for its flawless integration with macOS. In contrast, Outlook is known for its powerful features and cross-platform compatibility in business environments. Many people switch from Apple Mail to Outlook, but the email formats don’t match. So, they need to import Apple Mail to Outlook carefully. To transfer Mac Mail emails(in MBOX Format) to Outlook(In PST Format), experts recommend to use the DRS Softech MBOX to PST Converter Tool.

This guide explains why users often migrate from Apple Mail to Outlook. Also, we will provide step-by-step instructions to make the process simple and effective. You’ll find everything you need here, either you want to move a few folders or need to transfer the entire mailbox.   

Major Reasons to Import Mac Mail to Outlook

Apple Mail stores emails in the MBOX format, while Outlook uses PST or OST files depending on the account type. This difference makes it difficult when users try to transfer their data between these clients. 

  • When users move from a Mac to a Windows PC, they need to transfer their emails to Outlook, which is more common on Windows.
  • Many workplaces use Microsoft Outlook for email, calendar, and tasks, so users switch to Outlook to stay connected with their work environment.
  • Outlook offers advanced features like better organization and integration with Microsoft Office apps, which some users prefer.
  • Moreover, Outlook works well with Microsoft Exchange and Office 365 accounts. Hence, it is easy to manage emails, contacts, and calendars in one place.
  • Users who manage multiple email accounts or platforms often prefer Outlook because it supports many email types in one application.

Before we start, it helps to understand why people switch from Mac Mail to Outlook. Now, let’s learn how to import your Apple Mail emails into Outlook quickly and safely.

How to Import Apple Mail to Outlook

Below, you’ll find clear and simple steps to help you import your Apple Mail emails into Outlook smoothly, using either manual methods or specialized software.

  • Manual Method: Export Apple Mail emails in MBOX format, then convert and import to Outlook.
  • Automated Method: Use specialized software to directly convert and import Apple Mail data to Outlook.

Method 01: Manual Method to Transfer Mac Mail Emails to Outlook

In this method, all you need to export your emails from Apple Mail first and then import them into Outlook using built-in features and free applications. Let’s go through the process of importing to Outlook from Mac mail. 

Step 1: Export Emails from Apple Mail as MBOX Files

  • Open Apple Mail on your Mac.
  • Select the mailbox or folder you want to export from the left panel.
  • Click Mailbox in the top menu bar.
  • Choose Export Mailbox… from the dropdown menu.
  • Select a destination folder on your Mac where you want to save the exported mailbox.
  • Click Choose to export. This will save the mailbox as an .mbox file.

Note: Repeat this step for each mailbox or folder you want to export.

Step 2: Transfer the MBOX File to Your Windows PC

  • Copy the exported .mbox files to an external drive or upload them to cloud storage.
  • Transfer the files to your Windows PC where you have Microsoft Outlook installed.

Step 3: Import MBOX Emails to Mozilla Thunderbird

Since Outlook cannot import MBOX files directly, you’ll use Thunderbird as an intermediate step.

  • Download and install Mozilla Thunderbird on your Windows PC.
  • Open Thunderbird and install the ImportExportTools NG add-on.
  • Go to Tools >> Add-ons. Search for ImportExportTools NG and install it.
  • Restart Thunderbird.
  • Right-click on Local Folders in Thunderbird.
  • Choose ImportExportTools NG >> Import MBOX file.
  • Select Import directly one or more MBOX files and click OK.
  • Browse to the folder where you saved the MBOX files and select them.
  • Your Apple Mail emails will now appear in Thunderbird.

Step 4: Export Emails from Thunderbird as EML Files

  • Open the folder in Thunderbird where the imported emails are stored.
  • Select the emails you want to export.
  • Right-click and choose Save selected messages >> EML format.
  • Choose a folder to save the .eml files.

Step 5: Import EML Files into Microsoft Outlook

  • Open Microsoft Outlook.
  • Create a new folder in Outlook to keep your imported emails organized.
  • Open the folder where you saved the .eml files.
  • Drag and drop EML files into Outlook or use Outlook’s Import feature.
  • Now, Go to File >>Open & Export >> Import/Export.
  • Select Import from another program or file, then click Next.
  • Choose Outlook Data File (.pst) and locate your PST file.
  • Select the destination folder in Outlook and complete the import.

Important Notes:

  • The manual method is free but takes time and requires careful handling.
  • Make sure you back up your emails before starting the process.
  • This method is best for small to medium mailboxes. Large mailboxes may be slow to transfer.
  • Also, this method requires some technical knowledge of email clients.

Method 02: Automated Method to Import Apple Mail to Outlook

When it comes to export Apple Mail to Outlook, the biggest hurdle is the difference in file formats. Manually converting files can be time-consuming and confusing. That’s where the DRS Softech MBOX to PST Converter Tool steps in. It is a powerful and easy-to-use solution to handle this job smoothly. As a result, it can save you hours of hassle and keeps your data safe and intact.

Simplified Steps to Import Mac Mail to Outlook

  • Download and install the DRS Softech MBOX to PST Converter on your PC.
  • After that, click on “Select File” or “Select Folder” to add your MBOX files.
  • Now, it provides a preview of the emails and attachments before conversion.
  • Select “PST” as the desired output format and specify the destination path.
  • You can use available filters like date range or duplicate removal as needed.
  • Click on the “Convert” button to import Apple Mail to Outlook(as PST format).

Note: Once converted, open Outlook and import the PST file using the “Import/Export” feature.

Key Features of this Software

  • Supports Various MBOX-Based Email Clients: Compatible with Apple Mail, Thunderbird, Eudora, Entourage, and more.
  • Multiple Output Formats: Converts MBOX files into PST, EML, MSG, PDF, HTML, DOC, DOCX, TXT, and others.
  • Batch Conversion: Allows conversion of multiple MBOX files simultaneously.
  • Maintains Data Integrity: Preserves email properties like To, From, Subject, Date, and attachments during conversion.
  • User-Friendly Interface: It is designed ease of use for both technical and non-technical users.
  • Advanced Filters: Offers options like date range filtering and duplicate email removal for precise conversion.

Conclusion

This complete guide helped you to reach out the simplified solutions to import Apple Mail to Outlook. User are free to pick any of the mentioned method, according to their requirement and technical expertise.  So, you can easily manage your email transition and enjoy the powerful features of Microsoft Outlook.

About The Author:

Shital Jha is a skilled technical content writer with a strong academic foundation, holding a master's degree. For 2+ years, she has been specializing in the field of email migration and file conversion. Her content is known for explaining technical steps in a simple, step-by-step instructions so that users can easily manage their data and move between email platforms. Her deep understanding of the technical landscape, paired with a passion for simplifying information, makes her a trusted voice in the world of email migration solutions.

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