How to View Gmail Backup Files Without an Email Client?
Summary- Are you wondering how to view Gmail backup files? Whether you have downloaded your Gmail via Google Takeout or using any other software, accessing and reading backup files can be confusing if you don’t know the right approach. This guide will walk you through how to open and view Gmail backup files across various formats. So, let’s dive into the article.
What Formats Are Gmail Backup Files In?
When you backup files it is mostly in formats like MBOX or EML. However, there are more formats that we have listed below:
MBOX- This format stores all emails in one single file. Default format via Google Takeout.
EML- Save each email as an individual file with full headers and body content.
PST- It is an Outlook format which is used for importing Gmail into MS Outlook.
PDF- Universal format, emails are saved in readable format for easy sharing and archiving.
CSV- This format is used for exporting Gmail contacts in a spreadsheet format.
Manual Ways to View Gmail Backup Files
View MBOX Files
Step1- Download Gmail Backup Files using Google Takeout
- Go to Google Takeout.
- Deselect all services and select only Mail.
- Choose All Mail data included option. If you want specific labels only.
- After that, click Next, choose .zip format and select Create Export.
- Once your export is ready, download and extract the ZIP file.
- Now, you will find your backup file in MBOX format.
Step2- Using Thunderbird to View MBOX Backup File
- Open Thunderbird and set up email (if asked).
- Then, install the ImportExportTools NG Add on.
- Go to Tools> ImportExportTools NG > Import MBOX file.
- After that, choose the “Import directly one or more MBOX files” option and click OK.
- Thereafter, select your .mbox file from the extracted Takeout folder.
- View all your Gmail emails directly in Thunderbird.
Method to View MBOX Files using Apple Mail (for Mac Users)
- Firstly, open Apple Mail.
- Navigate to File> Import Mailboxes.
- Select “Files in MBOX format” and browse your Gmail MBOX files to import.
View EML Files
Step1- Use Microsoft Outlook
- Simply double click your .eml file and open it in your default email app or Windows Mail.
- Now, drag and drop required emails into Outlook to view.
View PST Files
- Firstly, open Microsoft Outlook.
- Then, go to File> Open & Export> Open Outlook Data File.
- Browse and open the PST file to access email data.
View PDF Files
- Locate the PDF file on your system.
- Open it with any compatible PDF viewer such as Adobe Acrobat.
View CSV Files
- Open Excel on your system.
- Click File> Open and then import the CSV file.
- Now you can view contacts or label data in spreadsheet format.
Limitations of the Manual Methods
While these manual methods are cost-effective, they also hold several drawbacks that we have discussed below.
- They require technical knowledge which makes it difficult for non-technical users to view Gmail backup files.
- Manual methods are time-consuming as reading individual files can consume valuable time of users.
- They do not support bulk viewing files which makes the task tedious and lengthy.
- Manually handling files can increase the risk of file corruption as this may result in losing important data.
- Does not provide advanced filters that may require a lot of human effort.
What If You Can’t Open the Backup File? – Automated Solution
If you’re facing issues while viewing Gmail Backup files then I would recommend you to use the professional, BitRecover Gmail Backup Wizard. This tool is specially designed to help users backup Gmail emails, open or read them in any format they like. It supports a user-friendly interface that enables all types of users to operate the utility without facing any complications, regardless of their technical expertise.
Whether your files are corrupted, incomplete or difficult to access manually, this tool will ensure a smooth and reliable process experience. It’s an ideal and standalone solution which means it does not require installation of any other software. Download the tool now! and enjoy the effortless procedure.
Core Features of the Above Discussed Utility
- Support Multiple Formats- View Gmail backup files in MBOX, PST, EML, PDF, and many other file formats. The tool offers users a wide variety of formats and email clients for easy sharing.
- Independent Tool- It does not require any other email client like Outlook or Thunderbird to read Gmail emails.
- Simple GUI- In addition, it support clean and easy-to-operate interface to allow both technical and non-technical users to make their work done.
- View Complete Email Details- Using this utility, users can read message content, header and metadata, even the attachments without compromising on quality.
- Trial Version- The tool offers a free demo version so that users can preview the workings and features of the software before purchasing the licensed edition.
- Compatibility- Works on all versions of Windows OS whether you are using the latest edition or the old one.
- Browse Destination Path- Moreover, users can select their preferred location path where they wish to store the resultant backup file to easily locate them.
Conclusion
Finally, I would like to conclude that if you want a faster and more efficient experience, then go for the expert-recommended tool. However, manual methods have limitations and users will face many difficulties in configuring accounts. Additionally, while viewing Gmail backup file manually, users need to open & read single emails that may lead to a frustrating process. So, for a hassle-free process, go for the tool. If you face any query related to the software, feel-free to contact our support team.