How to Export Gmail to MBOX with Folders – 2025 Method
Exporting your emails to an MBOX file is a fantastic choice if you use Gmail and wish to make a backup of them. Email messages are frequently stored in MBOX files, which are compatible with a wide range of email applications, including Thunderbird, Apple Mail, and others. . In this blog post, we will explain how to export your Gmail emails to an MBOX file. Whether you want to switch email clients, create a backup, or just want offline access, these instructions will make it easy to follow. Can I download all of my Gmail emails in MBOX format and then serve them locally? By’serve locally,’ I mean that I can search and peruse previous emails on my computer without requiring web access. Technically, is this feasible? Do these MBOX Gmail data also qualify as acceptable evidence in court? Since even a basic email printout appears to be fine, wouldn’t a local MBOX archive also be allowed?
The quick answer is that you can download all of your Gmail emails in MBOX format using Google Takeout.. You can access and search your emails offline after downloading software like WLM, MS Outlook or Thunderbird. This configuration is effective for local access and archiving. MBOX files can be regarded as legitimate digital records for legal purposes. Nonetheless, it is best to make sure that email headers are preserved and to add metadata or a chain-of-custody record for court admissibility. In legal situations, a well-preserved MBOX file and confirmed export protocols are frequently utilized as supporting documentation.
MBOX files can be exported from a Gmail account in two simple ways.
The method of exporting Gmail emails to an MBOX file is simple and is mostly accomplished with Google Takeout. A detailed tutorial is provided below, along with other options if you would rather use third-party software.
Manual Approach: Making Use of Google Takeout
This is Google’s official and cost-free way. It allows you to export particular labels or your whole Gmail mailbox as MBOX files.
Step 1: visit Google Takeout.
Go to https://takeout.google.com in your browser.
Make sure the Gmail account you wish to export is logged in.
Step 2: Choose Gmail.
You can find a list of Google services on the Takeout page.
First, click “Deselect all.”
Scroll down to the “Mail” box and check it.
(Selective) To pick particular labels or folders, click the “All Mail data included” button.
Step 3: Select Export Preferences
After scrolling down, select “Next step.”
Select your preferred mode of delivery (email, Dropbox, Drive, etc.) under “Delivery method.”
Set the file format to.zip and choose the export frequency (usually “Export once” is fine).
Decide on a file size limit, such as 2GB or 4GB. Your mailbox will be divided into several files if it is larger.
Step 4: Produce an Export
On “Create export,” click.
Google will begin getting your data ready. This could take minutes or even hours, depending on the volume of emails you have.
Step 5: Download the MBOX file
A download link will be sent to you via email as soon as the export is ready.
Download the.zip file by clicking the link.
After you extract them, the file retains your Gmail emails.
Automated Approach: Making Use of a Third-Party Tool
The Mailvita Gmail Backup Tool for Mac is a dependable and expert way to export Gmail emails to MBOX format. You can safely back up your whole Gmail inbox, including emails, attachments, and other mailbox contents, to MBOX format with this easy-to-use software without losing any data. After logging in, you can quickly select the mailbox items you want to export, select the MBOX file type from the list of saving options, and start the backup procedure with your Gmail credentials. Advanced capabilities like folder selection and date-range filtering are also included in the application, which makes it effective and adaptable for both personal and business use.
The easy ways to export Gmail emails to MBOX are as follows:
- After installing the Mailvita Gmail Backup Tool for Mac, install it on your PC.
- Open the Tool and enter your Gmail login information.
- If two-step verification is enabled, use an app password.
- Select the mailbox items (inbox, sent, drafts, etc.) that you wish to back up.
- From the list of options, choose MBOX as the saving format.
- Depending on your needs, apply filters like date range or skip previously backed-up information.
- To save the MBOX file to your computer, select the Destination Path.
- To start the export process, click the Next button.
Remarks and Advice
The MBOX file that was exported from Gmail can be imported into email software like Apple Mail and Mozilla Thunderbird.
Outlook does not accept MBOX directly, so if you wish to import an MBOX file into Outlook, you will need to convert it to PST format.
Google can partition your data into many MBOX files and the export procedure can take longer for very large mailboxes.
Conclusion
One clever method for transferring your Gmail emails to another email client or creating a backup is to export them to MBOX format. The MBOX file format makes it simple to retain your emails securely, whether you’re switching platforms or not. You can finish the process without any problems if you follow the instructions in this guide. Don’t forget to store your exported file in a safe location for later use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it free to export Gmail emails to MBOX?
Yes, you can export your Gmail emails in MBOX format using Google Takeout, a free application from Google.
How can I use Google Takeout to export Gmail to MBOX?
To download your emails, go to takeout.google.com, select Mail, pick your selections, and then follow the instructions. The file that is downloaded will be in MBOX format.
Can I use my PC to open an MBOX file directly?
Not right away. To access and browse MBOX files, you’ll need an email application such as Apple Mail or Mozilla Thunderbird.
Will the MBOX file contain attachments as well?
Yes, your email attachments are included when you export Gmail to MBOX.
Is using Google Takeout to export my Gmail data safe?
Google Takeout is a legitimate and safe Google feature, yes. Just be careful where you store your MBOX file.
What is the duration required to export Gmail to MBOX?
The size of your mailbox determines this. It can take many hours for huge accounts. Google will email you when your download is complete.
If the MBOX file is too big, what should I do?
Google Takeout divides enormous files into smaller ones, such as 2GB apiece. Each component can be downloaded and opened independently.