Free methods to convert OST to PST

If you're looking for free methods to convert OST to PST, here are some reliable approaches:

1. Using Microsoft’s Native Methods (Free)

a. Recreate Outlook Profile & Export to PST

Since OST files are offline copies of Exchange mailbox data, you can reconnect to the Exchange server and export data to PST:

  1. Open Control Panel > Mail > Show Profiles.

  2. Add a new profile and set up your Exchange account.

  3. Once synchronized, open Outlook, go to File > Open & Export > Import/Export.

  4. Choose Export to a file > Outlook Data File (.pst).

  5. Select the folders and save as PST.

Limitation: Requires access to the original Exchange server.

b. Use Outlook’s Archive Feature

If you can open the OST in Outlook:

  1. Go to File > Info > Cleanup Tools > Archive.

  2. Select folders and choose PST as the destination.

2. Using Free Conversion Tools (Third-Party)

Some tools offer limited free conversions:

  • RecoveryFix OST to PST Converter (Free Trial)
    → Exports a few items per folder for free.

  • OST2 Converter (Free Demo)
    → Allows preview and partial export.

  • Frre OST to PST Converter (Free Trial)
    → Limited free conversion.

Note: Free versions usually have limitations (partial export, watermarking).

3. Manual Conversion via Thunderbird (Workaround)

If you can’t access Exchange:

  1. Install Thunderbird and ImportExportTools NG add-on.

  2. Import OST via mbox format (indirect method).

  3. Export emails to PST (limited success rate).

4. Using Kernel for OST to PST (Free Scan)

  • Scans and previews OST files for free.

Which Method Should You Choose?

  • If you have Exchange access, use Outlook’s export feature.

  • If OST is orphaned, try a free tool (with limitations).

  • For complete conversion, consider a paid tool if data is critical.

Would you like recommendations for a paid tool if free options don’t work?

  • To convert OST files to PST files, you can also attempt the free manual method. However, the manual approach is laborious and complex. The manual method is not suitable for all users. So, the best thing to do is to use the WholeClear OST to PST Converter Software. Without taking too much time, it converts OST files to PST files. You don't need MS Outlook to convert more than one OST file to a PST file. All versions of MS Outlook and Windows OS can use it. It converts all OST emails to PST files without losing any information. There is also a free version you can try and analyze the tool's features.

  • To convert an OST file to a PST file, you can also attempt the free manual method. However, this method is time-consuming and risks no data loss. Use the OSTtoPSTAPP OST to PST Converter. The method is suitable for all users. This software is suitable for converting OST files safely to PST format without any problem. Support different Outlook versions 2019, 2013, 2016, etc. Convert many thousands of OST files to PST format. One of the best and most effective solutions to export OST to PST is a simple feature that even non-technical users can utilize.

  • You can also convert OST files to PST files the manual way, which is free and takes time. But doing it by hand is hard and takes a long time.  This method can't be used by everyone. So, the best thing to do is to use the GainTools OST to PST Converter Software. Without taking too much time, it converts OST files to PST files. You don't need MS Outlook to convert more than one OST file to a PST file. All versions of MS Outlook and Windows OS can use it. It converts all OST emails to PST files without losing any information. There is also a free version you can try.

  • One excellent tool for exporting emails from OST files to PST is the BLR OST to PST Converter. The program can precisely backup OST files by exporting & backing up emails without attachments. You can convert the OST files within a given date range by using the Date Range Filter Option. Additionally, it can convert OST files into an array of other formats, including EML, PDF, MSG, DOC, MBOX, CSV, TXT, and more.  
     
    How to Convert an OST File to a PST File  
     
    Run the converter from OST to PST.  
    Enter the OST file or files that you wish to convert.  
    Choose the required directories & examine the files that have been selected.  
    From the available storage choices, select PST.  
    Click the Convert button after browsing the preferred destination.