How to Import OLM to Outlook.com Easily in 2025 – Step-by-Step Guide

Hey there! If you are reading this, you are likely changing from Outlook for Mac to Outlook.com, or you want to access your Mac email in the cloud. I’ve been there too; it's challenging to try to work on different email platforms. The biggest headache? That OLM file format that Outlook for Mac uses, which isn’t directly supported by Outlook.com.

But don’t worry. I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process that I used to import my OLM files to Outlook.com, with tips and tricks. This easy-to-use tutorial does not make your head spin. Ready? Let’s get into it.

What Is an OLM File and Why Import It to Outlook.com?

Before starting, what exactly is an OLM file? Think of it as the mailbox container that is used by Outlook on Mac to save all your emails, contacts, calendars, and more. It’s like your entire email world packaged in one file.

Outlook.com, which is a web-based version of Outlook, does not support OLM files. So, if you attempt to upload or import, you’re going to receive errors or a dead end. That's why we need to convert and import your OLM data so that you can continue to use your OLM emails smoothly on Outlook.com. Trust me, switching platforms without losing your precious emails feels like a big win.

Challenges to Import OLM Files in Outlook.com Directly

When I first tried to move my OLM file to Outlook.com, I thought I’d just upload it somewhere or drag and drop. Nope! Outlook.com will not accept OLM files because it does not know how to read them. I began trying to find solutions on forums and watching tutorials on YouTube. Most of the solutions either did not work or corrupted my data. It was frustrating, and I almost gave up!

That's when I found out the secret: convert your OLM file into the formats that Outlook.com understands - PST or MBOX - and then import.

Also Know: Back Up OLM File in Multiple Formats

Step 1 – Export Your OLM File from Outlook Mac

Before we do anything, you need to export your OLM file from Outlook on your Mac. Here’s how I did it:

1. Open Outlook on your Mac.
2. Click on File and then Export.
3. Select those you want to export, like emails, attachments, etc.
4. Select a desired location on your Mac to save the OLM file.
5. Click Save.

Easy, right? Make sure you save the file somewhere you’ll remember.

Step 2 – Convert the OLM File to a Supported Format

Now comes the trickier part, but don’t sweat it.

Outlook.com doesn’t accept OLM files, but it does work with PST files (the format used by Outlook for Windows). You can also use MBOX files if you plan to import using certain email clients.

I used a trusted Windows-based tool (there are plenty out there, but I tried Softaken OLM to PST Converter). This expert software smoothly converts your OLM file into a PST, MBOX or many other file formats.

Here’s the Quick Rundown of What I did:

• Transferred my Mac OLM file to a Windows PC. (You can use a USB drive or cloud storage like OneDrive.)
• Installed the OLM file converter software.
• Loaded my OLM file into the program.
• Choose PST as the output format.
• Clicked “Convert” and waited for the process to finish.
• Saved the new PST file on my PC.

Pro tip: Always back up your original OLM file before converting—just in case.

Step 3 - Synchronise the Outlook.com with Outlook Desktop

• Open the Outlook desktop application on your computer.
• Click File (from the top left corner).
• Select Add Account.
• Type your Outlook.com email address and click Connect.
• Type your password and sign in.
• After a moment, Outlook will set up your account.
• Click Done when done.

Your Outlook.com emails, contacts, and calendar will now sync with the desktop app!

Step 4 – Import the PST File into Outlook.com

After I got the PST file, the next step was to bring the file into Outlook.com. It is done as follows:

• Launch Windows Outlook (the desktop app).
• Go to File > Open & Export > Import/Export.
• Pick Import from another program or file, and then set the (.pst) file.
• Choose the option that best suits you in terms of duplicates (I chose “Do not import duplicates”).
• Hit Next and allow the process to complete.

The emails from your PST file are being imported into the desktop Outlook. Because Outlook.com is always in sync with the desktop one, your emails are pushed to the web automatically.

Tips to Make Your Migration Smooth

• Backup everything: Save copies of your OLM and PST files to a secure location.
• Stable Internet: A smooth file upload or synchronisation requires a good internet connection.
• Check after Import: Make sure all your emails and attachments are there.
• Patience: On some occasions, synchronisation might take longer than expected. Enjoy a cup of coffee!

FAQs from My Own Experience

Q: Can I import OLM files directly into Outlook.com?

A: Nope, OLM files are not supported by Outlook.com; you will have to convert them first.

Q: Is it safe to use third-party converters?

A: Yup! Just use a trusted, reputable and well-reviewed tool, such as OLM to Outlook PST Conversion Tool by Softaken for secure conversion.

Conclusion

It's not as scary as it seems to go from Outlook Mac to Outlook.com. Just make sure to take your time and back up anything that might cause problems on its way over–don't let bad mistakes slip through unchecked because there's no easy fix! By following this guide, you will be able to bring your OLM files easily onto Outlook.com.