Pradeep Kumar
As a user, have you ever found yourself in a situation where you want to convert OST to CSV? You’re not the only one who has experienced the same. Especially, when you want to import OST files to another email client that doesn’t support OST, but CSV does. The main reason is that the OST files are proprietary to Outlook and can’t be directly opened in other applications.
In this article, we will provide an overview of OST and CSV and the difference between OST and CSV. We will also describe the step-by-step process for converting OST to CSV files using the best and most reliable methods. One such method will include an OST to PST Converter.
Overview of OST and CSV Files
In this digital world, managing and storing the data is so important. We will explore two such file formats used in exchanging data.
OST: An OST file is a Microsoft proprietary file designed to be used in Outlook email clients. It stores a local copy of emails on the user’s device that helps them access their emails in the absence of internet connectivity. This file format has become an essential utility for many individuals and businesses who are surrounded by emails to communicate with others.
CSV: A CSV file is a plain-text format that separates the values of a table by a comma. It is mainly used to exchange tabular data between different applications.
Difference Between OST File and CSV File
| Feature | OST (Offline Storage Table) | CSV (Comma-Separated Value) |
| Purpose | Stores emails, contacts, and calendar data locally on a user’s computer | Mainly used to store and exchange tabular data with other applications. |
| Data storage | Locally stores data on the user’s device. | The file only contains text and numerical data, which are separated by commas. |
| Readability | OST files can only be read by Outlook or any other supported applications. | It can be read by many application which supports CSV file format like Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets. |
| Compatibility | This file has limited compatibility with Outlook only. | This is highly compatible with other applications that support CSV files. |
| File size | It has a limited file size. It warns with “Reached the Maximum Size Error” when it reaches the limit. | It has no file size limitation, but might be limited by device storage. |
How to Export OST Files to CSV?
There are many methods available to export OST to CSV. Here, we will discuss two main methods. Many users think the manual approach is the only way to achieve this conversion. But in this blog, we will provide a more efficient and hassle-free approach. This method not only saves time but also provides accuracy and reliability.
#1. Manual Method to Convert OST to CSV File Format
In this method, we will use Microsoft Outlook to export OST to CSV. As we know, Outlook provides an export feature, if you are aware of it, you can proceed with this method. If not, then stick with this steps below, Further we discuss another method for the same.
Steps to Convert OST to CSV Format
- First, start the MS Outlook.
- Then, go to the Menu bar and click File → Open and Export → Import/Export.
- Next, choose “Export to a file” and click Next.
- Now, opt for CSV (comma-separated value) and click Next.
- Then, pick the folder to be exported.
- Set the name and destination to save the file.
- Finally, click the Finish button.
The above steps can be used to Export OST Files to CSV, but you must keep in mind that you have the technical expertise or an expert to support you. Else it leads to data loss.
#2. Professional Way Using OST to CSV Converter
OST to PST Converter is an easy-to-use and powerful tool that helps to convert OST to CSV files. Using this converter, anyone can convert OST files to CSV format without technical expertise. It supports multiple file conversion, which saves time and increases productivity. Other optional features are available to choose which file or folder to export. To know how this tool works, please follow the below steps.
Steps to Export CSV File Using OST to CSV Converter
- First, download and run the OST to PST Converter Tool on your device.
- Then, pick Single or Multiple OST files and press Browse.
- After that, select the OST file and click the Open button.
- Now, choose the desired folder from the tree structure.
- Next, from the drop-down list, pick CSV as saving format.
- After that, press the Path to Save button to select your saving file location.
- At last, hit the Convert Button to export the CSV file.
Read More: Convert Outlook OST file to PST Format
Conclusion
In this article, we have mentioned the overview and difference between OST and CSV, and also we have discussed the efficient and hassle-free approach to convert OST to CSV file format. The manual method uses the Outlook application, and the professional method uses an OST to PST converter Tool. The manual method is time-consuming and needs technical expertise. The professional method has an easy-to-use interface and doesn’t take much time, which makes it an ideal way to solve the problem.