If you’re transitioning to the new version of Outlook 365, you might wonder whether you can still import PST files – one of the most common ways to transfer emails, contacts, and other data from previous Outlook versions or other email platforms. While it is possible to import PST files into the new Outlook 365, the process isn’t as straightforward as it used to be in the classic Outlook.
Since Importing PST files to MS Outlook has always been a thing so when this new Outlook does not offer any direct solution to import the PST to new Outlook, it becomes a fury among the Outlook users. This is not only inconvenient for them but also hamper the overall work productivity. Since not everyone is technical enough to understand the underlying causes or reasons, they only want to know how to open PST in New Outlook.
While it’s anticipated that the New Outlook is still in development and these missing features or issues will be addressed in future updates, there’s no guarantee of when or how that will happen. As a result, it’s a good idea to adapt to the current version and familiarize yourself with its new layout and functionalities to keep your workflow smooth. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through various methods for importing PST files into the New Outlook, as well as the potential challenges you may face during the process and how to overcome them.
How to Import and Open a PST Files in New Outlook 365? Methods and Methodology
As we know there is no direct way out to import the PST in new Outlook, we have figured out certain alternatives and tricks to get this job done without much hassle.
1. Using the Import/Export Wizard (Classic Outlook)
In classic versions of Outlook, you can easily import a PST file using the built-in Import/Export Wizard. Here’s how it worked in the classic version:
- Open Outlook and click on File.
- Select Open & Export, then choose Import/Export.
- Select Import from another program or file and click Next.
- Choose Outlook Data File (.pst) and select the PST file you wish to import.
Unfortunately, this familiar tool is missing from the new Outlook 365, which brings us to alternative methods.
2. Switch to Classic Outlook for Importing PST
If you’re using the new Outlook and can’t find the Import/Export Wizard, one option is to switch back to the classic version temporarily. Here’s how you can do it:
- In the new Outlook interface, go to the settings menu.
- Look for an option labeled Switch to Classic Outlook and select it.
- Once you’re back in the classic Outlook, follow the steps mentioned in the previous method to import your PST file.
This method allows you to use all the traditional PST import features before switching back to the new Outlook.
3. Drag and Drop Method
For those looking for a quicker alternative, the drag-and-drop method can be useful. It involves manually moving emails from the PST file into Outlook folders.
- First, open the PST file in Outlook.
- Simply drag emails or folders from the PST file and drop them into the appropriate mailbox folder in your Outlook 365.
While this method works well for small amounts of data, it’s not ideal for large PST files as it requires manual effort and doesn’t transfer non-email data like contacts or calendar events.
4. Using Outlook Import Tool
For users who deal with large PST files or want an easier way to import their data, third-party PST import tools are available. These tools often come with advanced features such as batch importing, selective folder import, and the ability to preserve folder structures.
While third-party tools may simplify the process, they usually come with a cost, so they are better suited for advanced users or businesses dealing with multiple PST files.
Challenges of Importing PST Files in New Outlook 365 – Reasons and Restrictions
The new Outlook 365 has a more streamlined, modern design and integrates well with cloud services. However, it comes with some limitations when compared with the classic Outlook. Whether you are importing PST files or exporting Outlook emails in .eml format, there are many such restrictions, particularly for users accustomed to the classic version.
a. Limited Import/Export Features
One of the biggest hurdles is the removal of the traditional Import/Export Wizard from the new Outlook interface. This wizard was a go-to solution for importing PST files, and its absence means users have to resort to more complex workarounds, like switching back to classic Outlook.
b. Cloud-Centric Focus
The new Outlook 365 is heavily cloud-centric, pushing users toward cloud storage solutions such as OneDrive and SharePoint. This focus on cloud-based storage may make it less intuitive for users who are familiar with the desktop-based PST files in the classic Outlook.
For users who are still attached to PST files, this shift toward cloud storage creates a learning curve. Additionally, working with large PST files in a cloud environment can be slower and less efficient, particularly if internet connectivity is an issue.
c. Limited Public Folder Support
Another challenge is that the new Outlook 365 provides limited support for public folders, which are commonly used to store PST files for shared access in business environments. Users who rely heavily on public folders in their workflow may need to continue using the classic version of Outlook, as the new version doesn’t fully support all public folder features, and you may lose Personal Folders when Switching to New Outlook.
d. Compatibility Issues
While you can import a PST file into the new Outlook, there might be compatibility issues with older PST files created in very old versions of Outlook. You may need to first convert the PST file into a compatible format using an older version of Outlook or a third-party tool like OST to PST converter.
e. Manual Effort for Calendar and Contacts
Unlike emails, calendar entries and contacts do not always import smoothly using the drag-and-drop method. Users may find themselves manually importing these items or using additional tools, which can be time-consuming and prone to error.
Conclusion
While importing PST files is possible, there are significant changes and challenges in the new Outlook 365 compared to the classic version. By using alternative methods like the drag-and-drop feature or switching back to the classic interface, you can still import your data. However, with the cloud-centric focus of the new Outlook and its limited public folder support, users may face challenges when working with PST files, especially for large data sets or older PST formats.
If you heavily rely on PST files for managing your emails, it might be beneficial to stay on the classic version of Outlook or consider transitioning to cloud-based solutions like OneDrive, which integrates more seamlessly with Outlook 365.
