In our digital era, emails have become an essential part of our everyday communication. Microsoft has developed a unique file format called EML, which is used by multiple email clients to store messages. If you've ever come across an EML file on your computer and wondered how to open it, you're not alone. Although these files might seem challenging to work with at first glance, they're relatively straightforward once you understand how. This blog post provides a step-by-step guide to help you easily open EML files in Windows 10 using different methods and tools.
Understanding EML Files
Before diving into the methods of opening EML files, it's crucial to understand their importance. EML files, which contain the message, subject, sender, recipient, and date information, are commonly used for archiving and backing up emails. They offer a reliable way to store vital communications, which can be invaluable in personal and professional settings. Understanding how to open EML files can significantly enhance your digital communication skills, providing you with greater flexibility and control over your email archives.
How to Open EML Files?
There are several ways to open an EML file, depending on the software available to you. We'll delve into five distinct methods, each tailored to a different set of tools: MS Outlook, Internet Explorer, MS Word, Notepad, and the specialized SysCurve EML Converter. