How to Import MSG Files into Thunderbird: A Step-by-Step Guide

What Is an MSG File and Why Can’t You Open It in Thunderbird?

An MSG file is a single email message file created and saved by Microsoft Outlook. It stores data, like the message body, attachments, sender/receiver info, date, and more. These files are particular to Outlook’s environment.

But Thunderbird doesn’t support MSG files directly. That’s because Thunderbird is designed to read emails stored in formats like MBOX (for folders) or EML (for individual messages). As a result, when you try to open an MSG file directly in Thunderbird, nothing happens, or it appears corrupted. That’s why conversion is necessary. First, you need to convert MSG files to a Thunderbird-supported format, and then import them.

Why You Might Need to Import MSG Files to Thunderbird

There are several real-world situations where importing MSG files into Thunderbird becomes essential:

• Migration from Microsoft Outlook to Thunderbird often requires importing old MSG email files.
• MSG files shared by colleagues or clients may need to be accessed without relying on Outlook.
• You’re trying to archive old email data in a more portable and open-source email platform.
• Managing emails across multiple platforms becomes easier when data is available in a cross-client compatible format.

Whatever the case, the goal is the same to access your MSG data in Thunderbird without losing content or formatting.

Two Easy Ways to Import MSG Files into Thunderbird

There are mainly two methods available:

• Manual Technique Using MS Outlook and Thunderbird
• Automated Conversion Using a Professional Tool

Let’s navigate to each method in detail so you can pick the best option based on your needs.

Method 1: Manually Import MSG into Thunderbird Using Outlook and Add-ons

This method is suitable if:

• You already have Microsoft Outlook installed and configured.
• You’re dealing with a small number of MSG files.
• You don’t mind doing a few extra steps.

Follow the Steps below to Import MSG Files into Thunderbird

Step 1: Import MSG Files into MS Outlook

• Open Microsoft Outlook on your system.
• Create a new folder inside Outlook (for example: “Imported MSGs”).
• Now, drag and drop your MSG files into this folder.
• They will now appear as regular emails in Outlook.

Step 2: Export Emails from Outlook as EML

Now, you need to migrate Outlook messages to Thunderbird as EML:

• Select the emails from the folder you created.
• Drag these emails and drop them into a folder on your desktop.
• This will save them in .eml format, which Thunderbird supports.

Step 3: Install ImportExportTools NG Add-on in Thunderbird

• Open Thunderbird.
• Click on the menu icon ≡ > Go to Add-ons and Themes.
• Search for ImportExportTools NG.
• Click Install and restart Thunderbird if prompted.

Step 4: Import EML Files into Thunderbird

• In Thunderbird, right-click on a folder.
• Go to ImportExportTools NG > Import all EML files from a directory.
• Choose the desktop folder where your EML files are saved.
• Click OK. Your emails will now appear in Thunderbird.

Note: This method doesn’t support bulk conversion for thousands of emails and often struggles with attachments or metadata.

Limitations of the Manual Approach

Although it’s free, the manual approach has several downsides:

• Requires both Outlook and Thunderbird to be installed and configured properly.
• Along with that, it is time-consuming for large batches of MSG files.
• High risk of losing attachments, inline images, or email formatting.
• Also, there is no support for batch folder-wise conversion.
• Not beginner-friendly, especially if you’re unfamiliar with technical setups.

Method 2: Automated Tool to Import MSG Files into Thunderbird

Handling a large number of MSG files or working without Microsoft Outlook can make the manual import process time-consuming and unreliable. To avoid these limitations, using the Aryson MSG Converter Tool is highly effective. It preserves all essential email elements such as attachments, metadata, formatting, and folder structure. Additionally, it features a simple and intuitive interface, making it suitable for both technical and non-technical users. This tool eliminates the need for Outlook installation and streamlines the entire MSG to Thunderbird import process with ease.

Follow the Simple Steps to Batch Import MSG into Thunderbird:

• Download and install the Aryson MSG Converter Tool on your existing system.
• Click on Select Files or Select Folder to add the MSG files you want to import.
• After adding the MSG file, it displays a preview of all the added MSG emails.
• From the upcoming panel of the software, pick Thunderbird and move next.
• Also, you can use the Mail Filter option to convert only specific MSG emails.
• Click on the Convert button to begin importing MSG files to Thunderbird.

Conclusion

Throughout this blog, we explored two reliable ways to import MSG files into Thunderbird. The manual method involves using Outlook and Thunderbird add-ons to convert MSG files into EML format, which can then be imported. While it’s a workable option for a few emails, it demands time and technical effort. For a faster and more efficient approach, above above-recommended automated solution is best to simplify the process. Depending on the number of files and available resources, choosing the right method ensures a smooth and hassle-free import experience.

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About The Author:

Rohan Wiese

Rohan Wiese is a Technical Writer at Aryson Technologies. He is an expert Email Forensic, Cloud Computing, and a passionate nerd with over 10 years of experience in technical content writing. He writes about Cloud Migration, Database Recovery, Email Backup, Windows, Mac, and Tech.