How to Batch Import PST Files to Windows Live Mail At Once? –  A Game-Changing Guide

Sarabjeet Kaur | outlook pst software technology windows live mail | 6 minutes read | Modified on: 30-05-2025
how to batch import pst files to windows live mail

Summary– Wondering how to batch import PST files to Windows Live Mail! In the segment, we’ll be exploring easy techniques to import Outlook emails to WLM. We’ll also go through the benefits of importing emails from PST to Windows Live Mail. Let’s dive in and get started!

Overview – PST File & Windows Live Mail 

Personal Storage Table (PST) file is a proprietary data file format used by Microsoft Outlook to store a user’s mailbox data such as emails, contacts, calendars, tasks, and notes. PST files are typically used for backing up or archiving Outlook data and are commonly found in POP3 and standalone Outlook accounts. These files can be opened and managed only within Microsoft Outlook on Windows and are widely used in both personal and business environments for local email storage.

Windows Live Mail (WLM) is a discontinued desktop email client developed by Microsoft as part of the Windows Essentials suite. It was designed as the successor to Outlook Express and offered users the ability to manage multiple email accounts, including POP3, IMAP, and Microsoft Exchange accounts. The application stored emails in a format different from Outlook (typically using EML files), and although it is no longer supported by Microsoft, many users still have legacy data stored in it that they may want to migrate to more modern platforms like Outlook or webmail services.

Benefits of Importing Emails from Outlook to Windows Live Mail

There are several reasons why users may decide to transfer their emails from Microsoft Outlook to Windows Live Mail. This can stem from personal preferences, technical requirements, or a shift to a more lightweight or user-friendly email platform. Some notable advantages of importing emails into Windows Live Mail include:

  • Windows Live Mail offers a simpler and more intuitive interface, making it ideal for non-technical users who prefer a straightforward email experience.
  • It consumes fewer system resources compared to Outlook, which can lead to faster performance on older or less powerful machines.
  • Once emails are imported, they can be accessed offline, providing users the flexibility to read and manage emails without an active internet connection.
  • Windows Live Mail is part of the Windows Essentials suite, which integrates easily with other Microsoft services like OneDrive and Windows Photo Gallery.
  • Importing Outlook emails into Windows Live Mail provides an additional backup of important data, reducing the risk of data loss.
  • Windows Live Mail is a free desktop email client, making it a cost-effective alternative for personal users not wanting to invest in Microsoft Outlook licenses.

Multiple Approaches to Import PST Files to Windows Live Mail

There are different ways to import PST to Windows Live Mail –

  1. Manual Procedure
  2. Automated Process

Manually Import PST to Windows Live Mail

While there are no direct options to import PST files into Windows Live Mail, two manual ways can help you complete the transfer. Both come with certain restrictions and prerequisites. Below are the detailed steps:

#Way 1: Transfer PST Data via Outlook Integration

  1. Launch Microsoft Outlook and ensure your PST file is properly loaded using the Import/Export function.
  2. Open Windows Live Mail and navigate to the Accounts section under Tools to add the same email account used in Outlook.
  3. In WLM, go to File > Import Messages > select Outlook, and then hit Next to proceed.
  4. Once both accounts are synchronized, messages from the PST file can be viewed in WLM. Alternatively, you can drag & drop emails between folders after syncing.

Important Note: This only works if the same email address is active in both applications and the account is set up using either IMAP or POP3.

#Way 2: Use Thunderbird as a Bridge

This process involves an intermediate step of converting PST emails to EML format using Thunderbird, which are then imported into Windows Live Mail.

  • Start Thunderbird and configure it to access your MS Outlook account.
  • Click the More menu and choose the Import option.
  • In the prompt that appears, choose to import from Outlook and continue.
  • Select the specific items from the PST file and initiate the import process.
  • Once completed, close and restart Thunderbird to verify the import.
  • Pick all imported messages (Ctrl + A), right-click, and take Save As.
  • Set the file format to EML and pick a destination folder to save the files.
  • Next, open Windows Live Mail and go to the Import Messages option.
  • Choose Windows Live Mail, click Next, then Browse to the folder containing your EML files.
  • Finalize the process by clicking Next and then Finish to load the emails.

Disadvantages of Using Free Manual Method

  • These processes can be lengthy and complex, especially for users with limited technical knowledge.
  • Repeating the steps for multiple PST files can be exhausting and inefficient.
  • You need to install and manage more than one email client.
  • There is a risk of incomplete transfers or data loss due to lack of built-in safeguards.
  • Reliable internet access is often required for syncing and account setup.

Due to these drawbacks, manual methods are often unreliable for larger or important data transfers. As a more effective alternative, using a trustworthy PST to Windows Live Mail Converter Tool is usually recommended.

Use a Trusted PST to WLM Converter to Batch Import PST Files to Windows Live Mail

If you’re planning to switch from PST to Windows Mail, the most effective way to handle the migration is by using a reliable BitData Migration PST Converter. This specialized tool is designed to simplify the process and ensure complete, error-free data conversion. The software comes with a free demo edition that enables users to convert up to 25 emails, calendar, contacts, and other items from each selected PST folder into the Windows Mail. It’s an excellent option for anyone who wants to test the tool’s features before making a purchase.

Why Choose This Solution?

This Outlook to Windows Live Mail Converter is widely trusted by users around the globe for its ability to maintain data integrity throughout the migration. All your email formatting, metadata, attachments, and folder hierarchy are preserved throughout the import procedure. It’s a smooth and dependable way to export Outlook data into Windows Live Mail without the risks associated with manual methods.

If you’re looking for a dependable, user-friendly, and precise solution, this tool is a solid choice to complete your Outlook to WLM migration with confidence. It also delivers 100% secure and accurate conversion results.

Steps to Import Multiple Outlook PST Emails into WLM Account

  1. Start by downloading the PST to Windows Mail Converter on your Windows system and complete the installation.
  2. Open the software and click on the Select Files or Select Folder option to load the PST files you want to convert.
  3. After adding the Outlook PST Files or Folder, the tool will scan and display all data including calendars, emails, contacts, notes, etc. You can preview email content before conversion.
  4. Choose the specific folders or emails you want to export. The tool allows selective conversion to avoid unnecessary data migration.
  5. From the list of available output formats, select Windows Live Mail.
  6. Click Browse to choose a location on your system where you want the converted files to be saved.
  7. Use advanced filters like Date Range, To/From/Subject filters, or exclude folders if needed.
  8. Hit the Convert button to start Outlook PST to WLM migration process.

Try Before You Buy

The tool also comes with a free trial version, giving users the chance to understand the full process without any commitment. You can transfer up to 25 PST files to Windows Mail for free, making it easy to test the software’s capabilities first-hand.

Final Thoughts

Importing from one email platform to another like moving Outlook PST files to Windows Live Mail requires attention to ensure no data is lost along the way. This guide explores the key reasons for making the switch and outlines three possible methods to carry out the export process.

While manual options exist, they often fall short in terms of reliability and ease of use. For a smooth and secure migration, using a trusted third-party tool is strongly recommended. It not only simplifies the process but also guarantees data integrity throughout the transfer.