How to Import PST to Thunderbird without Outlook: A DIY Guide

Written By Addy Wang
Updated on February 7th, 2025

Summary:Importing from PST to Thunderbird is a common requirement for many users who want to switch from Outlook to Thunderbird. PST files are used by MS Outlook to store emails, contacts, and other important data. But, unfortunately, Thunderbird doesn’t support the direct import of PST files. Thus, this article explains all the best methods to import PST to Thunderbird. Additionally, directly use the PST Migration Tool for quick and reliable results.

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Why Import PST File to Thunderbird?

There are various reasons why users prefer Thunderbird instead of MS Outlook, including:

Thunderbird provides a simple and easy-to-use GUI as compared to Outlook.
It gives advanced features and filters, while Outlook usually costs high.
To keep the data more secure and easily sharable on another device.
Highly compatible with all Windows, Mac, and Linux versions.

How do I Import Outlook Emails to Thunderbird?

Many users want to use Thunderbird for its amazing features, so they need to convert PST into Thunderbird. In this section, we discuss the manual and a professional tool for this process. Also, explain the benefits and limitations of using both methods.

How to Import PST to Thunderbird Manually?

There are two manual methods available for this conversion. However, there might be a chance of losing data while performing the manual process, and it contains some limitations.

Method 1: Manually Open PST File in Thunderbird Using MS Outlook

To perform this operation, first, you have to import PST files into MS Outlook and then, import them, into Thunderbird. Follow the execution steps carefully:

Step 1: Import PST Files into MS Outlook

Firstly, open MS Outlook on your system.
Now, click on File and choose Open & Export.
Select Import/Export and click on Import from Another Program or file.
Afterward, choose Outlook Data File (PST).
Further, select PST files to import and click Next.
Browse the location to save the resultant file.
Lastly, remove duplicates as per your need and click Finish.

Step 2: Import PST Files from MS Outlook to Thunderbird

Firstly, use MS Outlook as a default program.
Now, run Thunderbird on your system.
After that, click on Tools and choose Import.
Further, click on Mail and select Outlook.
Browse the PST file and choose the items or folders.
Lastly, press Finish to complete the process.

Method 2: Import PST to Thunderbird Using Google Takeout

Follow the below steps to perform a manual procedure:

Firstly, configure Outlook to Gmail.
With this, your PST files are accessible in Gmail.
Now, open Google Takeout to save PST as MBOX.
Afterward, run Thunderbird and install the ImportExportTools NG.
Further, go to Tools, right-click, and select ImportExportTools NG.
Choose Import MBOX File and select MBOX files.
Select the folder where your PST file (now MBOX) is stored.
Lastly, click on OK to complete the process.

Limitations of the Manual Method

Manual methods are very complex, lengthy, and time-consuming.
Chances of losing data privacy, integrity, and accessibility.
Requires technical skills and a good understanding of MS Outlook.
It requires the installation of MS Outlook and Thunderbird on your system.

Dedicated Software to Convert PST to Thunderbird without Outlook

The PST Migration Tool is one of the best and most reliable solutions for converting PST files into Thunderbird. This tool has advanced features for easier conversion and backup of PST data including emails and attachments into different email clients. In addition, this top-notch utility allows users to preview the content and provide a simple and easy-to-use GUI.

It convert PST to PDF, CSV, GIF, JPG, and 15+ file formats.
Offer an option to remove duplicate emails based on your need.
High Compatibility with all Windows OS versions.

Steps to Import PST to Thunderbird:

Firstly, install and download the PST Migration Tool.
Choose the Single File or Multiple Files/Folders to add a file and click Next.
After that, Preview the content and select the files to convert. Press Next.
Now, pick Saving Format as Thunderbird from the drop-down list.
Further, use Optional features and define the Path to Save the resultant file.
In the end, click on the Convert option to complete the migration process.

Conclusion

To wrap up, Thunderbird is the most popular email service and comes with several benefits. Therefore, many users prefer Thunderbird. Thus, this article discussed the best method to import PST to Thunderbird. However, the manual process is only suitable for small files. If you have a larger data file, use a professional tool for ease and direct results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How is Google Takeout helpful to import PST files to Thunderbird?

Ans: Google Takeout indirectly helps in importing PST files to Thunderbird with the Outlook configuration. Follow the above manual methods to perform this process using Google Takeout.

Q2. How can the tool assist me if I don’t know where my PST file is saved?

Ans: PST Migration Tool easily imports your PST into Thunderbird even if you don’t know where your PST file is saved. This tool automatically takes the PST file from the selected folder.

About The Author:

Addy Wang

Addy Wang is a talented content writer with a passion for creating engaging and informative articles. With a keen eye for detail and a strong command of language, Addy has the ability to craft compelling pieces that resonate with readers.