How to Convert PST to Maildir Format?

Jackson Strong | March 7th, 2025 | Data Conversion

In this guide, we will explore the best methods to convert PST to Maildir, including manual and automated solutions. If you have the same query, do check out this blog now.

Microsoft Outlook stores emails in PST (Personal Storage Table) format, which is widely used for managing emails, contacts, and calendars. However, many email servers and Linux-based mail systems use the Maildir format, which stores emails as individual files in directories. Since Outlook does not support Maildir, users need a way to convert PST to Maildir for compatibility with mail servers like Postfix, Dovecot, and Qmail.

How to Export Emails from PST to Maildir for Free?

Since Outlook does not support Maildir, you can use Thunderbird as an intermediary by configuring an IMAP account and exporting emails.

  1. Open Microsoft Outlook and go to File > Open & Export > Open Outlook Data File.
  2. Select your PST file and load it into Outlook.
  3. Sign up for a free IMAP email account (such as Gmail).
  4. In Outlook, go to File > Add Account, enter IMAP settings, and sync your emails.
  5. Drag and drop PST emails into the IMAP account folders.
  6. Wait for the sync to complete.
  7. Open Mozilla Thunderbird and add the same IMAP email account.
  8. Allow Thunderbird to sync all emails.
  9. Go to Thunderbird Settings > Account Settings.
  10. Under Server Settings, change the message storage format to Maildir.
  11. Restart Thunderbird and allow it to re-sync emails in Maildir format.

Your PST emails are now stored in Maildir format on your system.

How to Convert PST to Maildir File Format Automatically?

If you want to migrate emails from .pst into Maildir supported client, you need to download and install the Advik Outlook PST Converter. This tool quickly exports PST emails to Maildir without manual effort. It keeps email formatting, attachments, and folder structure intact. You can convert multiple PST files at once with fast and secure processing. The simple interface makes it easy for anyone to use. It works with all Outlook versions, including 2019, 2016, and 2013. Just add your PST file, choose Maildir, and start the conversion in a few clicks.

Now, download PST to Maildir Converter solution demo version and try it for free.

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Steps Export PST to Maildir Without Outlook

Step 1. Run the software and add Outlook PST files or folders.

outlook to maildir

Step 2. Select the desired folder that you want to convert.

pst emails to maildir format

Step 3. From the multiple saving options select “Maildir”.

outlook pst file to maildir

Step 4. Click the Convert button and analyze the conversion process.

outlook emails to maildir

All Done, After these steps, you can import the Maildir file into any email client that supports Maildir Format.

Features of  the Best PST to Maildir Converter

This software is loaded with many features. Some of them are as follows;

  • Easy-to-use interface with self-explanatory features
  • No Ads or Spyware
  • Export Outlook PST file in 20+ file formats
  • Extract Contacts from PST file Without any Error
  • Migrate PST emails into Cloud-based email services
  • Extract attachments from PST file
  • Supports almost all versions of Windows OS
  • Simple steps for both beginners and professionals.
  • Preserve Metadata and Key features of Emails
  • Keep the Folder Hierarchy of emails intact.
  • Free Demo Version to Check the Efficiency
  • Works with Outlook 2021, 2019, 2016, 2013, and earlier versions.

Final Words

In this blog, we have discussed the easiest way to convert PST to Maildir Format. With this tool, users can easily transfer emails from Outlook to Maildir-supported email clients. If you are still having trouble exporting emails from Outlook PST to Maildir format, please feel free to chat or contact us at support@adviksoft.com.

FAQs

Q1. Can I convert multiple PST files to Maildir at once?

Ans. Yes, this tool supports batch conversion, allowing you to export multiple PST files to Maildir in one go.

Q2. Will the tool keep my email folders and attachments?

Ans. Yes, it preserves the folder structure, attachments, and email formatting during the conversion process.

Q3. Do I need Outlook installed to convert PST to Maildir?

Ans. No, the tool works without Outlook and can directly convert PST files to Maildir format.