Convert OST to PST from Outlook 2021, 2019, 2016 and 2013

Microsoft Outlook is a widely used email client that stores mailbox data in two primary file formats: OST (Offline Storage Table) and PST (Personal Storage Table). OST files are typically used when working offline or with Exchange accounts, allowing users to access emails and other data without an internet connection. However, there are times when you need to convert OST to PST to ensure portability, recover data, or migrate to a new system. Whether you're using Outlook 2021, 2019, 2016, or 2013, this blog will guide you through four of the best solutions to achieve this, including the powerful Aryson OST to PST Converter. Each method offers a unique approach to meet different user needs, ensuring you can seamlessly export OST to PST in Outlook.

In this blog, we’ll explore manual techniques as well as a professional tool to help you convert your OST files into PST format. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to tackle this task efficiently, regardless of your Outlook version. Let’s dive into the solutions!

Why Convert OST to PST?

You might wonder why converting OST to PST is necessary. Here are some common reasons:

• Data Portability: PST files are portable and can be opened on any Outlook instance, unlike OST files tied to specific profiles.
• Recovery: Convert orphaned OST files to PST to recover data after a server crash or account deletion.
• Migration: Easily transfer mailbox data to a new system or Outlook version.
• Backup: Create a secure backup of your mailbox in PST format.

No matter your reason, these four solutions ensure you can convert OST to PST in Outlook 2021, 2019, 2016, and 2013 effectively.

Solution 1: Using Outlook’s Import/Export Wizard

One of the simplest ways to convert OST to PST in Outlook 2021, 2019, 2016, and 2013 is by using the built-in Import/Export Wizard. This method works well if your OST file is accessible and linked to a functioning Outlook profile. Here’s how you can export OST to PST in Outlook using this approach:

Steps to Export OST to PST Using Outlook:

1. Open Outlook: Launch Microsoft Outlook (2021, 2019, 2016, or 2013) on your computer.
2. Access the File Menu: Click on the "File" tab in the top-left corner.
3. Select Open & Export: Choose "Open & Export," then click "Import/Export."
4. Choose Export Option: In the Import and Export Wizard, select "Export to a file" and click "Next."
5. Select PST Format: Choose "Outlook Data File (.pst)" and hit "Next."
6. Pick Folders: Select the mailbox or specific folders you want to export. Check "Include subfolders" if needed.
7. Set Destination: Click "Browse" to choose where to save the PST file, name it, and click "Finish."
8. Optional Password: Add a password if desired, then click "OK."

Pros:

• Free and built into Outlook.
• Works across all versions (2021, 2019, 2016, 2013).
• Simple for basic conversions.

Cons:

• Requires a working Outlook profile and OST file.
• Won’t work with orphaned or corrupted OST files.

This method is ideal for users who need a quick way to export OST to PST in Outlook without third-party tools, provided their OST file is intact and accessible.

Solution 2: Using Outlook’s AutoArchive Feature

Another manual method to convert OST to PST in Outlook 2021, 2019, 2016, and 2013 is through the AutoArchive feature. This approach archives older items into a PST file, freeing up space while converting your data. Here’s how to export OST to PST in Outlook using AutoArchive:

Steps to Change OST to PST Using AutoArchive Option:

1. Launch Outlook: Open your Outlook application.
2. Go to File: Click "File" and then "Options."
3. Advanced Settings: Select "Advanced," then click "AutoArchive Settings."
4. Configure Archive: Set the archive frequency, choose a location for the PST file, and click "OK."
5. Manual Archive: Alternatively, go to "File" > "Tools" (or "Cleanup Tools" in older versions) > "Clean Up Old Items."
6. Select Folders: Choose the folders to archive, set a date range, and specify the PST file location.
7. Finish: Click "OK" to start the process.

Pros:

• Built-in and cost-free.
• Helps manage mailbox size while converting data.
• Compatible with Outlook 2021, 2019, 2016, and 2013.

Cons:

• Limited to archiving older items.
• Not suitable for corrupted or inaccessible OST files.

This method is great for users who want to export OST to PST in Outlook while maintaining a clean mailbox, though it’s not a full OST-to-PST conversion solution.

Solution 3: Drag-and-Drop Method

For a hands-on approach, the drag-and-drop method allows you to convert OST to PST in Outlook 2021, 2019, 2016, and 2013 by manually moving items. This method requires creating a new PST file and transferring data from the OST file. Here’s how to export OST to PST in Outlook with this technique:

Steps:

1. Open Outlook: Start Outlook on your system.
2. Create a New PST File: Go to "File" > "New Items" > "More Items" > "Outlook Data File." Name it and save it.
3. View PST File: The new PST file will appear in the left pane.
4. Select Items: Navigate to your OST file folders, select the emails or items you want to convert.
5. Drag and Drop: Drag these items into the new PST file’s folders.
6. Repeat: Continue for all desired data.

Pros:

• Free and straightforward.
• Gives you control over what to convert.
• Works in all Outlook versions.

Cons:

• Time-consuming for large mailboxes.
• Can’t handle corrupted OST files.

This method suits users who need to selectively export OST to PST in Outlook and don’t mind a bit of manual effort.

Solution 4: Aryson OST to PST Converter (Professional Tool)

When manual methods fall short—especially with corrupted, orphaned, or large OST files—the Aryson OST to PST Converter emerges as the best solution to convert OST to PST in Outlook 2021, 2019, 2016, and 2013. This professional tool simplifies the process and ensures data integrity. Here’s how to export OST to PST in Outlook using Aryson:

Steps to Perform OST to PST Conversion Using Aryson Software:

1. Download and Install: Get the Aryson OST to PST Converter from their official website and install it.
2. Launch the Tool: Open the software on your Windows PC.
3. Add OST File: Click "Add File" and browse to select your OST file.
4. Preview Data: The tool scans and displays all mailbox items (emails, contacts, calendars, etc.).
5. Select PST: Choose "PST" as the output format from the dropdown menu.
6. Set Destination: Pick a location to save the PST file.
7. Convert: Click "Convert" to start the process. Once done, import the PST into Outlook.

Pros:

• Handles corrupted, orphaned, or inaccessible OST files.
• Supports bulk conversion and selective export.
• Compatible with Outlook 2021, 2019, 2016, 2013, and earlier versions.
• No Outlook installation required for conversion.

Cons:

• Paid software (though a free demo is available for up to 50 items).

The Aryson OST to PST Converter is a game-changer for users needing a reliable, all-in-one solution to export OST to PST in Outlook, especially in complex scenarios.

 

Conclusion

Converting OST to PST in Outlook 2021, 2019, 2016, and 2013 doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Whether you opt for the manual Import/Export Wizard, AutoArchive, drag-and-drop method, or the professional Aryson OST to PST Converter, you have options tailored to your needs. For simple conversions with accessible OST files, manual methods work well and are free. However, for corrupted files or a seamless experience, Aryson’s tool stands out as the ultimate choice to export OST to PST in Outlook.

Choose the method that fits your situation best, and enjoy uninterrupted access to your Outlook data! Have you tried any of these solutions? Let us know your experience in the comments below!