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How to Convert eM Client EMDF files?

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Written By
Nick Rogers
Published On
December 15th, 2025
Reading Time
7 Minutes Reading

Learn the best way to convert eM Client EMDF files. This guide covers a reliable solution, verified by 4n6 data conversion experts, to batch convert EMDF files into widely supported formats used across email clients, document platforms and various email services securely, without corruption or data loss.

eM Client has recently released its proprietary file format known as EMDF files for archiving old emails, moving eM Client data to new computers, or creating a secure backup.

Because EMDF is still a new format, many users aren’t sure how to export or convert it and end up stuck on what to do next.

In this informative guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to export & convert eM Client EMDF files to popular file types like PST, PDF, MBOX etc.

From understanding the EMDF file format and why they are helpful, to providing the step-by-step instructions for the best way to convert eM Client EMDF files.

What is an EMDF file and Why use it?

An EMDF is a data file used by the eM Client application for external or archived databases. The .emdf extension stands for eM Client Data File (“EMDF”).

It’s a proprietary file format created by eM Client as a container for email & other data (folders, attachments) in a single unified file that you can mount/unmount in the eM Client application.

You can easily mount and unmount these EMDF data files in your eM Client application. This means you can load them into the app to access them and unmount them whenever you want.

Despite their usefulness for archiving, backup & migration of eM Client data, these files are not designed to be opened or moved across popular email clients quickly. This is why there is a need to convert eM Client EMDF files for portability and easy access on multiple devices.

How to Create Data files in eM Client?

Here’s a complete guide on how to create data files in the eM Client application. In eM Client, what many users refer to as data files are actually local folders or archive folders, because it stores your emails in a database rather than a PST file like Outlook does. Below are the step-by-step procedures for creating and organizing local storage data in eM Client.

Enable Local Folders

Local folders allow you to store email messages on your computer rather than on the mail server.

  • Open your eM Client app, go to Menu, and choose Settings.
    go to settings
  • In General Settings, please select the Folders option.
    choose folders
  • Check the Local Folders option and click Save and Close.
    check local folders and click save and close

Now, you will see a local folders section on the left panel. This is where your data files are stored.

Create New Local Folders

Once local folders are enabled:

  • Right-click on the Local Folders Option
    local folders
  • Select the New Folders option
    choose new folder
  • Give it a name as per your choice, such as XYZ and click Ok.
    give it a name
  • Check the newly created local folder
    check folder

This new folder will act as a data file where you can store your emails.

Create an Archive (Automatic Data Files)

The eM Client application includes an Auto-Archive feature, which moves old emails into a local archive folder.

  • Go to the Menu and choose Settings option
    choose settings
  • Select Mail on the left panel
    choose mail
  • Find and select the option Automatic Archiving
    choose automatic archiving
  • Now, enable the option Automatic Archiving
    enable option
  • Check the option Archive messages older than… and click on Perform Archiving
    choose older than

Where eM Client Stores its data internally?

If you meant the software’s actual data files, they are stored in the following location:

On Windows: C:\Users\<username>\AppData\Roaming\eM Client\

How to Export eM Client Emails as EMDF?

Here is how you can export emails from eM Client as EMDF file format:

  • Open the eM Client application.
    open em client
  • From the menu, choose the File option.
    choose file
  • From the given drop-down list, choose the Export option.
    choose export
  • In the export dialog box, choose option “export emails to .emdf file.”
    choose export emails to emdf
  • Choose the folder you need to export such as Sent, Inbox, etc.
    check selected folders
  • If you don’t want to check specific folders, please choose the option Select All to export everything.
    check all and click next
  • Choose the destination path where you need to save your EMDF file.
    browse location
  • Click the finish button and wait for export to complete.
    click finish
  • You can see the Live Exporting Process on the screen.
    exporting process

Once complete, you will have an EMDF file. This is a native eM Client data file containing your exported emails.

How to Export eM Client EMDF files to Popular File Formats?

If you want to export EMDF files to another platform, you can use the 4n6 eM Client Converter. This is the only app available that supports this feature. It offers many useful features to help you convert multiple EMDF files into popular formats. Below is an overview of the file formats supported by 4n6 software.

Export EMDF files to Popular Savings Including:

  • Email Files: EML, MBOX, and PST
  • Document Files: PDF, HTML, TEXT, CSV, vCard, and ICS
  • Email Services: Gmail, Office 365, and IMAP
  • Email Clients: Thunderbird

Step-by-Step Process

  • Step 1: Firstly, free download the application on your Windows computer to test the working and features.

Download Now Purchase Now

  • Step 2: Once downloaded, install the application properly, run it, and click the Open button to begin the process.
    click open
  • Step 3: From the given drop-down option, click the Choose File option to browse your .emdf files.
    click on choose file
  • Step 4: The application quickly loads all the selected EMDF files on the left panel. You can preview your files before the conversion.
    preview emdf files
  • Step 5: Now, click the Export button and choose the required saving option as mentioned above.
    click export and choose saving
  • Step 6: Check the files you need to convert and destination path where you need to save output.
    check files and choose location
  • Step 7: Check the required filters and click the Save button to begin the export process.
    click save

The application will begin exporting EMDF files to a selected saving format. This process will only take a few moments. Once done, you will get a completion message.

Key Benefits of Using 4n6 eM Client EMDF Converter

  • Bulk Conversion:  Convert multiple EMDF files to popular formats in bulk.
  • Selective Conversion: Convert only selective eM Client EMDF files as you need.
  • Preview EMDF Files: With this app, you can view EMDF files before converting to another saving format.
  • Maintains Properties: When you convert eM Client EMDF files to another file format, the application maintains all properties.
  • No File Size Limit: There are no file size limitations to convert eM Client EMDF files.
  • Windows Compatible: You can download and run this software on Windows 11, Windows 10, and below versions.
  • Convert Attachments: With this app, you can easily convert eM Client files along with attachments.
  • Export Headers: The application  supports exporting eM Client EMDF files along with their header information.
Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is copying the EMDF files the same as creating a backup?

Not exactly. Copying EMDF files while eM Client is running may cause corruption. For a reliable backup, always use the Menu, File, and Backup. It safely packages the entire database, including the EMDF file.

Q: Can I open the EMDF file outside the eM Client application?

No, EMDF files are not meant to be opened by external programs. You can take help of 4n6 eM Client Converter to view EMDF files.

Q: Why can’t I find my EMDF files?

They have been stored in the hidden directory. Make sure you have “Show hidden files” enabled on Windows.

Q: What should I do if my EMDF files are corrupted?

eM Client offers automatic database repair at launch. If corruption persists:

  • Restore from backup.
  • Consider rebuilding the database by removing the corrupted directory and replaying the account.
Final Words

In this guide, we have covered how to convert eM Client EMDF files. We have explained everything you need to know, from understanding EMDF format to providing the reliable methods to exporting them. You can confidently use the recommended software to export eM Client EMDF files.