How to Convert MSG Files to PST on Windows & Mac

Both MSG and PST are file types for Microsoft Outlook, but they have different functions. MSG files contain a single email message, whereas PST (Personal Storage Table) files contain a full mailbox consisting of emails, contacts, calendars, etc. It is required to convert MSG to PST when one has to merge multiple messages or move data in an optimal way between systems. Different ways to convert MSG files to PST format on both Windows and macOS are discussed in this article.

Understanding MSG and PST File Formats

Before diving into the conversion process, it's essential to understand what these formats represent:

• MSG: A file format that stores a single email message, along with its metadata. It is generated when a message is dragged out of Outlook into the file system.

• PST: A full Outlook data file that is used to save entire mailboxes, including folders, attachments, contacts, tasks, and calendars. PST files play an important role in data migration and backup.

Since MSG files can only be saved as single items, exporting them as PST files allows Outlook data to be better centralized and managed.

Method 1: Manual Conversion on Windows (Using Outlook)

If you're working with Microsoft Outlook on Windows, you can manually import MSG files into a PST by doing the following:

1. Open Microsoft Outlook.

2. Create a new folder in Outlook to hold the imported MSG files.

3. Drag and drop your MSG files from Windows Explorer into the new folder.

4. After all MSG files are imported, go to File > Open & Export > Import/Export.

5. Select Export to a file and click Next.

6. Select Outlook Data File (.pst) and go ahead.

7. Select the folder to which you copied the MSG files and finish exporting.

It exports all the MSG items chosen to a PST file. It is an easy approach, but you need Outlook to be properly installed and configured on your computer.

Method 2: Utilizing a Third-Party Utility (Windows)

In the case of multiple MSG files or in need of automation, third-party software is a better solution. There are some good utilities available that bulk convert MSG to PST without losing metadata and folder structure.

Most important features to consider:

• Batch conversion of MSG files

• Support for attachments and rich-text format

• Support for multiple versions of Outlook

• Feature to split large PST files

Some of the examples include vMail MSG to PST Converter, and Vartika MSG Converter. These programs usually have a free demo to try before buying.

Method 3: Conversion on Mac (Indirect Method)

As Outlook for Mac does not natively support MSG files, users have to go through an indirect route. Here's what to do:

1. Move the MSG files to a Windows machine and convert them to PST using one of the methods described above.

2. Transfer the PST file to your Mac through an external hard drive or cloud storage.

3. Open Outlook for Mac and click File > Import.

4. Select Outlook for Windows archive file (.pst) and complete the import process through the prompts.

This method adds a few extra steps, but it's now the most trusted method for accessing MSG data on macOS.

Smooth Conversion Tips

• Always make backups of your data before commencing the conversion.

• Make sure Outlook is set up correctly if you are using the manual process.

• Select a third-party tool certified by the vendor to prevent data corruption or malware attacks.

• Verify Outlook version compatibility prior to importing PST files into another system.

Conclusion

Converting MSG files to PST is an efficient step towards organizing and migrating Outlook data. Whether you are employing the manual drag-and-drop technique on Windows, using a third-party application for bulk conversion, or migrating data to a Mac, there's a solution that suits your requirement. Familiarity with the structure and use of each file format simplifies the process and makes it more ef