EML is a standard email file format used by many popular email clients such as Mozilla Thunderbird, Windows Live Mail, Outlook Express, Apple Mail, and eM Client. While EML files are convenient for storing individual emails, they are not ideal for long-term archiving, legal documentation, or easy sharing. This is where PDF (Portable Document Format) becomes essential.

PDF files are universally accepted, secure, and easy to share, and preserve formatting across devices. For this reason, many users and organizations need to convert files from EML to PDF. In this guide, we’ll explain why conversion is needed, the challenges involved, and the best methods to export EML files into PDF safely and accurately.

Why Convert Files from EML to PDF?

There are several practical reasons to export EML files into PDF format:

Universal accessibility: PDF files can be opened on any device without email clients

Legal and compliance needs: PDFs are widely accepted for audits and legal records

Long-term archiving: PDFs are stable and not dependent on specific email software

Easy sharing: PDFs are simpler to share with non-technical users

Content protection: you can password-protect the contents or restrict from editing.

Because EML files require compatible email clients to open, converting them to PDF ensures long-term usability.

Challenges in EML to PDF Conversion

Before starting the conversion process, it’s important to understand the common challenges:

  • Large numbers of EML files are difficult to manage manually
  • Attachments may not be preserved properly
  • Email headers (To, From, Date, Subject) can be lost
  • Formatting issues may occur during printing or exporting
  • Folder hierarchy is not maintained in basic methods

Choosing the right conversion approach helps overcome these issues.

Method 1: Convert Files from EML to PDF Using Email Clients (Manual Method)

This is a basic approach suitable for small numbers of EML files.

Using Thunderbird or Windows Live Mail:

  1. Open the EML file in the email client
  2. Click File to Print
  3. Choose Save as PDF
  4. Select a destination folder and save

Limitations of the Manual Method:

  • One email at a time
  • Time-consuming for bulk conversion
  • No batch processing
  • Attachments are not saved separately
  • Folder structure is lost

This method is only practical for a few EML files.

Method 2: Convert Files from EML to PDF Using Microsoft Outlook

If Outlook is installed, you can convert EML files indirectly.

Steps:

  1. Use drag and drop options to transfer EML files into Outlook folder
  2. Open each email individually
  3. Go to File to Print to Print to PDF
  4. Save the PDF file

Drawbacks:

  • Requires Outlook installation
  • Manual effort for each email
  • Not suitable for large datasets
  • No automation

While slightly better than basic email clients, this method is still inefficient for bulk conversion.

Method 3: Convert Files from EML to PDF Using Free Online Tools

Several online tools claim to export EML to PDF.

Pros:

  • No software installation required
  • Quick for small files

Cons:

  • File size limitations
  • Security and privacy risks
  • Internet dependency
  • No control over formatting
  • Not suitable for confidential data

Method 4: Convert EML to PDF Using a Professional Tool (Recommended)

For users with multiple EML files, business data, or legal requirements, the CubexSoft EML to PDF Converter tool is the most reliable solution. It shares a very easy to use and a simple interface to help both the technical as well as non-technical users do migrate easily even without any advance technical expertise. It supports both the Windows as well as Mac systems. It also provide many advance features like bulk transfer, maintains the folder hierarchy, selective folder conversion, automatic profile detection, preview option, live conversion, and many advance filters. It shares a straightforward GUI and easy follow steps which helps both the professionals as well as individual users. You can also try out the free demo which let users to convert up to 25 emails from the mailbox for free.

Key Benefits:

  • Batch conversion of thousands of EML files
  • Preserves original email formatting
  • Retains headers (To, From, Date, CC, BCC)
  • Option to save attachments separately or embed them
  • Maintains folder hierarchy
  • Compatibility with all EML-supported clients
  • No email client dependency
  • Supports naming conventions and filters

Steps to Convert Files from EML to PDF:

  1. Install an EML to PDF converter tool
  2. Add EML files or folders
  3. Preview emails
  4. Choose PDF as output format
  5. Apply settings (attachments, naming, and layout)
  6. Start conversion

This approach saves time, reduces risk, and ensures data accuracy.

Best Practices for EML to PDF Conversion

To ensure smooth and error-free conversion, follow these best practices:

  • Create a backup of EML files before conversion
  • Organize EML files into folders
  • Test conversion with a small batch
  • Verify PDF formatting and readability
  • Ensure sufficient disk space
  • Use offline tools for sensitive data

Conclusion

Converting EML files to PDF is essential for users who need secure, accessible, and long-term email storage. While manual and online methods may work for a few emails, they are inefficient and risky for bulk or professional use. The CubexSoft EML Converter tool offers the most reliable, secure, and time-saving solution. It also supports to convert into multiple formats like MBOX, PST, PDF, EMLX, MSG, NSF, TXT, HTML, DOC, MHT, Office 365 and many others.

By choosing the right method to convert files from EML to PDF and following best practices, you can successfully convert EML files to PDF while preserving formatting, attachments, and important email metadata ensuring your email data remains accessible and protected for years to come.