You import Thunderbird SBD (Subdirectory) files to Outlook using a dedicated SBD to Outlook Converter Tool, which ensures a smooth and accurate migration of all your mailbox data while keeping it safe and intact. SBD files store multiple folders and emails in a structured format, but they are not directly supported by Outlook, making the conversion process important for accessibility.
Why Import SBD File in Outlook?
Mozilla Thunderbird stores email data in many formats, including SBD format. There can be many reasons why a user may need to import only an SBD file in Outlook, such as:
- For the selective migration of Thunderbird folders to Outlook.
- To restore Thunderbird backup in SBD format in Outlook.
- To regain access in case of Thunderbird corruption & only SBD remains.
Note: Outlook does not support SBD format, hence they cannot be directly imported into Outlook; you first need to convert them to the compatible file format. Only SBD with MBOX files inside can be converted and processed into Outlook.
This guide gives exact step-by-step instructions to convert Thunderbird SBD to Outlook without losing properties and import them in Outlook 2019, 2016, 2013 & other versions.
Best Solution to Import Thunderbird SBD to Outlook
Get the Thunderbird Converter, a specialized tool to convert all Thunderbird-associated files like MBOX, SBD, ZIP (backup), etc., into multiple formats such as EML, PDF, MSG, etc., with all emails for easy Mozilla Thunderbird migration into other email clients while preserving all the attributes.
Download the tool – a free trial is available to convert 25 emails per folder.
Advantages of Using the SBD to Outlook Converter Tool
- Enables you to select multiple SBD folders at once without any file size restriction.
- Maintains folder hierarchy, email header, and other email content like formatting, signature, etc.
- Let’s you limitlessly preview email structure from SBD files without restriction.
- Offers a filter option to convert specific Thunderbird SBD data based on date, sender, receiver, etc.
- Includes a built-in feature to split large output files for better management and performance.
- Offers an Easy to use interface and simple setup, conversion process accessible to all.
- Offers an eye-catching feature to choose a destination location to save the converter data safely.
How to Import SBD Files into Outlook from Mozilla Thunderbird?
- Download the Thunderbird to PST converter.
- Choose the option for Let Me Select Thunderbird Mailbox Data.
- Click on Select Folder.
- Open the SBD.
- Preview and select the email folder from the SBD.
- Choose PST (Outlook Data File) from the saving option.
- Press Next to begin the SBD conversion.
Steps to Import the Converted SBD in Outlook
- Open Microsoft Outlook New or Classic.
- Click on File.
- Choose Open & Export.
- Click on Open Outlook Data File.
- Choose the converted file and press Open.
You have successfully imported Thunderbird SBD files to Outlook.
Is there any Free-Manual Way to Import SBD Files to Outlook?
Yes, however, the SBD files must be non-corrupted SBD. Here are the steps to follow:
Pre-Requisite: In Mozilla Thunderbird, navigate to Menu >> Themes & Add-ons, then search for and install the ImportExportTools NG add-on.
- Open Mozilla Thunderbird on your computer.
- Go to the local folder and create a new folder namely SBDImport.
- Right-Click and choose ImportExport NG Tools
- Choose Import MBOX files
- Select the non-extension files from the SBD folder.
- Press Open to confirm and restart Thunderbird.
- Right-click on the SBDImport folder >> ImportExport NG Tools
- Export EML messages >> individual EML messages
- Open Outlook
- Drag and drop the EML files from File Explorer or Finder to Outlook.
Although this method works in certain scenarios to import SBD files to Outlook. It is not 100% reliable. Users often complain about missing data and lost folder properties.
What is an SBD File in Thunderbird?
.sbd/SBD – stands for SubDirectory. SBD is a folder container used by Mozilla Thunderbird SBD to manage subfolders.
Every email account and every mailbox under a configured IMAP or POP account with a subfolder has an SBD folder.
Generally, an SBD folder contains .msf files (local index of the subfolder) and the non-extension MBOX to save emails. However, for the IMAP folder, MBOX may be missing.
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