Best Ways to View or Open OST File Without Outlook

Written By Addy Wang
Updated on February 11th, 2025

OST files are commonly used by Microsoft Outlook to store copies of emails, contacts, and other data for offline use. These files are created when you set up an Exchange or IMAP email account in Outlook. OST files won’t open on any platform other than MS Outlook. However, if you need to view or open an OST file without Outlook installed on your devices, go for the expert-recommended Outlook OST to PST Conversion Tool. It is an easy-to-use and reliable solution for all. Alternatively, this blog also discusses some free manual procedures that will help you access or open your OST file effectively.

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Reasons to View OST Files Without Outlook

There are several reasons why you might need to open OST files without Outlook such as:

If your Outlook account is damaged and you are unable to access the OST file in MS Outlook.
Sometimes, you need to open an OST file from a backup or recovery mode where Outlook is not available.
When you want to switch to another email client, you may need to open OST files without MS Outlook.
If you need to access or view an OST file without opening it directly in MS Outlook due to privacy and security concerns.

How to Open OST File Without Outlook 365?

Due to some situations, you need to access or open OST files without Outlook. Therefore, this section will explain the manual and a professional tool for the best results. Additionally, there is no direct manual method available to open OST files without MS Outlook. However, if you don’t want to use Outlook then directly use a professional tool for quick results. Also, we discuss the limitations and benefits of using both methods.

How to Open Orphaned OST File With MS Outlook Manually?

Important Note: To perform a manual method, you need to install or run MS Outlook on your system. However, this method helps you convert Outlook OST to PST to view all the data present in it.

Firstly, launch MS Outlook on your systems.
Now, click on File and choose Open & Export option.
Select the Import/Export button from the given list.
Afterward, choose Export to a File and click on Next.
Further, select Outlook Data File(.pst) from the list. Press Next.
Subsequently, choose OST files to export in PST file format.
In the end, specify the location to save the resultant file and click Finish.

Limitations of the Manual Method

The OST files should be associated with MS Outlook or Exchange Server in offline mode.
It requires technical skills and a good understanding of MS Outlook to open OST files.
Decrease the data privacy, originality, and accessibility while performing the manual method.

Dedicated Software to Open OST File Without Outlook Windows 10

The Outlook OST to PST Conversion Tool is one of the best and most reliable solutions to open OST files without MS Outlook. This tool is specially developed to access OST files without Outlook in all the latest Windows and Mac versions. In addition, it imports OST data into multiple email clients including Yahoo, AOL, Hotmail, Thunderbird, and more. The best usage of this tool is that it converts multiple OST files at once. Also, allows you to remove duplicate emails based on your requirements and preview the content before saving it.

Convert OST to PDF, PST, MBOX, and other file formats.
Provide a simple and user-interactive interface to operate smoothly.
Support all types of OST files created on any MS Outlook version.
A free demo version of this tool is also available to perform this operation.

Steps to Read OST File Without Outlook

Firstly, download and install the Outlook OST to PST Conversion Tool as an admin.
Now, choose the Single File or Multiple Files/Folders option to add an OST and click Next.
Afterward, the tree structure preview is opened. You will see the files and folders of the added OST file.
Double-tap to open the added OST file and view its email and attachments in the panel.
Further, if you want to save the OST file in a compatible format then, select folders and press Next.
Select the Save As option from the drop-down list, say PDF, or PST.
Later, apply advanced features as per your need. Specify the location to Save the resultant file.
In the end, click on Convert to convert the process.

Conclusion

To wrap up, if you are trying to open OST file without Outlook, it can be challenging. However, with the right tools and methods, the process becomes simple. We have discussed the top two methods to achieve this—one manual and one using a professional tool. The manual method converts OST files into PST format but allows you to open only one file at a time. On the other hand, a professional tool lets you open OST files in multiple formats and email clients. Moreover, it can even access corrupted OST files, making it a more efficient solution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How to Open an OST File without Outlook?

Ans: Follow the below steps to open the OST file without Outlook:
1. Launch the Outlook OST to PST Conversion Tool on your device.
2. Now, select Options to add OST files and click the Next button.
3. Afterward, preview and select the OST files to open. Press Next.
4. Further, choose the Saving Format from the given list.
5. Use optional features and define the path to save.
6. Lastly, click on Convert to complete the process.

Q2. How do I Read an OST File?

Ans: By using the Outlook OST to PST Conversion Tool, you can easily read an OST file without MS Outlook. This tool provides an option to preview the content of an OST file before migrating it into other formats. Additionally, this tool allows users to use advanced features like removing duplicates, applying date filters, and many more.

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.