OST (Offline Storage Table) files are created by Microsoft Outlook when connected to Exchange Server, Microsoft 365, or IMAP accounts. These files allow users to work offline and automatically synchronize changes once the connection is restored. However, many users need to export OST data files to EML format to access emails in applications like Windows Live Mail, Thunderbird, or other EML-supported clients.
In this guide, we will explain 2 free methods to Datavare OST to EML Converter format safely and effectively. We will also discuss how can help when free methods are not suitable for your situation.
Why Convert OST to EML?
There are several common reasons for converting OST files into EML format:
Migrating emails from Outlook to other email clients
Creating individual email file backups
Accessing emails without Exchange connectivity
Opening emails in multiple EML-supported platforms
Extracting selected messages for legal or business purposes
Since OST files are linked to Outlook profiles and Exchange accounts, they cannot be opened directly in other applications. Therefore, exporting them to EML becomes necessary.
Method 1: Export Emails from Outlook Using Drag & Drop (Free Method)
This is one of the easiest free methods, but it requires Outlook to be installed and the OST file to be accessible.
Steps to Follow:
Open Microsoft Outlook.
Ensure the OST file is connected and fully synchronized.
Open the folder containing the emails you want to export.
Select single or multiple emails.
Drag and drop the selected emails to a folder on your desktop.
Outlook automatically saves each email in .eml format when dragged outside.
Advantages:
Completely free
No third-party software required
Simple and quick for small data exports
Limitations:
Only works if Outlook profile is active
Not suitable for bulk conversion
Time-consuming for large mailboxes
Cannot export entire mailbox at once
Does not work with orphaned OST files
This method is best for exporting a few important emails rather than entire mailbox data.
Method 2: Convert OST to PST, Then Export to EML
Another free technique involves converting the OST file to PST format first and then extracting emails as EML.
Step 1: Convert OST to PST
Open Outlook.
Go to File > Open & Export > Import/Export.
Select Export to a file.
Choose Outlook Data File (.pst).
Select the mailbox folder.
Save the PST file.
Step 2: Extract Emails as EML
After creating the PST file:
Open the exported PST in Outlook.
Drag and drop emails from PST to your desktop.
Each email will be saved as an EML file.
Advantages:
Free solution
Allows larger exports than direct drag method
Maintains email formatting
Limitations:
Requires Outlook installation
Cannot handle corrupted OST files
Multi-step process
May not preserve folder structure fully
Time-consuming for large data
This method is helpful if you need to export multiple folders but still requires manual work.
Challenges with Free Methods
Although these two methods are free, they come with several restrictions:
No support for orphaned or inaccessible OST files
Cannot repair damaged files
Risk of data loss during manual handling
Not suitable for bulk or enterprise-level migration
No automated batch conversion
If your OST file is disconnected from Exchange Server or Outlook profile, free solutions will not work.
Professional Alternative for Reliable Conversion
When manual methods fail or when dealing with large mailbox data, a professional solution becomes necessary. offers a direct way to convert OST files into EML format without needing Outlook connectivity.
software allows users to:
Convert orphaned OST files
Export entire mailbox to EML at once
Maintain folder hierarchy
Preserve attachments and metadata
Perform batch conversion
Handle large and corrupted files
Unlike manual methods, it ensures data accuracy and saves time.
How Simplifies OST to EML Conversion
Install and open the software.
Select the OST file from your system.
Preview mailbox data before exporting.
Choose EML as the output format.
Select the destination folder.
Click Convert to begin the process.
The tool processes the entire mailbox quickly while keeping the original structure intact.
If you only need to export a few emails and your Outlook account is active, free methods may work. However, for larger data sets or inaccessible OST files, automated solutions are more effective.
Final Words
Exporting OST data files to EML format can be simple when the file is accessible and Outlook is properly configured. The two free methods discussed—drag and drop, and converting OST to PST first—are practical for small-scale needs.
However, these manual techniques come with limitations, especially when handling large, corrupted, or orphaned OST files. In such cases, provides a reliable and secure way to Export OST to EML File Format without data loss.
Before choosing a method, consider the size of your mailbox, file condition, and technical expertise. While free solutions are useful for limited tasks, professional tools ensure faster, safer, and more complete email conversion.
