Import PST Data into Apple Mail Using Different Techniques

Ritu Roy | data migration email conversion how to mac os MBOX outlook software technology | 5 minutes read | Modified on: 11-11-2025
How to Export Mailbox from Outlook to Apple Mail

There are several ways to transfer email data between different mail servers, and the same applies when importing a PST file into Apple Mail. In this article, we’ll explore the simplest and most effective methods to complete this process. You can easily move your email data directly to your Mac Mail account. By following a few straightforward steps, you’ll be able to import Outlook PST files along with their attachments into Apple Mail.

Why Move PST Files to Apple Mail?

Let’s explore the main reasons users choose to import PST files into Mac Mail:

1. Transitioning from Windows to macOS: When moving from a Windows computer to a Mac, users often want to carry over their Outlook emails. Since Outlook stores mailbox data in PST format, importing these files into Apple Mail ensures that all emails remain accessible on the new system.

2. Viewing Outlook Emails on a Mac: If you primarily use a Mac but still need access to messages stored in Outlook, importing the PST file into Apple Mail makes it easy to read and manage those emails without switching between applications.

3. Using Apple Mail as the Main Email Client: Some users prefer Apple Mail’s interface and functionality over Outlook. To make it their default email platform, they import PST files so that all previous emails are available in one centralized location.

4. Taking Advantage of Apple Mail’s Features: Apple Mail offers unique tools and integrations that appeal to many users. By transferring their Outlook data, users can benefit from these features while keeping their existing messages intact.

Here’s a rewritten, original version of your section with the same meaning and clear structure, avoiding duplicate content while keeping it professional and easy to follow:

Manual Method to Import Outlook PST Files into Apple Mail

You can manually move your Outlook PST data to Apple Mail by setting up your email account and transferring messages step by step. Here’s how to do it:

#1: Enable IMAP in Gmail

  1. Sign in to your Gmail account.
  2. Click the gear icon and choose See All Settings.
  3. Open the Forwarding and POP/IMAP tab.
  4. Select Enable IMAP and click Save Changes to confirm.

#2: Add Gmail to Outlook

  1. Launch Microsoft Outlook on your computer.
  2. Go to File → Add Account.
  3. In the Account Settings window, click New → choose Email Account → then select Next.
  4. Pick Manual Setup or Additional Server Types, then click Next again.
  5. Choose Internet Email and hit Next.
  6. Enter your Name, Email Address, and Password.
  7. Change the Account Type to IMAP.
  8. For the Incoming Mail Server, type imap.gmail.com; for the Outgoing Mail Server (SMTP), type smtp.gmail.com.
  9. Click More Settings and open the Outgoing Server tab.
  10. Check My outgoing server (SMTP) requires authentication and select Use the same settings as my incoming mail server.
  11. Press OK, then Next, and finally Finish to complete setup.

#3: Transfer Outlook Emails to Gmail

  • In Outlook, drag and drop the emails or folders you want to move into your Gmail mailbox.
  • Wait for synchronization to complete, your messages will appear in your Gmail account.

#4: Import Gmail Emails into Apple Mail

  1. Open Apple Mail on your Mac.
  2. Go to Mail → Preferences → Accounts.
  3. Click the “+” icon to add a new account.
  4. Enter your Name, Email Address, and Password, then click Continue.
  5. Once the account is configured, you can drag and drop the synced Gmail emails into Apple Mail folders.

Drawbacks of the Manual Process

While this method works, it’s quite technical and requires attention to detail. Missing even a small step can cause sync issues or incomplete transfers. The process is also time-consuming, especially with large PST files.

For a smoother and more reliable migration, it’s recommended to use a professional PST to Apple Mail converter tool, which automates the process and ensures data integrity.

Import PST to Apple Mail Instantly – Automated Solution

Because the manual method can be time-consuming and requires technical expertise, using an automated tool is a much more efficient approach. The PST to MBOX Converter software simplifies the entire process and is compatible with all macOS versions above 10.8 (Mountain Lion).

With this utility, users can either directly move their Outlook PST files into Apple Mail or first convert them into MBOX format, which is fully supported by Mac Mail. Additionally, the program offers the flexibility to migrate data through the IMAP protocol, ensuring a seamless transfer of emails and attachments.

Free Trial Version Details

The software is available in two editions — Demo and Licensed.

  • The free demo version lets users convert or migrate up to 25 emails from Outlook to Apple Mail, making it easy to explore its functionality and interface.
  • To remove restrictions and access full features, users can upgrade to the Professional version by activating it with a valid license key.

Import Outlook PST to Apple Mail in 5 Simple Steps

Follow these quick steps to easily move your Outlook PST files into your Apple Mail account:

#1: Open the PST Converter tool on your system and upload the required email files in .pst format. Click Next to proceed.

#2: Use the checkboxes to select the specific files or folders you want to transfer, then click Next again.

#3: From the list of saving options, choose either the MBOX format or the IMAP option based on your preferred method of import.

#4: If you select IMAP, enter your Email Address, Password, and the corresponding IMAP server details to establish the connection.

#5: Finally, click on the Export button to begin converting or migrating your PST files.

In just a few minutes, the process will finish, and your Outlook emails will appear within your Apple Mail (Mac Mail) account.  

Conclusion

No matter the reason for transferring your data, importing PST files into Apple Mail can be done easily using the methods outlined above. We’ve covered both manual and automated solutions to help you move Outlook data to your Mac Mail account efficiently. Choose the method that best fits your technical comfort level and needs. For most users, the automated tool is the preferred option for a smooth and error-free migration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q) What is the quickest way to import multiple PST files into Apple Mail?
A) The fastest and most convenient method is to use the specialized conversion tool discussed in this guide. It enables direct migration of Outlook PST files to Apple Mail within minutes, without requiring any complex configuration.

Q) How many PST files can be imported using the MacArmy application?
A) The software supports importing an unlimited number of PST files. You can upload several files at once or even select an entire folder containing multiple PST files for conversion.

Q) Does the tool support Outlook 2019 PST files?
A) Yes. The program is fully compatible with PST files from all Outlook versions, including Outlook 2019, allowing seamless import into Apple Mail.

Q) Why can’t Outlook data be exported directly to Apple Mail?
A) Outlook and Apple Mail use different file formats, so a direct export isn’t possible. However, by converting the PST file to a supported format or migrating through IMAP, you can successfully access your Outlook emails in Apple Mail.