You can convert EML to PST either manually using Outlook or with dedicated utilities that batch-process folders and keep metadata and attachments intact.
Quick manual methods
- Drag-and-drop into Outlook: Create a new folder in Outlook, select EML files in File Explorer, and drag them into the folder; then export via File > Open & Export > Import/Export > Export to a file > Outlook Data File (.pst) to produce a PST.
- Open With Outlook: Right-click EML files > Open with > Outlook to load messages, then use Outlook's Export to PST wizard as above; this works best for smaller sets of files.
Free options and limits
- Online converters exist, but many impose small file-size caps (for example, around 1 MB) and are unsuitable for bulk or sensitive mail due to upload constraints and privacy concerns.
- Some desktop tools offer a trial that converts a limited number of items per folder, which can help evaluate accuracy before purchase; check limits like "25 items per folder” in free trials to plan batches.
Recommended desktop tools
- Outlook Freeware "Convert EML to PST” is a utility designed specifically to package EML into a PST, useful when Outlook import/export is impractical for large trees of EML.
- Vendors like vMail and Vartika provide batch conversion with preservation of HTML, inline images, headers, and attachments; trials help validate fidelity before committing to large jobs.
Best practices
- Preserve structure: Choose tools that keep folder hierarchy and HTML/inline images intact to avoid rework after import into Outlook.
- Test a sample: Run a small pilot set and inspect in Outlook for headers, dates, sender/recipient, attachments, and inline images before full conversion.
- Avoid privacy risks: Prefer local desktop tools for sensitive mail rather than uploading to online converters with strict caps or unclear retention policies.
Step-by-step: manual export via Outlook
- In Outlook, create a temporary folder for import; 2) Select EML files in File Explorer and drag them into the folder; 3) In Outlook, go to File > Open & Export > Import/Export; 4) Choose Export to a file > Outlook Data File (.pst); 5) Select the folder you populated and enable "Include subfolders” if needed; 6) Choose a destination and finish to create a PST.
When to use an EML to PST Converter free
- Use a "free” desktop trial when you need batch processing, filters, and accurate preservation beyond what drag-and-drop provides, but your set is small enough to fit the trial's per-folder limits; this lets you validate quality without cost before scaling up