How to Convert MBOX to DOC – Free & Paid Ways
Email management is crucial especially when dealing with a large number of emails. MBOX file format is a popular file format for storing emails, but over time it becomes not suitable for everyone. Then, you may just want to convert MBOX to a more user-friendly, shareable and readable format like DOC. In this article we will help you choose among the best ways to convert MBOX to DOC. So, follow along with us.
MBOX is a popular format for storing emails due to its simplicity, portability, wide compatibility, and efficient storage. However, apart from the great advantages of MBOX, there are also some downsides of lack of granularity, limited search and retrieval, platform dependence, and difficulty of sharing. This is the common problem that makes everyone switch from MBOX file to Word Doc file.
How to Convert MBOX to DOC (Quick Answer)
There are 2 ways to convert MBOX to DOC: If you already use Thunderbird, you may install the ImportExportTools NG add-on, export your emails as plain text, and then paste them into Word. It costs nothing, but you will spend time cleaning up the formatting afterward. If you want to skip that cleanup, an MBOX to DOC converter will do it in a few clicks and keep your headers, and attachments intact. Which one makes sense really just comes down to how many emails you are dealing with.
Reasons to Convert MBOX File to DOC File
- Converting from MBOX to DOC format allows you to present email in a more readable and accessible format with appropriate formatting, headings, text style, and embedded graphics.
- Doc files are suitable for long-term preservation. Users who want to preserve email content for stability and accessibility over time may prefer the DOC file format.
- If you need to make changes or annotate MBOX email content, converting it to DOC is the best option. A Doc file allows you to edit and change content using any Word processing software.
- Exporting MBOX folder to DOC is useful for backup. If you accidentally delete or destroy MBOX, you can recover the same content using the DOC backup.
- Converting multiple MBOX files to Word Doc allows you to access them through any operating system or device. DOC file can be opened through computer, smartphones and Windows, iOS, Linux, Android, etc.
Two Ways to Convert MBOX to Word DOC
Converting from MBOX file to DOC is easier and only involves a few steps. There are basically two common ways to get the job done:
- Manual method
- Professional method
The manual procedure usually involves using an email client that supports an MBOX file. One prime example of such an email client is Thunderbird. If you are configured with it, or have no problem setting up this account to complete the task, please follow the step-by-step procedure below.
Manual Approach to Convert MBOX to DOC
- Setup Thunderbird (If you’re already not)
- Next, Go to Tools >> Add-ons and then install “ImportExportTools NG” add-on.
- Thereafter, restart the email application.
- Now, click the Tools, select ImportExportTool NG and then Import MBOX File.
- Select “Import directly one or more MBOX files” and then navigate and select MBOX file.
- Once the MBOX files are imported, right-click on the emails or folder.
- Click ImportExportTools NG and then select “Export all messages in the folder”
- Choose Plain Text format or Plain Text format (with attachments).
- Choose location to save the files and then finish the process.
After all, you can open exported text files in Notepad and then copy and paste the content into a Word document.
This is how to manually export MBOX file to DOC. This method is completely free and suitable for a large number of professionals. However, this method has a dark flip side of challenges and limitations. We’ve highlighted some drawbacks, which you can explore below.
Limitations of the Manual Approach
- First, the manual procedure does not provide a direct option to convert MBOX to Doc file. You need to export them in TXT and then copy and paste the content using Txt editor.
- Copying and pasting content can cause formatting disruption and may not provide you with accurate data integrity.
- This manual procedure is a bit technical since you need to install some add-ons.
If you have already set up and are using Thunderbird, we suggest you use the manual solution. However, if you feel that this method is a bit difficult and unreliable when it comes to precise formatting, we have an alternative for you. Please read it below.
Pro Method to Convert MBOX to Word DOC File
File Converter Software is the fast and safe way to convert multiple MBOX files to DOC directly. This software is fully automated and processes your files easily with little intervention from you. It can automatically detect MBOX files on your computer’s internal and external hard drive to convert them to DOC. This is the straightforward solution and does not require you to save the MBOX file in another format like the manual solution does.
This MBOX to DOC converter also comes in a free version that you can download from the green button above. After downloading, refer to the steps mentioned below to export MBOX to DOC.
Steps for Batch Converting MBOX File in DOC
- After downloading the MBOX to DOC converter from the link above, click the Open.
- Go to Email Data Files >> MBOX Files >> Choose Files or Choose Folders.
- Now, browse, select and add the MBOX file or folder to the software interface.
- Go to the Export menu and select Doc from the drop-down menu.
- Click the browse button and choose the location to save the resulting files. Finally, click the Save.
Once the Word file is ready, you can open the Word file with a free Word viewer without installing the original application.
Your MBOX files will be converted to DOC within a few moments. Once the MBOX conversion is completed you will be alerted. This utility is easy and makes the conversion process easier. If you would like to learn more about this tool, continue reading below.
Additional Perks of the MBOX to DOC Converter
- Direct Saving: Although the manual solution does not provide the direct option to save MBOX to a Word document file, this software does. This tool offers you the option to save DOC.
- Easy to use: This software is easier to use, thanks to its design. It has a simple interface that is accessible to both technical and non-technical people as well.
- Time-saving: This software is time-saving and allows you to convert MBOX files to DOC in bulk. It has the ability to convert multiple MBOX files or folders to MS DOC file at the same time.
- Preserve Metadata: It allows you to export MBOX to DOC with all text, header and attachments. All data will be converted simultaneously and with the same structure.
- Advanced Filters: With this MBOX to DOC converter, you will have full control over the email you want to convert. You can convert MBOX emails to DOC from headers like To, Cc, Bcc, subject, date and specified time frame.
Manual vs Software: Which Method Should You Use?
| Criteria | Thunderbird (Manual) | Converter Software |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | Paid/ Free version available |
| Setup | Requires Thunderbird + an add-on | One time installation |
| Best for | Few emails | Thousands of emails |
| Formatting | Needs manual cleanup after pasting into Word | Comes out formatted |
| Attachments | Have to be pulled out and added separately | Carried over automatically |
| Time | Can take a while depending on volume | A few minutes regardless of volume |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does converting MBOX to DOC keep the attachments?
Yes, but it depends totally on the conversion method you use. A manual method does not preserve the attachments, whereas a dedicated MBOX to DOC converter can.
Will I lose formatting when I convert manually?
Yes, you may lose formatting when converting manually, particularly with complex layout, images and tables. A dedicated third party software generally does the job better and keeps the original email formatting intact.
Can I convert MBOX to DOC on a Mac?
Yes, you can convert MBOX to DOC using the Thunderbird method. A suggested 4n6 software is not compatible with Mac systems.
Can I convert multiple MBOX files to DOC in one go?
Yes, you may use the 4n6 tool to convert multiple MBOX files to DOC in a single operation. A manual method generally fails in handling batch files.
Can I convert just a few emails instead of the whole mailbox?
Yes. Our tool lets you preview MBOX content and select specific emails for conversion. You can convert emails from specific sender, recipient and subject.
Conclusion
Exporting MBOX file to DOC is useful for opening, managing and editing email content easily. In the above content, we have guided you through the two ways to convert MBOX to DOC. You can set up the Thunderbird and install Add-ons, or you can use the dedicated MBOX to DOC converter. The manual method is useful for a handful of emails, while the software supports batch conversion and preserves formatting automatically.
