How to Convert OLM to MBOX with No Data Loss
OLM files are Outlook for Mac specific files and cannot be used on other applications or platforms. If you want to change the compatibility of .olm across platforms, changing their extension to .mbox is the easiest and most straightforward solution. In this article, we aim to mention all the ways to convert OLM to MBOX, stay with us to make your data universally readable.
OLM files are highly beneficial and provide efficient performance in terms of email indexing and searching when used for Outlook for Mac. These files have optimization features that are suitable for the macOS environment. However, despite these benefits, the restrictions of using them only on Mac via the Outlook application force users to convert them into cross-platform support files.
MBOX, on the other hand, has as many advantages as OLM files and even more. They can be used on Windows, macOS, Linux via multiple email applications without any hassle. MBOX, these days, has become the most common file format for email backup and long-term data archiving needs.
Why Convert OLM to MBOX?
Converting OLM to MBOX is reasonable for greater flexibility, compatibility, and accessibility of your email data.
- Cross platform Support: OLM files cannot be used directly by any other email client. However, MBOX is a universal file format and can be used by a wide range of email applications such as Thunderbird, Opera Mail, and Apple Mail.
- Accessibility: MBOX files are easier to open and view than Mac OLM files. They can be opened with multiple email clients and even text editors and several free MBOX viewers available online.
- Avoid Outlook Dependency: Exporting OLM data file to MBOX format eliminates the dependency on Outlook for Mac account. You can gain flexibility to work on your email with other email applications for customization needs.
How to Convert Outlook for Mac to MBOX?
You can convert OLM to MBOX free using the manual method. However, this may not be suitable for all users. It involves using the Outlook for Mac app and a webmail account. You can check the complete steps below to understand the manual process.
Method 1: Manual Method to Convert OLM File to MBOX
- First, set up your Outlook for Mac account and import the OLM files
- Add an email account such as Gmail in the app.
- Move the email from the OLM mailbox to the Gmail mailbox added in Outlook.
- Now, the OLM email will be automatically synced with the Gmail account.
- Then, you can use Google Takeout to export the synced emails in MBOX format.
This process is very tricky and not suitable for most users as it depends on Outlook and is time-consuming. If you also find this method not suitable for you, then move on to our next approach.
Method 2: Professional Method to Convert Mac OLM File to MBOX
OLM Converter is the best software for users who are looking for an efficient and quick solution to convert Outlook for Mac files to MBOX. This software does not involve Outlook application to save OLM to MBOX. It is independent and can convert a large number of OLM email files to .mbox in seconds.
It has a free level package which is suitable for trial and testing purposes. You can download it from the above link and also check the working steps below to understand how to use it.
Steps to Batch Convert OLM Files into MBOX Format
- Download, install and launch the Mac OLM to MBOX converter software.
- Then click Open and then select “Choose Files from a Folder“.
- Browse and import the OLM files into the software panel.
- Then, click Export > MBOX.
- Click Browse and choose the destination to save the files. Finally click Save button.
That’s it! That’s the only guide to convert OLM to MBOX using the best software online. It is flexible and easier than using the manual method.
Why You Should Choose OLM to MBOX Converter over Manual Method
- Convert multiple OLM files to MBOX at the same time.
- Does not require you to configure with Outlook for Mac mail client.
- Convert OLM to MBOX without Thunderbird or other compatible apps.
- Convert OLM to MBOX with attachments, headers, and complete email metadata.
- Supports to export selected emails from large OLM files to MBOX format.
- Allows you to view OLM files before converting into MBOX format.
- Offers quick and advanced search options to find specific content within OLM files.
- Offers read-only panel and does not make any changes to your source data
- Also supports to convert OLM files to PST and other formats.
In Conclusion
OLM files are very useful, but if you want them to be more flexible and accessible, converting to MBOX is a great solution. In the above content, we have mentioned a great solution to convert OLM to MBOX. You can choose to use the manual method, which is very tricky and requires setting up an Outlook account for Mac.
Alternatively, we have come up with the best automated software that allows you to batch convert OLM files to MBOX for free without creating an account. You may download it for free and try and test before making any purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question) What is an OLM file?
An OLM is a data file created by Mac Outlook account to store email messages and associated metadata. It is specially designed for macOS Outlook and cannot be used directly on Outlook for Windows. An OLM can store emails, contacts, calendar, tasks, notes, etc.
Question) What is an MBOX file?
An MBOX is an email data file for storing a wide range of user data. An MBOX is a widely used format and is compatible with all operating systems such as Windows, macOS, Linux, etc. Unlike OLM, mbox is compatible with a wide range of email applications such as Thunderbird, Apple Mail, Opera Mail, etc.
Question) Should I convert OLM to MBOX files?
If you want high accessibility to your data, converting OLM files to MBOX is a good option. It makes your data flexible to open and avoids the dependency on Outlook.
Question) Are there any limitations in converting Outlook for Mac to MBOX?
Yes, Outlook for Mac file can store media metadata like categories and flags which may not be completely converted to MBOX. MBOX is a simpler format and may not support features like calendar entries, contact group like Outlook for Mac does.
Question) Why are some email data missing after converting Outlook Mac file to MBOX?
The reason may be that MBOX file does not support rich metadata like Mac Outlook file.
Question) How to convert Outlook OLM file to MBOX for free?
The only free solution is to add a Gmail account in macOS Outlook and sync OLM with it. Then use Takeout to save the emails in MBOX format.
Question) How to convert multiple .olm files to .mbox without client dependency?
Use the professional OLM to MBOX converter for easier, faster and bulk conversion of your files.
