Manual vs Automated Methods to Convert OST to PST — What Works Best?

[bennythomos]

Manual Methods (Outlook Export, Archive, Drag-and-Drop)
Best for: Small, healthy OST files that are still connected to Outlook.
Pros: Free, no extra software, simple for basic export.
Cons: Slow, limited features, cannot convert orphaned or corrupted OST files, requires Outlook and a working profile.


Automated Methods (BLR OST to PST Converter Tool)
Best for: Corrupted, orphaned, large, or multiple OST files.
Pros: Fast, accurate, preserves folder structure, recovers damaged files, works without Outlook, supports filtering & batch conversion.
Cons: Paid tools, need to trust the vendor.

What Works Best?​

• Use manual methods only for small, accessible OST files.
• Use automated tools when the OST file is corrupted, orphaned, large, or when you need a reliable, complete, and quick conversion.

Bottom line:
For simple cases, manual work.
For anything important or complex, automated conversion is the safest and most effective option.

 

[Nick White]

If we discuss both manual and automated methods to convert OST files to PST format, the manual methods do not work effectively, and they come with some limitations, like increasing the risks of data loss, not working effectively with large OST files, and requiring technical expertise.
To overcome these limitations, you can take the help of an automated method like Softaken OST to PST Converter software. This professional and advanced application allows you to convert damaged, corrupted, or healthy OST files to PST format. It also converts complete mailbox data, including emails, contacts, calendars, and other attachments. It offers 100% accurate results without affecting the original data structure and formatting. It supports both oversized and small OST files, ensuring you can convert any OST file without any size limitations. The software is designed with a user-friendly interface that makes it easy for you, whether you are technically inclined or not. Moreover, this application is fully compatible with all MS Outlook and Windows OS versions.