Emails are stored in MSG format in Outlook. A single email message with attachments and properties is stored in each MSG file. Opening these MSG emails in email programs like Windows Live Mail or Mozilla Thunderbird presents a challenge. You must either use a professional tool or a manual method to access the content. We will provide a straightforward explanation of both approaches in this guide.
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Why use Thunderbird or Windows Live Mail to open MSG files?
A lot of people move from Outlook to another email program. Because they are user friendly and free, Windows Live Mail and Thunderbird are popular options. They also support the widely used EML format. You can preserve the security and readability of your old emails by transferring MSG files to these applications.
How to manually open MSG in Thunderbird or Windows Live Mail
Although it takes some time, the manual approach is straightforward. It entails importing MSG emails into your preferred email application after saving them as EML files. Take the actions listed below.
- Launch Microsoft Outlook on your computer.
- Choose an MSG email to view in Windows Live Mail or Thunderbird.
- Drag and drop the chosen email from Outlook into a folder or onto your desktop.
- The file will be automatically saved in EML format.
- Now launch Windows Live Mail or Thunderbird.
- To import the saved EML files, drag them into the email folders of the chosen program.
This allows you to access the content of MSG emails. However, it can be exhausting to repeat the procedure for hundreds of emails. Not all formatting and attachments will look the same. It is best to use a direct solution for huge data conversion.
Fast fix using a sophisticated conversion technique
A reputable method like GainTools MSG Converter for managing large MSG files is to use a professional conversion program. Among other formats, this software converts MSG files to PST, EML, and MBOX. Emails that have been converted to EML can be opened in Thunderbird or Windows Live Mail without any restraction.
How it operates
- Install the converter software and run it.
- Add the MSG files or folders you want to convert.
- Select EML as the format for output.
- Choose a location to store the converted files.
- Begin the procedure and watch for it to finish.
You can drag and drop the converted EML files into Windows Live Mail or Thunderbird to open them immediately.
Important advantages of the Software
- Multiple MSG files can be converted at once.
- preserves the metadata and layout of email attachments.
- works with every major version of Windows.
- An intuitive UI with unambiguous steps
- Pre-conversion MSG file preview option
- There is a free demo version available for testing.
Which approach should you take?
The manual method is effective if you have a small number of MSG emails. No additional software is required, and it is free. But it can be limited and slow. However, a professional converter saves time when working with a large number of MSG files. It guarantees accuracy and prevents data loss. It is more sensible to use software for commercial or professional purposes.
Last reflections
MSG emails cannot be opened directly in Windows Live Mail or Thunderbird. You can drag and drop from Outlook to create EML files or use a professional converter for a quick and safe conversion. With either approach, you can maintain your email data in the application of your choosing. Your decision will be based on how many MSG files you wish to transfer and how much time you want to dedicate to the procedure.