How to Convert Zimbra to PST without Outlook? Complete Guide

Rollins Duke
Published: January 16th, 2026 • 7 Min Read

In this article, we will explain simple manual methods and a reliable Zimbra to PST converter to safely convert TGZ files into Outlook PST format. Additionally, it covers all the information that you need to know related to this query. By the end, you can choose the method that best fits your needs and complete the conversion while safeguarding your data.

Zimbra is a popular email platform that does not allow users to open or save emails in PST format as PST is the native format of Microsoft Outlook. That is why it becomes a huge problem for users when it comes to move Zimbra TGZ files to Outlook, since the data cannot be transferred directly.

Through this comprehensive article, you can hassle-free solve this issue, whether you are a beginner or a professional user. So, read the complete blog post to understand all the methods properly.

How to Convert Zimbra TGZ to PST Manually?

There are two free manual ways through which you can convert Zimbra to PST. We have listed them below. Follow the steps carefully.

Method 1- Export Zimbra to PST

Step1- Configure Zimbra in Outlook

Open Outlook.
Go to File > Add Account.
Enter your account details and wait for Outlook to sync Zimbra mailbox.

Step2- Export Zimbra TGZ to PST

Once the configuration process is complete.
Go to File > Open & Export > Import/ Export.
Click on Export to a file > Next.
After that, choose Outlook data file (.pst).
Select the entire Zimbra mailbox or a specific folder that you want to convert.
Next, set destination path and click on “Do not export duplicate items” option.
Lastly, click Finish to convert Zimbra to Outlook PST format.

Method 2- TGZ to PST Conversion

Step1- Export TGZ file from Zimbra

Log in to your Zimbra Webmail.
Go to Preferences > Import/ Export.
Select individual or all folders that you want to export.
Next, select the export file type as TGZ.
Click on Export and save Zimbra emails as TGZ.

Step2- Extract TGZ File

Once done, locate the TGZ file on your system.
Right-click and unzip the file into .eml files.

Step3- Drag & Drop EML in Outlook

Open Outlook on the same system.
Locate the folder where you want to save EML files or create a new folder.
Select and drag and drop the EML files from local to the Outlook.

Step4- Convert EML to PST

Navigate to File > Open & Export.
Then, click Import/Export > Export to a file > Next.
Choose Outlook data file (.pst) as a saving option.
Now, select the folder in which you have saved the EML files.
Browse destination path and click on “Do not export duplicate items” option.
Click on Finish to save TGZ files into PST.

Limitations of the Manual Methods

These methods are not suitable for converting large mailboxes.
Time-consuming and lengthy processes.
Manual drag and drop can lead to data loss.
Attachments may not be preserved properly.
These are not ideal solutions for a non-technical user as it requires technical knowledge.
Requires Zimbra and Outlook email clients for conversion.
Large file size can cause interruptions or failure in between.

Secure & Professional TGZ to PST Converter for Quick Conversion

Converting Zimbra TGZ files using manual methods can be risky and lead to data loss issues, especially for users who are dealing with large mailboxes. In these cases, to overcome these challenges experts recommend using the BitRecover Zimbra Converter. It is designed with a simple interface to eliminate these risks and provide users safe and secure TGZ to PST conversion.

It is a dedicated tool that preserves complete data integrity, attachments and folder hierarchy in their original form. This is a standalone solution that does not require Outlook or Zimbra installation to convert Zimbra TGZ to PST. So, download the tool now and enjoy its free trial version.

Download Now Purchase Now

Step-by-Step Zimbra to PST Migration Process

Follow the given steps to export Zimbra to Outlook 2021, 2019, 2016, 2013, 2010, and 2007 to save Zimbra mail to PST format as mentioned below:

Launch and Run Zimbra to PST converter in your system.
The software offers two options to convert Zimbra TGZ to PST format i.e., Select File or Select Folder.
Check the required folders and subfolders from the software’s panel.
Click on the Select Saving Option and choose the PST option from the list.
Enable the Change Language option to map the folders into a different languages.
The TGZ to PST converter tool by default selects the Desktop destination to change the route and use the Browse button.
After finishing the Zimbra to PST conversion process, it will show a completion message. Click OK.

The working of this incredible Zimbra to Outlook Migration tool is very fast and precise. The trial version of the software allow users to convert the first 25 elements of each Zimbra email into Outlook PST format. For unlimited Zimbra to PST conversion, activate the software simply by purchasing the corresponding license.

Robust Features of the Zimbra to PST Converter

Dual options to upload single files and single folders easily to the software panel.
Do not impose file size restrictions that allow users to convert large TGZ files quickly.
The software offers the Change language option to map the folders into different and required languages including Dutch, French, German, and Spanish.
The Zimbra to PST converter tool maintains the original folders hierarchy, while converting the emails, and also retains all the elements like Bcc, Cc, To, From, Date, Subject, Formatting, Image, Inline, Signature, etc.
Exported PST files will be supported in all Outlook versions including the latest Outlook 2021, 2019, 2016, 2013, 2010, 2007, and all previous versions.
The software will convert all types of Zimbra files like large TGZ files, encrypted Zimbra, Deleted Zimbra emails, corrupted files, etc.
Users can easily download the Zimbra to PST converter tool in all Windows OS including Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, and all previous versions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How do I export my Zimbra mailbox?

Ans: Follow these easy steps to export Zimbra Mailbox:

In Zimbra, click on the Preferences>Import/Export.
Choose the data, export type and click on the Export button.
Hit the Save File option >> OK button.
Browse the destination location and hit the Save icon.

Q2: Can I use Zimbra in Outlook?

Ans: Yes, you can connect Zimbra in Outlook using the Zimbra Connector for Outlook (ZCO), which enable users to sync emails with all data.

Q3: What is the difference between Zimbra and Outlook?

Ans: Outlook is an email client that allow users to send and receive personal and professional emails. Also, it used to store other information, like contacts, calendar, journals, tasks, and notes.

On the other hand, Zimbra is a secure, fast and open source mail app for messaging and collaboration. The Zimbra Mail is available in both server and desktop versions.

Q4: Where are Zimbra mailboxes stored?

Ans: This is location where Zimbra mailboxes stored – /opt/zimbra/store.

Conclusion

Converting TGZ to PST is not an easy task for users who look to transfer multiple files with proper structure and originality. To maintain this, free download the Zimbra TGZ to PST Converter. It will help you to easily move or export Zimbra emails to PST format at once while saving your time and effort, and also provide you with straightforward steps. Try it once, if you face any issues, contact our support team.