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Free Image Format ConversionAs a Mac user, you might have encountered various document file formats. If one of those is an .msg file, you might find it challenging to open it on your Mac. This is because MSG files are not natively supported by the Mac operating system.
MSG files are created on a Windows PC by Microsoft Outlook. These files can only be opened by特定的应用程序.
But no need to fret. These files can be accessed through various other means. In this article, we will delve into MSG files and explore how to open MSG files on a Mac in detail.
What is an MSG File on Mac?
Wondering what MSG files are? MSG files represent Microsoft Outlook Items. As stated, MSG files are not native to a Mac system. They can only be opened using MS Outlook on a Windows computer. Files with the .msg file extension are utilized for storing Outlook Mail Message files.
Moreover, these files might consist of an email, a task, and other similar Outlook items saved within a file. There is a Mac version of the Outlook software; however, it does not resolve the issue of opening MSG files on a Mac.
It's evident that Mac isn't capable of recognizing the MSG file format. Let's explore how you can open these files on your device.
How to Open MSG File on Mac? [6 Methods]
Here are 6 different methods to open MSG files on a Mac: 1. Using Microsoft Outlook for Mac: If you have Microsoft Outlook installed on your Mac, you can directly open MSG files by simply double-clicking them. Outlook should automatically recognize and open the MSG file. 2. With Apple Mail: Although not natively supported, you can use Apple Mail to open MSG files by converting them into a supported format first. Save the MSG file with a .eml extension and then open it in Apple Mail. 3. Thunderbird Email Client: Install Mozilla Thunderbird on your Mac, which supports MSG files. Import the MSG file into Thunderbird, and it will be displayed as a new email message. 4. Online MSG Viewer Tools: Utilize online tools like MSG Viewer or Office Viewer to open and read MSG files directly from your web browser without installing any software on your Mac. 5. Third-party Applications: There are several third-party apps available on the Mac App Store, such as MSG Viewer for Mac, that are designed specifically to open and manage MSG files. Download and install one of these applications to access your MSG files. 6. Using Windows Emulators: You can also run a Windows emulator like Parallels Desktop or WineBottler on your Mac to create a virtual Windows environment. This will allow you to open MSG files using Windows-based email clients like Microsoft Outlook. Remember to exercise caution when using third-party tools and ensure they are from reputable sources to avoid any security risks.
Method 1: Running Outlook for Windows on Your Mac
For this method, you'll need an Intel-based Mac and to have Windows installed on your Mac. The Boot Camp utility simplifies the process of installing Windows on a Mac. Additionally, you'll require a Windows installation drive.
Upon installing Windows on your Mac, press and hold the Option key. This action will allow you to select whether to run Windows or macOS. Once Windows has started up, you can proceed with installing Microsoft Outlook. Then, you'll be able to read and open those MSG files.
Aside from that, this solution is relatively expensive and time-consuming. It's only practical if you need frequent access to Outlook for Windows. Additionally, this method is not compatible with the newer Apple Silicon-based Macs.
Method 2: Install an MSG Viewer
You can also install a third-party MSG viewer application that can promptly open Outlook messages on Mac. These apps convert the MSG contacts into VCF format.
One such application you can utilize is MSG Viewer for Outlook. You can access the app on the official website for $17.99, and it can also be downloaded for free from the Mac App Store with in-app purchase options.
The free version of the app only converts specific sections of the file, hence upgrading to the full version is essential. The full version enables batch processing and comprehensive conversion of the files.
Once installed, the MSG Viewer will allow you to open the .msg file, similar to using Microsoft Outlook on your Mac.
Method 3: Install an MSG Converter
Similar to using an MSG Viewer to open and utilize an MSG file, MSG Converters present these files in a format that can be employed and resembles Outlook. These applications are available in both free and paid versions, particularly for advanced features and updates.
MailRaider, msg-extractor, and SysInfo MAC MSG Converter are notable examples. MailRaider facilitates the extraction of plain text from MSG files. It is available for purchase on the Mac App Store for $1.99 or can be downloaded as a free trial version from the official website. msg-extractor is favored by advanced users as it extracts the complete contents of the file.
You can check the Apple App Store for information on available apps and download them onto your device.
Method 4: Try Changing the File Extension
Changing the file extension can also enable you to open the MSG file in another application, particularly if the file was created by a program other than Outlook. The two extensions you can use to open MSG files are .txt and .eml.
1. Converting MSG to a Text File
Translating the text into English: "Changing the file extension to TXT can be useful if you want to view the file's content. However, this extension will not open if the mail contains any attachments."
Step 1. Right-click on your MSG file to bring up the context menu.
Step 2. Choose "Open With" and then click on "TextEdit.app." If this option is not available, select "Open With" and then click "Other" to locate the text editor in the list. This method will open the MSG file, allowing you to scroll through its contents to view the necessary information. Additionally, you can see the sender's details and the recipient's information.
2. Converting MSG to an EML File
This method is one of the easiest and most used by your Mac's mail application.
Step 1. Right-click on the file to open the context menu, then choose the "Rename" option.
Step 2. Type .eml at the end of your file name.
Step 3. You will be prompted to grant permission for the file extension change. Once changed, attempt to open the file to verify its contents.
Method 5: Send it to an Outlook.com Account
Another simple solution, especially if you have an Outlook account, is to email the MSG file to yourself as an attachment. Once you receive the email in your Outlook account, attempt to open the file by double-clicking on the attachment.
If you don't have an Outlook account, you can create a new one by visiting the website Outlook.com.
Method 6: Use a Virtual Machine
A Virtual Machine or Windows VM allows you to read or access documents created in the Windows environment. If you have a version of Windows installed on your Mac desktop, you can run Outlook seamlessly.
VMware, VirtualBox, and Parallels are a few options that enable running virtual machines on your Mac. You can find more information about them on their respective official websites. Installing Windows is a straightforward process, and after it's completed, you will be able to view your .msg files.
Closing Remarks
It is evident that although opening MSG files on your Mac might appear intricate, the methods outlined above can assist you in accessing them. Moreover, it's advisable to opt for simpler solutions, as they enable you to access your files more quickly.
In conclusion, there are techniques available for accessing .msg files on Mac computers. So, the next time you come across an MSG file, there's no need to worry – you can refer back to this article to open and view them on your Mac.
MSG File Frequently Asked Questions
Let's explore some frequently asked questions about MSG files in this session.
1. Which browser should I use to view MSG files?
You can use any web browser to open and view an MSG file, but it will only be properly displayed using Outlook or Microsoft-compatible software. Alternatively, you can utilize a third-party application like an MSG Viewer or Converter for this purpose.
2. How to format MSG files on Windows?
All MSG files adhere to an Outlook-based format, and to open them on a Windows system, you need to have the Outlook desktop application installed on your device. If Outlook is installed and configured on your device, the MSG file format will be compatible. Additionally, you can alter the file's extension to access its contents.
3. Recommended best MSG file viewer:
Numerous MSG viewer applications are available that facilitate opening and reading the contents of your MSG files. While many of these require purchasing, there are also free trial versions available for you to test before committing.
The best MSG file viewer is one that offers numerous features at a reasonable cost and ensures high quality. Some top options available in the market include MSG Viewer for Outlook, SysInfo MSG Viewer, MessageViewer Online, MsgViewer, Klammer, etc.