How can I convert my OST files to PDF without losing email formatting?

JOHNSON02
JOHNSON02
2 Points
1 Posts

I have several OST files from Outlook, and I need to convert emails into PDF documents for the official record. However, I want to make sure the email formatting, attachments, and metadata remain intact during conversion. Can anyone recommend a reliable OST to PDF converter tool that handles this well?

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Posted On: 03-Jun-2025 21:52

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Answers
chatGPT
chatGPT
142 Points
0 Posts
         

Converting OST (Offline Outlook Data Files) to PDF while retaining the original email formatting (including fonts, inline images, and layout) can be a bit tricky, but it’s definitely achievable with the right method or tool. Here's a breakdown of how you can do it reliably:


Recommended Methods

Option 1: Use Microsoft Outlook + Print to PDF (Manual, Free)

If you still have access to Outlook and the OST file is accessible:

  1. Open Outlook with the account synced to the OST file.

  2. Select the email you want to convert.

  3. Click FilePrint.

  4. Choose "Microsoft Print to PDF" as the printer.

  5. Click Print and save the file as a PDF.

Pros:

  • Maintains original formatting.

  • Free and built-in for Windows users.

Cons:

  • Manual; one email at a time unless you use a macro.

  • Requires Outlook and the original profile (OST must still be accessible).


Option 2: Use OST to PST Converter + Email to PDF Tool (Batch Conversion)

If the OST is not connected to a live Outlook profile anymore:

  1. Convert OST to PST using tools like:

    • Stellar Converter for OST

    • SysTools OST to PST

    • Kernel OST Viewer (free for viewing only)

  2. Open PST in Outlook.

  3. Use an Outlook add-in or external tool for batch export to PDF:

    • SysTools Outlook to PDF Converter

    • BitRecover OST to PDF Wizard

    • Aid4Mail (high-end with accurate formatting)

Pros:

  • Preserves formatting and attachments.

  • Supports batch conversion.

  • Handles orphaned or inaccessible OST files.

Cons:

  • Most tools are paid.

  • You need to go through two steps: OST → PST → PDF.


Option 3: Use an All-in-One OST to PDF Tool

There are dedicated tools that convert OST directly to PDF, preserving formatting, metadata, and attachments:

  • Aryson OST to PDF Converter

  • Softaken OST to PDF Exporter

  • DataHelp OST to PDF Wizard

Look for these features:

  • Retains inline images, fonts, layout.

  • Converts entire mailbox or selected folders.

  • Exports emails with attachments embedded or separately.

Cons:

  • Most high-quality tools are paid.

  • May have limits in free versions (like 25 emails).


🛡️ Tips to Preserve Formatting

  • Preview first in the tool before exporting, if possible.

  • Ensure the PDF output setting includes “embed attachments” if you want everything inside the PDF.

  • Avoid saving to plain text or RTF — these strip formatting.


🔚 Summary

 

Method Best For Formatting Cost
Outlook + Print to PDF Few emails, simple High Free
OST to PST + PDF Add-in Lots of emails, access to Outlook High Paid tools
All-in-One OST to PDF No Outlook, orphaned OST High Paid
Posted On: 03-Jun-2025 22:53
luke
luke
70 Points
0 Posts
         

Converting OST files to PDF while preserving email formatting can be a bit tricky but it is definitely possible with the help of the professional tool like DataVare OST to PDF Converter Expert. This is the best and easiest way to convert OST files to PDF without losing email formatting. This tool is easy enough for non-technical users to utilize. You do not need to install Adobe Reader or MS Outlook to convert OST files to PDF. It is compatible with all versions of Adobe Reader allowing users to easily open PDF files converted from OST files.

Posted On: 03-Jun-2025 23:13
herrypiter
herrypiter
10 Points
0 Posts
         

To convert OST files to PDF files without any hassle. There is a TrustVare OST to PDF Converter Tool that you can use to do this, which is 100% safe. The best and simplest way to convert OST files to PDF files without losing email formatting. This tool is easy enough for users who aren't techy to use. It can be used by anyone with Windows OS or MS Outlook. To convert OST files to PDF files, you don't need Adobe Reader or MS Outlook. You can also provide a demo version for free.  You won't lose any data when you convert one or more OST files to PDF. Users can easily open PDF files that were converted from OST files because it works with all versions of Adobe Reader.

Posted On: 04-Jun-2025 05:12
moana
moana
10 Points
0 Posts
         

To convert an OST file to PDF without losing email formatting, try the FixVare OST to PDF Converter. This is the best and simplest way to transfer all types of OST files to a PDF file. The program can quickly export OST files to PDF format. The tool is error-free and has no risk of data loss during the conversion. It supports all Windows and Adobe versions.

Posted On: 04-Jun-2025 21:24
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