How to Convert EML to MBOX on Mac and Windows
Updated on
September 19, 2025
5 minutes Read
User Query: ”I have multiple old emails saved in EML files, now I want to access them on my Mac. Is there any fast and secure method to migrate EML files to MBOX?“
Summary: An EML file is a popular file format among users to keep their email messages as a backup. However, to access the emails in an MBOX-based email client, the user needs to convert EML to MBOX. Therefore, this post discusses the best methods to convert an EML file to MBOX quickly without errors. It is simple to follow these methods for small-scale migration. Therefore, we’ll discuss the fastest and safest way for bulk conversion using the dedicated MacSonik EML Converter Tool.
Why convert EML files to MBOX?
EML file to MBOX conversion offers several benefits:
- MBOX format works with popular email clients such as Thunderbird, Apple Mail, etc.
- Unlike EML, MBOX files store all emails in a single file, which is easier to manage.
- MBOX works best for users who need a format that works seamlessly on both Mac and Windows.
- Emails in MBOX files provide a convenient backup format.
- Importing MBOX into a desktop client lets you view and manage emails without the internet.
Methods to Convert EML to MBOX on Mac and Windows
Below are two trusted methods you can use:
- The Manual Method: free but works best for small-scale conversions.
- An Automated Tool: best for bulk conversion, saves time, and ensures data integrity.
The Manual Method to Export EML files into MBOX
You can perform this manual process using Thunderbird on either Mac or Windows. Follow these steps to change EML to MBOX:
- Initially, install and open Thunderbird on your computer (Mac or Windows) and set up your account.
- Then, download and install the ImportExportTools NG add-on from the Add-ons.
- Now, create a new folder in Thunderbird to hold the converted emails.
- Further, find your EML files on your computer, then drag and drop them to the new folder created in Thunderbird.
- Finally, right-click the folder → ImportExportTools NG → Export folder to save as an MBOX file.
It can be more efficient with a limited number of files, but it’s complicated for bulk migration. Always check to ensure all emails are transferred into the exported file.
Limitations of the Manual Method
- Highly time-consuming for users using multiple EML files.
- The manual EML to MBOX conversion is quite complicated for non-technical users.
- There is a risk of data loss and corruption if Thunderbird freezes.
- Some attachments or formatting may not transfer properly.
- Users need to install and configure Thunderbird add-ons on their system.
- The manual method is quite complicated for non-technical users.
An Automated Tool to Convert EML to MBOX
Utilize a professional EML Converter Tool for a larger, faster, safer conversion. The tool saves time by keeping the folder structure, attachments, and formatting intact as the original document. Moreover, the tool can process hundreds or thousands of EML files into MBOX format. Also, the EML Converter Tool operates easily on Windows and Mac without requiring any additional add-ons.
Steps to export EML files into MBOX:
- Initially, install the converter tool on your Mac or Windows and open it.
- Then, click the Select Files option to upload your EML files and click Next.
- Afterwards, preview the emails and choose specific folders or emails for conversion. Then, Click Next.
- Then, select MBOX as the export File Format, and enable the required filters to refine your export.
- Finally, click Convert to begin the Transfer.
The tool will quickly convert your EML files to MBOX format.
Why Choose a Professional EML Converter Tool?
The tool provides some benefits to users while they convert EML to MBOX files or other file formats:
- Preserves email formatting, metadata, and attachments.
- High efficiency by migrating thousands of emails all at once.
- Compatible with both Mac and Windows.
- Allows users to easily import EML to Office 365 or other email clients.
- Allows selective migration, has duplicate removal, and can filter by date.
- Converts small or large batches of emails in minutes, not hours.
Conclusion
In this blog, we looked at how to convert EML to MBOX on Mac and Windows. The manual method is free and works on a small-scale conversion, but it is slow. Also, it does not maintain the same folder structure and has limitations for larger transfers. A professional EML Converter Tool is quick, safe, and converts accurately, all while maintaining your folder structure and the formatting of your email. If this is important to you, we recommend the tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can we export EML files to MBOX in bulk? Ans. Yes. A professional EML Converter Tool allows you to export thousands of EML files to MBOX format in a single process. It preserves folder structure, email formatting, and attachments, making it ideal for bulk conversion without data loss or corruption.
Q2. Is it possible to perform selective migration in this tool? Ans. Absolutely. The tool offers advanced filters like date range, specific folder selection, and duplicate exclusion. These features let you migrate only the emails you need, saving time and ensuring a more organized conversion.
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