EML and MSG are the most common file formats that email clients use. Both are used to store emails and can be opened and viewed in Outlook. This post explores their differences.
What Is the EML File Format?
EML is a plain text file with all of the message data, including the body, attachments, and header information. Outlook, Thunderbird, and Apple Mail are just a few email clients that use the EML file format.
What Is the MSG File Format?
MSG is a file format specific to Microsoft Outlook. It contains the same data as an EML file but includes additional information, such as the sender’s name, recipient’s name, and message subject.
What Are the Differences between EML and MSG?
EML files are typically smaller in size than MSG ones, making them easier to send and store. If you need to import an EML file to Outlook, you can use the built-in import function in Outlook or a third-party tool. However, if you need to import multiple files, it can be time-consuming to do so individually.
MSG files are usually bigger, but Outlook can use them in more ways and more flexibly. For example, MSG files can include custom fields, voting buttons, and follow-up flags, which can be useful for managing emails in a business setting.
Benefits of the MSG Format
These files offer several benefits compared with EML files. They are larger, meaning you can store more data in each file. This feature makes MSG helpful for businesses that need to store or send emails with large attachments.
MSG files also have extra information like the sender’s name and message subject, which can help you find emails quickly. Lastly, they support extra features in Outlook that EML files don’t, such as custom fields, voting buttons, and follow-up flags.
Benefits of the EML Format
EML files offer a few key advantages over MSG. First, they are smaller in size, making them easier to send and store. Second, you don’t have to worry about compatibility issues because they can be opened by any email client that supports the format.
Finally, many third-party tools exist to import multiple EML files to Outlook, making migrating email data from one account to another much faster and easier.
Importing EML and MSG Files to Outlook
You have a few options if you want to bring EML or MSG files into Outlook. You can use the built-in import function or a third-party tool. With the built-in import function, you can import a single file at a time or multiple files by selecting a folder that contains the files. If you choose to use a third-party tool, ensure it is compatible with your version of Outlook and supports EML file imports.
For MSG files, the process of importing to Outlook is much simpler, as they are specifically designed for use with the platform. To import an MSG file, follow these steps.
- Open Outlook.
- Drag and drop the file into your inbox or the folder where you want it stored.
- Outlook will automatically make a new message using the information from the MSG file, including the message body, any attachment, and other information.
Which Format Should You Use?
It can be hard to decide on the right format for storing and sending email data. EML files can be opened in more email clients, while MSG files can be opened in Outlook and have more features. The choice between EML and MSG depends largely on your needs and preferences.
If you use multiple email clients or want to keep your email files in a format that is widely supported, EML is a good choice. On the other hand, MSG might be a better choice if you only use Outlook or want to use its more advanced features.
Whatever format you choose, make sure you have a plan to backup email files to prevent data loss.
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