How to Convert MBOX to EML? Best Techniques

Written By Shivam Rathore
Updated on March 26th, 2025

Summary: MBOX or mailbox files are of great use and can be accessed easily with several applications. These include Mozilla Thunderbird, Protonmail, Opera Mail, Mac Mail, and more. However, the files are not very scalable and portable to access within MS Outlook, Windows Live Mail, etc. So, in such cases, you can convert MBOX to EML (email message) for wide access and more storage. Get to know about it briefly along with free methods and an EasyTechTools MBOX Converter in this blog.

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Benefits of MBOX to EML Conversion

Users have various reasons why they prefer the EML file format over MBOX. Some significant ones to transfer MBOX emails to EML are mentioned as follows:

MBOX files contain large data altogether, whereas ML stores individual messages. Thus, easy to read and understand.
EML files consume less storage space than MBOX files and can be swiftly shared.
Easy to locate specific emails and also more secure than MBOX files, preventing corruption.
EML files can be backed up and also used for legal and compliance purposes with ease.
Better management and organization of mailbox data, increasing proficiency and speed.

With these factors, it is clear that converting MBOX to EML is optimal for accessing data across clients without hassle. Furthermore, continue to find the best ways to convert MBOX files to EML.

Native Solutions to Convert MBOX to EML Files

The manual method for this conversion can be performed in two ways using any MBOX-compatible email client. Here, we use the Thunderbird application, as it is easy to use and has built-in features for conversion. Learn the step-by-step procedure in the upcoming part.

Way 1: Change MBOX to EML by Save As Feature

Start Mozilla Thunderbird and move to your mailbox.
Select the MBOX files to convert from there and right-click them.
Further, click Save As and choose the EML file format from the options.
Finally, specify the destination and filename to save it and hit Save.

Way 2: Export MBOX to EML using Thunderbird Add-On

Run Thunderbird and install the ImportExportTools NG add-on.
Restart the application once done. Skip this step if already installed.
After that, browse to the inbox and select the MBOX folder.
Right-click to press ImportExportTools NG → Export all messages in a folder.
Afterward, choose EML, and the save dialog will open up.
There, pick a folder to store the file, and in the end, press Select Folder.
It will download MBOX to EML files and save them at the specified location.

You can also choose to simply drag and drop MBOX files on the desktop to save them as EML. The manual methods are completed, but they have some shortfalls, despite being free.

Loopholes of the Manual Method

Methods are not very suitable for large MBOX files containing big attachments.
Time-consuming, has multiple steps, and bulk transfer is not possible.
Contains risk and the possibility of losing data structure, formatting, and integrity.
Not all MBOX-compatible clients have built-in features for conversion.

So, choose a professional tool as discussed below for MBOX file conversion to EML. It is secure, trusted, and verified by experts to convert mailbox data.

Specialized Solution to Convert MBOX to EML Files

If the manual workarounds are not of great help to you, use the EasyTechTools MBOX Converter Tool. It is a top-notch utility with several intricate features to boost the output accurately. The tool allows bulk conversion of small and large MBOX files to EML and other clients at once. Additionally, it ensures that data integrity and structure are maintained and no loss occurs. Moreover, the tool is suitable for all beginner and expert-level users to run and perform conversions. Besides saving as EML, this tool converts MBOX to CSV, PDF, DOC, and other formats.

Steps to Save MBOX to EML Files

Run the MBOX File Converter Tool as an administrator and click Next.
Select an option to add MBOX files/folders and click Open. Press Next.
Further, preview data from tree format and select folders. Click Next.
Choose the file format button and opt for EML format from the options.
Afterward, apply filters and tap Path to Save for a new destination.
At last, click on Convert to save MBOX as EML.

Conclusion

Wrapping up, the blog defines particular reasons and methods to convert MBOX to EML. We have three solutions in all, comprising two manuals and a professional. The manual method, however, has limitations that affect the data and reduce the performance speed and proficiency. Whereas, using a professional tool is safe and quick for conversion of MBOX files as and when desired. You can browse both methods and use the one that aligns with your needs perfectly.

FAQ

Q1. How do I convert MBOX to EML?

Ans: Export MBOX to EML by following these steps:
1. Launch MBOX File Converter Software and add single or multiple MBOX files.
2. Preview the folders and select those to export from tree format. Tap Next.
3. Opt for the EML file format from the saving menu and choose filters.
4. Specify the new path to save, and finally, press Convert to complete.

Q2. Can multiple MBOX files be converted to EML at once?

Ans. Yes. You can swiftly perform multiple MBOX to EML conversions at once with the MBOX File Converter Tool. It allows you to add files and folders in bulk of any size and count without restrictions.

About The Author:

Shivam Rathore

Meet Shivam, an experienced SEO executive and content strategist. He combines creativity with strategy to craft engaging content that connects with audiences and supports brand goals. With strong expertise in digital marketing and content planning, Shivam helps businesses thrive online.