How to Convert CSV Contacts to PST in Outlook
Updated On - October 10, 2024 by Nasir Khan | Reading Time: 5 minutes
The process to convert CSV contacts to PST in Outlook can be quite challenging if you don’t have the required technical expertise. Therefore, in this article, we will explore methods to import CSV files to PST in Outlook. Additionally, we will provide a brief overview of PST and CSV files. Moreover, this article will highlight the advantages of PST over CSV files. Users can back up CSV to PST using the conventional method or utilize the advanced Regain Excel to PST Converter Tool.
Brief about CSV and Outlook PST File Formats
This section will explore the basic difference between CSV and Outlook PST file formats. Explore the table below to gain some insights about these file formats.
| Feature | CSV File | PST File |
|---|---|---|
| File Extension | .csv | .pst |
| File Format | Comma-separated values | Personal Storage Table |
| Compatibility | Additionally, it is widely supported by many software. | PST is specific to Microsoft Outlook. |
| Data Structure | Plain text with data separated by commas. | Structured storage format for emails, contacts, calendar items, etc. |
| Usability | Primarily used for simple data storage and exchange | Used for storing Outlook data including emails, contacts, calendar, etc. |
| Import/Export | Can be opened and edited in spreadsheet software | Can be imported into and exported from Outlook for data backup and transfer |
| Size Limitation | Typically no inherent size limit, but performance may degrade with large files | Limited to 50 GB per PST file in Outlook 2010 and later versions |
| Backup Options | Can be manually copied or exported | Can be backed up using Outlook’s built-in export functionality |
Advantages to Import CSV Contacts to PST
There are multiple advantages to import CSV Contacts to PST. This section will explore the most prominent reasons to migrate CSV files to PST.
- Centralizing Data: The main reason to convert CSV contacts to PST is to keep all the data in one place. By doing this you can centralize your data in Outlook.
- Integration with Outlook: Outlook offers its users with advanced features and tools. Therefore, it is smart to migrate the CSV files to Outlook PST file format.
- Backup Ease: Moreover, PST files can easily be shared among Outlook users. Additionally, users can easily back up the PST files to their local system.
- Compatibility: PST files are compatible with all the versions of Windows OS. It can be easily shared.
Manually Convert CSV Contacts to PST
The manual method to import CSV Files to PST can be done using the built-in feature in Outlook. Furthermore, this feature is known as Import/Export. FYI: the Import/Export feature can be used to convert PST file to CSV. Additionally, there are some prerequisites before manually migrating CSV contacts to PST files in Outlook. Let’s look at the prerequisites.
- MS Outlook Application should be installed in your system.
- Make sure that the CSV file is correct.
The steps to manually convert CSV Contacts to PST in Outlook are as follows:
- Firstly, open Microsoft Outlook on your system. Then navigate to File > Open & Export > Import/Export.
- Once in the Import and Export wizard, select the Import from another program option and proceed to the next step.
- In the next window, choose the option to import and convert CSV files to PST format. Then, select the CSV option and proceed to the next step.
- Next, click on the Browse button to locate your .csv file, then double-click it to select it. Click Next to continue.
- Afterward, choose the Contacts folder as the destination for the import process, and then click Next.
- If you’re importing CSV contacts from Outlook, the formatting is likely already compatible. Simply click Finish to initiate the import process.
- Finally, to ensure all your CSV contacts are successfully imported into Outlook, review your contacts list.
Additionally, many users seek reliable solutions to convert Mac Outlook Contacts to CSV. The manual method can be effective but has some limitations. In this section, we will explore the limitations of manually migrating CSV to Outlook PST. It is necessary to know these limitations so that users can make informed decisions before undertaking a significant task involving their sensitive data.
Limitations of the Manual Method to Import CSV to PST
- Time-consuming process.
- Potential for errors.
- Limited automation.
- Complexity for non-technical users.
- Risk of data loss.
- Difficulty handling large datasets.
To avoid the above mishaps, it is advisable to implement the method explained in the next section to import CSV contacts to PST.
Automated Method to Convert CSV Contacts to PST in Outlook
Many technical experts recommend using reliable software to perform major tasks, such as importing CSV contacts to PST. This is suggested to safeguard the data from any loss or corruption. Furthermore, many IT experts trust and suggest using the Regain Excel to PST Converter for converting CSV contacts to PST in Outlook. Use this tool to import CSV files to iCloud. Additionally, this tool offers multiple useful features and filters, along with an interactive and easy-to-use user interface.
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Simple Steps to Convert CSV Contacts to PST
- Install and launch the Regain Excel to PST Converter with administrative privileges.
- Click on the Open button to add the CSV files to the software wizard.
- After previewing the added files in the Advanced Preview Panel click on the Export button.
- Choose the Saving format as PST and opt for the additional features and filters.
- Finally, click on the Next button to initiate the process to convert CSV contacts to PST.
Conclusion
In life, we exercise extreme caution and thoroughly review everything before making significant decisions. Similarly, in the digital realm, the process to convert CSV contacts to PST in Outlook is a substantial task. Hence, it’s crucial to choose the most reliable methods to safeguard your data. Users can also benefit from using the Regain Excel to PST Converter for migrating CSV to Outlook PST. Ultimately, the decision of which method to choose is up to you.
FAQ
Q1: Is Outlook necessary to convert CSV contacts to PST in Outlook?
A1: Microsoft Outlook needs to be installed on your system if you’re using the manual approach to migrate CSV to PST. However, if you use Regain Excel to PST Converter, MS Outlook is not required to import CSV contacts to PST.
Q2: Is there an option to migrate the CSV files as calendar items?
A2: Yes, the Regain Excel to PST software offers the users to either migrate excel data as contact items or calendar items.
Q3: Is it possible for me to customize the mapping of fields in the CSV file?
A3: Yes, you can customize the mapping of fields in the CSV file if you use the Excel to PST Converter.
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