Despite its popularity and merits, Outlook has flaws that prompt users to migrate. The native PST format can be a bottleneck, as it is not recognized by other mail systems. Yet, such files store all of your data: messages, attachments, calendars, tasks, etc. Neither Windows nor Mac has compatible tools aside from Outlook. Fortunately, you can open your files without it by following our guide.
Why Open PST?
The most common reason is migration between computers. Installing Outlook is time-consuming, and you may have to purchase a subscription. There are too many hurdles. We know how to open PST file without outlook and avoid data loss. You can do it for free in four ways!
Method 1: Use a Viewer
Viewers can open your file in the absence of Outlook. This free compact software for Windows OS also supports OST — another native mail format. Just install a viewer and allow it to scan your PC. Afterward, you can:
- view in which Outlook version they are created
- rearrange files
- generate reports
Method 2: Automatic Conversion
You can convert PST into a variety of formats recognized by other programs. File transformation will also let you share data with recipients who do not have Outlook.
For instance, the EML format is much more common than PST. The biggest structural difference is that every message is saved as a separate file. Aside from Outlook, you can open EML in Mozilla Firefox, Outlook Express, or Windows Live Mail.
After conversion, you can import your messages into another Windows mail client without a hitch. EML files are also recognized by Mac, so they are compatible with Apple Mail and Entourage.
Method 3: Migration to Gmail
If you are migrating to Gmail, use the free Google GAMMO Tool. It shows file contents and supports the import of messages, contacts, and calendars. You can transfer all or some of the folders. This system also has command line functionality, so you can launch it without the graphic interface.
First, create a Google account unless you have one. Next, download the tool and launch it. You are only three steps away from your goal:
- Browse to the location of your PST file.
- Choose which of its components will be transferred. For example, in addition to emails, contacts, and calendars, you may transfer the deleted folder.
- If necessary, set a date range. Google can import messages received or sent before or after a specific date.
Method 4: Creating Documents
Using a data extraction kit for Outlook, you can turn PST into different formats. For example, it will let you turn data into PDF, RTF, HTML, and TXT documents. HTML and TXT may also be generated in Outlook. To do this, click on the email you want to save and choose the format via “File” — “Save as”.
The Best Way to Open PST
Conversion to other formats is ideal as dedicated software preserves original formatting. You can also adjust the content by adding headers and footers, creating a table of contents, etc. What’s more, such tools usually come with a trial period. You can convert and open your PST for free!