Email client migration is a requirement in businesses due to system upgrades, structural changes, and the need to maintain workflow. Migrating email data stored in Apple Mail’s .emlx file can become complicated. Therefore, to access this file, the user can migrate the data to a more widely supported file format. But how can the user convert EMLX to MBOX file format? Both the manual and the specialized EMLX Converter Tool are available for converting .emlx files to .mbox files. This blog will walk you through the process and help you determine the right method.
An EMLX file is a plain text file that contains an individual email message saved by Apple Mail on macOS. An MBOX file stores multiple email messages in a single file, used by Thunderbird, Postbox, etc. Users often convert .emlx files to .mbox files for more flexibility and compatibility.
Difference Between EMLX and MBOX Files
Below is a table that explains the technical differences between an EMLX file and an MBOX file format. Read the table carefully to gain a better understanding about both the file formats.
| Basis | EMLX: Email Message | MBOX: Mailbox |
| Type | Proprietary | Open Standard |
| Structure | Stores one email per file | Stores multiple emails per file |
| File Extension | .emlx | .mbox |
| Used by | Apple Mail | Thunderbird, Postbox, etc. |
| Compatibility | Limited | Widely supported |
| Portability | Low | High |
| Easy to read & edit | Not human-readable & editable | Easily readable & editable |
Need to Convert EMLX Files to MBOX
Switching from EMLX to MBOX boosts compatibility, simplifies email migration, and makes email archiving manageable. Take a moment to review the points below to get a clear understanding:
- The EMLX file format is primarily used by Apple Mail. Whereas MBOX is an open format that is widely supported across platforms.
- MBOX stores all messages into a single file, which can be easily managed and handled. The EMLX file stores a single message in a file, resulting in a large number of files.
- Many analysis and search tools prefer MBOX files and not EMLX.
- Since MBOX files are widely supported, they are easy to share as compared to EMLX files.
Head to the next section to find out how to perform the conversion process.
How to Convert EMLX to MBOX?
You can complete this EMLX conversion either manually or by using a conversion tool. While the manual process is possible, it can be complex and requires effort. Alternatively, using an automated conversion tool makes the process faster and seamless. Let’s go through both the methods in detail.
Export Multiple EMLX Files into MBOX Using Apple Mail
Make sure to have a Mac computer with Apple Mail installed before starting this procedure. This method is suitable when you want to batch export thousands of emails stored in a single mailbox.
Follow the instructions given below to initiate the conversion process:
- Open Apple Mail.
- Go to Mailbox > New Mailbox.
- Select a location and copy your emails to this new folder.
- Right-click on the folder and choose Export Mailbox…
- Choose a destination folder and click Choose.
- Now, go to File > Import Mailboxes….
- Select Files in MBOX Format and select the exported .mbox file.
Limitations: It exports the full mailbox, so there is no option for selective conversion. It may or may not exclude attachments depending on the version of macOS.
A Specialized Tool to Convert EMLX to MBOX
The EMLX to MBOX Converter is an advanced tool that allows users to convert EMLX files into multiple formats. It also supports smooth migration to email platforms such as Outlook, Thunderbird, etc. One of its best features is saving attachments separately, which can be useful to businesses and in legal matters. Furthermore, it supports bulk conversion, preserves the folder structure, and filters emails for targeted conversions. This tool is fully compatible with Windows and macOS.
Simple steps to convert EMLX files to MBOX successfully:
- Download and run the tool.
- Choose from Single File/Multiple Files and Select Folder to add the EMLX file.
- Now, select the EMLX files from the tree structure, preview them, and click Next.
- Choose File Formats and pick MBOX as the saving format.
- Opt for additional features if needed.
- Click on Path to Save to choose the location to save your file.
- Finally, click Convert.
Conclusion
The ability to convert EMLX to MBOX is crucial for ensuring compatibility across platforms while maintaining data integrity. Through this blog, we have explored both manual and specialized conversion methods. The manual approach involves complex steps and is prone to errors. Whereas a specialized EMLX to MBOX Converter offers faster, more precise, and error-free results. It is a reliable choice among both individuals and businesses.
Related Post: Convert MSG to MBOX Format.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q- How do I convert EMLX to MBOX?
Ans- Open Apple Mail. Go to Mailbox > New Mailbox > Copy your emails to a folder and right-click on it. Select Export Mailbox and click on Choose. Again, go to File > Import Mailboxes and select the exported MBOX file.
Q- What is the best EMLX to MBOX converter?
Ans- The EMLX to MBOX Converter Tool is the best EMLX converter tool. It not only converts EMLX to MBOX but also to various file formats and other email clients. It allows bulk conversion, excludes attachments, and filters mail.
