One of the common questions that arises amongst the users is, “How to open an EML file in Outlook”? The answer is quite simple. Microsoft Outlook can help users read, view, and manage EML files from any email source, such as Thunderbird, Windows Mail, or other supported applications. There are effective ways to open EML files in Outlook without any complications or lost files. This guide will help walk you through it.

What Is an EML File and Why Is It Important?

EML is also commonly known as Email or electronic mail, an easy-to-use, structured file format designed for saving a single email message. The storage format for email messages is the .eml file. EML files can be used in both personal and professional settings, which can be useful for both parties, helping the users to control and manage their data more effectively.

EML files are important as they preserve the structure of an email, which is divided into different parts like headers, body content, and attachments. Known for its user-friendliness, it allows users to open, read, and share emails without the need for the original mailbox. This benefits keeping a copy of messages, delivering records for legal purposes, or when changing devices, moving emails to Outlook.

Learn to Open EML Files in Outlook Easily

Knowing the correct way to open EML files can help users use them more conveniently and effectively. Here are different methods users can choose to open their EML files in Outlook.

Method 1. Drag and Drop to Import EML Files

One of the standard methods to open an EML file is by the drag-and-drop method. One of the most compatible options for a smaller number of files, where the user doesn’t need any additional software to open EML files individually. 

• Open Microsoft Outlook on your system.

• Now, where you wish to import the emails, open the target folder.

• Search for and select where the .eml files are stored on your computer, and then import the required files.

• Lastly, drag and drop the chosen .elm files where you want them to appear directly into the Outlook folder.

Method 2. Using the Import/Export Option to Open EML Files

The Import/Export is another built-in feature to view EML files in Outlook. For transferring multiple files at once, users can use this method to automatically import and arrange them into the mailbox.

• Open Outlook, then go to the file tab, select open and export, and then choose import/export.

• Click on “Import Internet Mail and Addresses, if you’re using an earlier version of Outlook.

•  Now, to import the process, select one or multiple required .eml files.

• Continue with the wizard’s guided direction to successfully import and save your emails in Outlook.

Method 3. How do EML files work in the Latest Outlook?

For newer versions like Outlook 2016, 2019, 2021, and Microsoft 365, EML files can be opened directly in Outlook, which is considered an easy method.

• On your computer, search for the .eml files. 

• From the right-click button, select Open With and then choose Outlook from the list.

• As soon as you open it. Outlook will appear, displaying the messages immediately.

Method 4. Using Specialized Conversion Software to Open an EML File

It's important to keep the mailbox well-organized and secure it for long-term use. So by using a professional EML to PST converter tool will help users keep the files safe without any data loss. It also helps to back up and migrate the files while switching from one system to another or even upgrading to the new Outlook versions.

SysTools EML to PST Converter is one of the most effective tools that allows users to convert EML files to PST format effortlessly. Once converted, users can import the PST file into Outlook. Just like your regular Outlook account, it allows users to open, search, and manage all their emails in a single mailbox.

Author’s Suggestion- If the user wants to open EML files without Outlook, then the user can use SysTools EML Viewer Tool to view and read EML files with attachments. It's an easy-to-use tool that's free of cost. 

Common Problems with Opening EML Files in Outlook

• Older versions of Outlook don’t usually support EML files, which leads to requiring a manual import or third-party tools.

• Restrict users from opening multiple EML files at once and only allow them to open one at a time, which also leads to time consumption.

•  There's also a risk of data loss if done by manual methods.

• While importing files, it may fail to maintain the original EML file hierarchy in Outlook.

Summary

Let’s conclude by saying that opening an EML file in Outlook provides a trustworthy and secure way to manage and view all your email messages on one platform. Users can use it for multiple purposes, whether they want to open it directly or convert it into a PST format. With Outlook, users can experience smooth and hassle-free support. It can be used both personally and professionally. Though there are some limitations, if the user has a converter tool, then it will help to organize and manage across multiple accounts without any data loss.