How to Convert MBOX to TXT with Attachments: Free & Pro Methods
Learn the step-by-step methods (Free & Professional) to convert MBOX emails to TEXT format from any source, like Google Takeout, Apple Mail, etc., in a lossless way, so you can access them easily in Notepad, share them across devices, or for legal e-Discovery needs & auditing.
TL;DR | Quick Summary
- You can manually convert MBOX files to Plain Text (.txt) manually – using Thunderbird with the ImportExport NG add-on.
- On Mac devices, Apple Mail provides an Import MBOX and Save As TXT feature for users who need to convert natively.
- Manual methods are best if you have only 1 or 2 MBOX files and a small number of emails to convert to TXT.
- Use the 4n6 Automated MBOX to Text Converter with attachments to quickly and easily convert MBOX files to TXT in bulk.
About MBOX and TXT (Plain Text) File Format
MBOX is a file format. It can store multiple emails in a single file in rich text format. These files are universally acceptable and compatible with a wide range of Windows and iOS-supported email applications, such as Thunderbird, Apple Mail (previous version), etc. An MBOX file can store all the data of a configured profile with your desktop application.
Text or TXT files are standard text documents containing plain text without any special formatting. These files are universally compatible as they can be accessed on any platform or device, such as a computer, laptop, tablet, or phone, etc. These files are usually smaller in size and, therefore, easier to share and manage.
MBOX files have various advantages and disadvantages. MBOX files are not easy to access. You either need to configure with a compatible MBOX client or the Free MBOX Viewer to access MBOX. However, if you do not want to use any of the options, converting MBOX to Text format is best.
Why Convert MBOX to TXT? Real-World User ScenariosĀ
MBOX to TXT conversion offers advantages for individual users and is often essential at the business and enterprise level.
- Text files are easily accessible using free & universal editors like Microsoft Notepad, Notepad++, EditPad Lite, Atom, Visual Studio Code, etc.
- They can be accessed on any device, such as a smartphone, computer, or tablet. They are designed for easy, anytime, anywhere access without an email client.
- They are smaller in size than MBOX and other document file formats. So, sharing them with others is easy.
- Legal & Forensic e-Discovery experts convert MBOX emails to .txt format, as they work well with other research applications.
- To separate and keep a local copy of, or share, a particular email from multiple emails stored in MBOX files.
Convert MBOX to TEXT Using Thunderbird with ImportExportTools NG
Mozilla Thunderbird is an open-source email client that can help you convert MBOX files to TXT format for free, simply using an extension called ImportExportTools NG. ImportExportTools NG can help users to bulk import MBOX files in Thunderbird and export them as Plain Text(.txt) format.
Here are the exact steps to follow to export MBOX emails in Plain text for free for easier access:
- Open the Thunderbird application.
- Click on Three Line Navigational menu >> Themes and Extensions.
- Install/ Add the ImportExportTools NG add-on.
- Restart your Thunderbird.
- Go to local folders, right-click, and choose ImportExportTools NG.
- Select Import MBOX files.
- Choose an individual MBOX file or directory depending on the number of MBOX files you need to convert to TXT.
- Select the MBOX files from your PC.
Once you have MBOX files in the local folder of Thunderbird, you can export them as TXT in 2 way:
Convert MBOX to TEXT in Thunderbird Using Save As
Best if you have limited emails and a selective MBOX to Plain Text Conversion.
- Open the desired MBOX email in Thunderbird.
- Right-click and Choose Save As.
- Choose the desired location, rename the file, and select Text File from the Save As Type.
- Click Save.
Bulk Convert MBOX to TXT in Thunderbird with an Add-On
ImportExport NG not only helps you import MBOX but also convert and export them as Plain Text in bulk for free.
- Go to Imported MBOX in the local folder.
- Right-click on the folder.
- Choose ImportExport NG >> Export All Messages in Folder >> Plain Text.
- Choose the destination, rename, and press Save.
Natively Convert MBOX files to TXT on Mac OS – Using Apple Mail
Apple Mail, an email client for Mac devices, lets you securely export MBOX to .txt format without any extension. Here are the steps to follow:
- Open Apple Mail on Mac.
