How to Import MSG Files into Outlook (2026) – 3 Methods
MSG files are commonly used to store individual Outlook emails, including their message content, sender information, recipients, dates, and attachments. If you have saved MSG files outside Outlook and want to add them back to an Outlook mailbox, there are several ways to do it.
Quick Answer: You can import MSG files into Outlook manually by opening them and moving or copying the messages into an Outlook folder. For multiple MSG files, converting them to PST and then importing the PST into Classic Outlook provides a more suitable bulk workflow. The exact process depends on whether you use Classic Outlook or New Outlook.
This guide explains three methods to import MSG files into Outlook, including their benefits, limitations, and the differences between Classic Outlook and New Outlook.
Can You Import MSG Files into Outlook?
Yes. MSG files can be added to Outlook manually, although the available workflow depends on the Outlook version you are using.
For a small number of MSG files, you can use a manual method such as opening the MSG file and moving or copying the message into an Outlook folder. For larger collections, manually processing every message can become repetitive. In that situation, converting multiple MSG files into a PST file and importing the PST into Classic Outlook can provide a more practical approach.
Before choosing a method, determine whether you are using Classic Outlook, New Outlook, Outlook on the web, or Outlook for Mac, because their file-handling capabilities are not identical.
New Outlook vs Classic Outlook for MSG Files
One of the most important considerations when importing MSG files in 2026 is the difference between Classic Outlook and New Outlook.
Instructions written for Classic Outlook should not automatically be treated as instructions for New Outlook.
Classic Outlook has traditionally provided desktop file-handling workflows that make it possible to work with individual MSG messages and PST files. New Outlook has a different interface and feature set, so some older MSG workflows do not behave in exactly the same way.
Microsoft has also changed how drag-and-drop file handling works in newer Outlook experiences. For example, dragging an email to the Windows desktop can result in an .eml file rather than the .msg behavior users may remember from older Outlook versions.
Therefore, if a drag-and-drop instruction does not work in New Outlook, check whether the procedure specifically requires Classic Outlook.
For PST-based bulk importing, use the Classic Outlook workflow when the required Import/Export functionality is available there.
Method 1: Import MSG Files into Outlook Using Drag and Drop
1. Install and launch Outlook 2021 version in your system.
2. Create a new folder with a name like MSG in Outlook mailbox folders.
3. Now go to the location where you saved your MSG files.
4. Next, press Ctrl + A and drag and drop all the files into the newly created folder.
In this way, all your MSG files will now be imported into Outlook client.
Limitations??
- Although this method seems very simple and easy, it has full disadvantages.
- This method is not suitable when users have a large number of PST files.
- The tedious and time-consuming process of importing MSG files into Outlook.
How to Transfer MSG Files into Outlook in Bulk?
Download and Install the Advik MSG to PST Converter on your Windows PC. This software can easily convert MSG to Outlook PST format in seconds. It is the best-recommended solution to convert MSG to PST with attachments that can later be imported to Outlook. With this utility, you can import MSG files into Outlook in bulk. It supports importing MSG files to Outlook 2021, 2019, 2016, 2013, 2010, 2007, and other earlier versions.
Click on the Download button and check its working process for FREE.
Steps to Import MSG to Outlook Client
1. Run the software and add MSG files into the software.
2. Select the required MSG files from the preview.
3. From the list of Multiple saving options select PST.
4. Finally, click the “Next” button and analyze the whole conversion process.
5. Open Outlook; Go to the File tab >> Open and Export and select Import/Export.
In this way, you can easily import your converted PST file into Outlook 2021.
Watch How to Add MSG to Outlook
Why Use MSG to Outlook Converter?
User-Friendly Design: This software has an easy-to-use interface, making it simple for anyone, whether tech-savvy or not.
Transfer MSG Files with Attachments: This software can import multiple MSG files along with their attachments and preserves all types of email data.
Compatible with All Outlook Versions: It works with all versions of Outlook, including 2024, 2021, 2019, 2016, 2013, 2010, 2007, 2003, etc.
No Need for MS Outlook Installation: You don’t need Outlook installed to use this tool for conversion. However, to import MSG files into Outlook, you must have Outlook set up on your computer.
Works on All Windows OS: The tool operates smoothly on all versions of Windows operating systems including 11, 10, 8, 8.1, 7, XP, etc.
Wrap Up
With the launch of Outlook’s new version, importing MSG files into Outlook is a current need. The methods and easy steps outlined above will be very helpful in achieving this goal. Additionally, using automated software will be an excellent choice to ensure a smooth conversion process. Read both methods one by one and choose the one that works best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can I import multiple MSG files into Outlook at once?
Ans. Yes, automated tools like Advik MSG Converter support batch migration of multiple msg files.
Q2. How long does it take to import MSG to Outlook?
Ans. It depends on the number of MSG files. However, the professional solution can quickly upload compared to manual.
Q3. Will attachments be preserved after importing?
Ans. Yes, both the manual and automated methods retail attachments.
