# How to Convert OST to PST File? Best Ways to [2023]

![How to Convert OST to PST File Best Ways to [2023]](https://hackmd.io/_uploads/ByHXvRqwT.png)

**Summary:** The blog describes the OST and PST files and the professional technique for converting OST files to PST with and without Outlook. It also explains converting OST files to Outlook PST files using the professional tool MacSonik [OST to PST Converter](https://www.macsonik.com/ost-pst-converter/).

## What is the difference between OST and PST files?

An OST (Offline Storage Table) file serves as an offline Outlook Data File essential for Microsoft Exchange Server users. This file type enables seamless interaction with mail data even when the mail server is unavailable. Essentially, the Outlook OST file empowers users by providing the option to retain a local copy of all mail data on their computer. Consequently, these items synchronize automatically with folders once access to the mail server is reestablished. This functionality ensures continuity and accessibility to crucial data, regardless of server availability.

A PST (Personal Storage Table) file functions as a crucial Microsoft Outlook Data File, dedicated to storing a user's Outlook data for POP3, IMAP, and web-based mail accounts. These files encompass a comprehensive collection of items within folders, comprising emails, email attachments, events, journals, contacts, and more. Notably, Outlook PST files remain compatible across all iterations of MS Outlook. In earlier Outlook versions, these files were stored in the ANSI format, whereas subsequent versions (starting from Outlook 2003) save PST files in Unicode format. This transition to Unicode ensures enhanced capabilities and accommodates evolving user needs within Outlook.

## Why Do I Need to Convert OST to PST in Outlook?

Exploring the reasons prompting users to convert OST to PST file format:
· Exchange Server Crashes: Unexpected crashes and errors in the Exchange Server often render mail data inaccessible, necessitating the conversion.
· Server Downtime and Maintenance: During server maintenance or downtime, importing OST files to Outlook allows continued access to crucial data.
· Mail Data Recovery: This conversion process facilitates the recovery of all mail data from the Exchange Server.

## Professional Method to Export OST to PST on Mac Machine

Converting OST file emails to PST on Mac lacks a direct or manual method. To accomplish this, leveraging a professional tool becomes imperative. Enter the OST to PST Converter for Mac—an efficient solution tailored for seamlessly turning OST files into PST format. This user-friendly tool ensures a swift conversion process that can be executed within seconds, providing ease and efficiency in exporting all OST file emails to PST effortlessly.

### Steps to Convert OST to PST Format on Mac

1. Begin by downloading and launching the [MacSonik OST to PST Converter](https://www.macsonik.com/ost-pst-converter/) on your Mac device.
2. Use the 'Browse' button to add single or multiple OST files for conversion into PST format.
3. Once the OST file is added, all its contained emails will be displayed on the tool's left-hand side for your review.
4. Select the specific emails from the OST file that you intend to convert into PST, and then proceed by clicking on the 'Next' button.
5. Opt for the PST format by choosing the PST option from the 'Save As' box.
6. Customize your conversion process by applying date range filters if necessary to streamline the emails.
7. Define the destination path for the resulting PST File in the designated 'Path to Save' box.
8. To initiate the conversion process, click on the 'Convert' button, and your OST file will swiftly transform into PST on your Mac device.

[Converting OST files to PST](https://www.macsonik.com/blog/convert-ost-file-pst-on-mac/) without Outlook on Mac follows these steps, representing the most feasible approach. The simplicity of the process makes it accessible for anyone to convert and share the resulting PST file. Moreover, beyond PST, this method facilitates conversion to various formats like PDF, MBOX, EML, CSV, among others. This versatility grants Mac users accessibility to OST files in diverse formats, enhancing usability and convenience.

#### Conclusion

Now equipped with the knowledge of converting OST files to PST on Mac, the process allows for a free conversion of a limited number of emails through the tool's demo version, ideal for a small volume of emails. However, for larger quantities—such as thousands of OST file emails—a seamless and hassle-free conversion is ensured by investing in the full version of the tool. The full version facilitates effortless conversions, meeting the demands of larger-scale OST to PST transformations, ensuring efficiency and convenience.