What is the Difference Between OST and PST Files in Outlook?

 If you've used Microsoft Outlook, you may have come across two types of files — OST and PST. These files store your emails, calendar, contacts, and other Outlook data. While they seem similar, they are very different in how they work, where they’re used, and how you can move or back up your Outlook data.

In this article, we’ll explain the difference between OST and PST files in simple words. We’ll also show you how to do OST to PST conversion, why it’s needed, and which OST File Converter or OST to PST Converter tools can help you safely manage your data.

📂 What is an OST file?

OST stands for Offline Storage Table.

It is an Outlook data file that allows you to work offline and then sync your changes when you connect to the internet.

➤ Where is it used?

  • Microsoft Exchange accounts
  • Office 365 accounts
  • IMAP email accounts

➤ How it works:

Let’s say your email is connected to an Exchange Server. Outlook creates a local OST file on your computer. You can work on emails, write drafts, and manage calendar entries even without an internet connection. Once you go online, everything automatically syncs with the server.

➤ Important to Know:

  • Tied to your account—only works with the original Outlook profile and account.
  • Not portable—You can't move or import OST files easily to another Outlook.
  • You need to convert OST to PST if you want to use the data elsewhere.

What is an OST file?

📁 What is a PST file?

PST stands for Personal Storage Table.

It is an Outlook data file used to store data locally and transfer data easily between devices.

➤ Where is it used?

  • POP3 email accounts
  • Backup/export of email data
  • Manual import/export processes

➤ How it works:

When you export data from Outlook or create a backup, it is saved in PST format. This file can then be moved, copied, and imported into any Outlook program.

➤ Important to Know:

  • Portable and shareable
  • Great for backups
  • Can be imported into Outlook anytime

🔄 Key Differences Between OST and PST

FeatureOST FilePST File
TypeOffline data filePersonal data file
Used withExchange, Office 365, IMAPPOP3, Backup, Export
Works offlineYesYes
Syncs with serverYesNo
Can be movedNoYes
Can be importedNoYes
Manual backupNot easyEasy
Conversion neededYes (to PST)No

🛠️ Why You May Need to Convert OST to PST

Sometimes, you may need to access an OST file on another computer or after changing email accounts. But since Outlook does not allow importing OST files directly, you need to convert the OST file into PST.

This process is called OST PST conversion.

🧭 Common Scenarios Requiring OST to PST File Conversion

Here are a few cases where migrating OST to PST is needed:

  • Moving Outlook data to a new computer
  • Accessing emails after account deletion
  • Recovering emails from a corrupt Outlook profile
  • Creating a backup of important emails
  • Exporting emails for legal or business purposes

In all these cases, a reliable OST to PST file converter can help you recover and use your email data.

🔧 How to Convert an OST File into a PST?

✅ Method 1: Manual Method (If Outlook is Working)

If your Outlook is still connected to the original account:

  1. Open Outlook.
  2. Go to File > Open & Export > Import/Export.
  3. Choose Export to a file.
  4. Select Outlook Data File (.pst).
  5. Choose folders to export.
  6. Save the PST file.

✅ This method is free but works only if the Outlook profile is active.

✅ Method 2: Using OST to PST Converter Tool (Best for Inaccessible OST Files)

If your OST file is old or orphaned or your Outlook profile is not available, use a tool like BLR OST File Converter.

Steps:

  1. Download and install the OST to PST Converter software.
  2. Open the tool and add your OST file.
  3. Scan and preview the content.
  4. Choose PST as the export format.
  5. Save the converted PST to your computer.

You can now import that PST file into any Outlook—including Outlook 365.

🏆 Best OST to PST Converter Software

If you’re looking for a trusted tool, we recommend using BLR OST to PST Converter.

Why?

  • Easy-to-use interface
  • Works without Outlook
  • Supports large and damaged OST files
  • Allows batch file conversion
  • Preserves original email formatting

Whether you’re a beginner or a tech expert, this tool makes the OST to PST conversion process smooth and error-free.

Best OST to PST Converter Software

Best OST to PST Converter Software

📤 How to Import the PST File into Outlook

Once you’ve converted your OST to PST, here’s how to import it into Outlook:

  1. Open Outlook.
  2. Go to File > Open & Export > Import/Export.
  3. Choose Import from another program or file.
  4. Select Outlook Data File (.pst).
  5. Browse to your PST file.
  6. Click Finish.

Your emails, calendar, and contacts will appear in Outlook right away.

🧾 Summary: OST vs PST

  • OST files are tied to your Outlook account. They are great for offline use but cannot be imported directly.
  • PST files are flexible, portable, and can be used for backups or transfers.
  • To move data from one computer/account to another, you’ll need to convert OST to PST.
  • Use the best OST to PST converter tool, like BLR OST File Converter, to do this safely.

💡 Final Thoughts

Understanding the difference between OST and PST files helps you manage your Outlook data better. While both serve important functions, knowing when to use each file type — and how to convert between them—saves time and avoids data loss.

Whether you're trying to recover old emails or move data to a new computer, always use a trusted OST File Converter tool for quick and safe OST to PST file conversion.

Need help with migrating OST to PST? Feel free to ask—we’re here to make it simple for you!

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