If you use Microsoft Outlook, you’re likely familiar with the two key file formats it uses—OST (Offline Storage Table) and PST (Personal Storage Table). The OST file stores mailbox data locally when working offline, while PST is used to store data that can be ported and imported across different Outlook profiles or systems.
However, certain situations—like Exchange Server downtime, profile corruption, accidental deletion of a mailbox, or moving Outlook data to a new system—may require converting OST files to PST format. Since Outlook doesn’t provide a direct way to do this, users rely on third-party OST to PST Converter tools for accurate and efficient conversion.
Here are the top 3 OST to PST converter software tools, trusted by professionals and individual users alike:
1. Stellar Converter for OST
Stellar Converter for OST is a high-performance tool designed to convert large and encrypted OST files into PST and various other formats. It ensures zero data loss and maintains the folder hierarchy, while offering options to preview mailbox content before saving.
Key Features:
- Converts corrupt or encrypted OST files.
- Supports export to PST, EML, MSG, HTML, PDF, RTF, DBX, MBOX.
- Option to compact or split PST files after conversion.
- Export Outlook contacts to CSV.
- Preview mailbox content before saving.
- Compatible with all Outlook versions.
Performance Insights:
- Speed: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Fast processing, even for large OSTs.
- Ease of Use: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Clean UI with advanced features.
- Reliability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Highly trusted for complex recoveries.
Limitations:
- Only one OST file can be converted per session in the standard version.
- Exporting directly to Office 365 or Live Exchange requires the Technician edition.
2. SysTools OST to PST Converter
SysTools OST to PST offers a comprehensive OST conversion utility that excels in recovering and converting even corrupt or inaccessible OST files. Its DIY-friendly design makes it popular among individual users.
Key Features:
- Converts OST to PST, EML, MSG, HTML, PDF.
- Supports recovery of deleted and corrupted OST content.
- Converts complete mailbox items—emails, calendars, tasks, journals, contacts.
- Offers split PST option for oversized files.
- Preview items before exporting.
Performance Insights:
- Speed: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Smooth performance with large OSTs.
- Ease of Use: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Extremely easy, even for non-technical users.
- Reliability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Trusted by IT professionals and businesses.
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3. Shoviv OST to PST Converter
Shoviv OST to PST Converter is another reliable tool known for its multi-format migration capabilities and intuitive interface. It supports not just PST export, but also conversion to platforms like Gmail, Yahoo, and Office 365.
Key Features:
- Batch conversion of multiple OST files.
- Converts OST to PST, MBOX (Mac Mail), EML, MSG, and HTML.
- Migrates OST content to Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, Office 365, and Live Exchange.
- Maintains data hierarchy and integrity throughout.
- Integrated preview panel.
Performance Insights:
- Speed: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Handles multiple files efficiently.
- Ease of Use: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Great for beginners and IT teams.
- Reliability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Stable conversion with flexible migration options.
📊 Comparison Table: Top OST to PST Converter Tools
| Feature | Stellar Converter | Shoviv Converter | SysTools Converter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Converts Encrypted OST | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Supports Corrupt OST | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Converts to PST, EML, MSG | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Converts to PDF, HTML, RTF | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Export to Office 365 / Live Exchange | 🔒 Paid (Tech version) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Compact / Split PST | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Email Preview | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Multi-File Batch Conversion | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| User-Friendly Interface | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
✅ Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
| Use Case | Recommended Tool |
|---|---|
| Best Overall Recovery + Format Flexibility | Stellar Converter |
| Best for Migrating to Email Services (Gmail, O365) | Shoviv Converter |
| Best for Simplicity + Corruption Recovery | SysTools Converter |
🧾 Conclusion
Converting OST to PST is no longer a complex task if you have the right software. All three tools—Stellar, Shoviv, and SysTools—offer secure, accurate, and user-friendly conversion options suited for different user needs.
- Stellar Converter for OST is perfect for deep recovery and format variety.
- Shoviv Converter for OST to PST is excellent for batch processing and cloud-based email migration.
- SysTools Converter for OST is ideal for users seeking an easy-to-use and budget-friendly solution for converting even corrupted OST files.
🔁 Pro Tip: Always test the free/trial version first to ensure it meets your system and conversion requirements before buying.