- Click File on the top right and choose Import Mailboxes.
- Select Files in MBOX format >> Continue.
- Select the MBOX to be imported into Apple Mail >> Press Choose.
- Navigate to the desired MBOX email to convert to TXT.
- Go to File >> Save As.
- Select Plain Text as the saving type, name the .txt file, and press Save.
How to Bulk Convert MBOX to TXT with Attachments?
4n6 MBOX Converter Tool is a specialized software that lets you convert MBOX to TXT format in a couple of clicks. With the help of this app, one can easily convert unlimited MBOX files into TXT format without facing any hassle. It supports exporting MBOX files created by any MBOX-supportive app.
This MBOX to TXT converter can convert MBOX to Text along with all associated attachments. This app is safe to use and keeps your emails safe. There will be no change in message format or attributes associated with the MBOX files, even after the conversion. You can read the full working steps of the tool below.
How to Use the MBOX to TXT Converter? Working StepsĀ
- Download, install, and run the software to convert MBOX to Text format.
- Click the Open tab >> Email Data Files >> MBOX Files >> Choose folder/files.
- Once all the Text files are imported into the tool, preview them.
- Click the Export option and select the TEXT as a storage format.
- Then select a destination and click Save to begin the conversion process.
Convert MBOX to Plain Text: Which Method is Best for You?
| Feature | Thunderbird | Apple Mail | 4n6 MBOX to TXT Converter |
| Platform support | Windows & macOS | macOS only | All Windows devices |
| Bulk conversion | Yes, but unreliable | No | Yes (enterprise-level) |
| Attachment preservation | No | No | Yes (saved separately) |
| Folder structure | Not preserved | Not preserved | Fully preserved |
| Data integrity | Not guaranteed | Not guaranteed | 100% compliant (RFC 822 & MIME) |
| Cost | Free | Free | Paid |
Automated MBOX to TEXT Converter – Benefits & Features
- Support for MBOX: This software supports MBOX files from all the Webmail services and Windows and Apple-based clients. It can export MBOX to TXT from Google Takeout, ProtonMail, Apple Mail Etc.
- Advanced Search Function: MBOX to TXT Converter is an advanced application. It has a search feature that lets you convert MBOX Emails to plain text from a specific time, date, and header like To, CC, etc.
- Support Batch Conversion: This MBOX to Text file converter is a time-efficient application. It allows you to convert MBOX to TXT in bulk while preserving data integrity and avoiding data loss.
- Read Before Conversion: This tool lets you review your data in an MBOX file before converting it to plain Text. You may also read the emails in Hex and Raw mode for detailed investigation.
- Save All MBOX Attachments: This software converts MBOX files to Text with all the associated attachments, such as images, documents, email addresses, and phone numbers.
- Standalone:Ā This advanced software is completely standalone and self-sufficient. It does not require you to have or setup MBOX supportive email client to complete the task.
- 100% Reliable: This software is completely system-based and offline. It keeps your data safe and private and does not make any modifications to it during conversion.
In Conclusion
Currently, many people are looking for ways to convert MBOX to Text format. Therefore, in this article, we presented an intelligent and fast approach, that is, MBOX to TXT Converter, to export multiple MBOX files to text format without any errors and data loss. The software is an all-in-one that may also split MBOX files into individual messages. Thus, to enjoy all of the tool’s benefits, download it immediately.
FAQs: Convert MBOX to Text FileĀ
Question 1) How to manually convert MBOX to TXT format?
There is no way to manually convert MBOX files to TEXT format. You must use professional software to make this conversion possible.
Question 2) Thunderbird Add-on allows export of MBOX files in PDF and CSV format, does it allow export in text format as well?
No. The Thunderbird ImportExport NG add-on provides only a few storage options. Exporting MBOX in text format is not allowed.
Question 3) How many MBOX files can I convert at once?
The MBOX to TXT converter allows you to convert unlimited MBOX files in a single operation.
Question 4) Can I export multiple MBOX files into one TXT file?
Yes, with the suggested software, you can create a single plain Text file from multiple MBOX files.
Question 5) What happens to attachments when converting MBOX to plain Text?
All the attachments will be saved in a separate folder.
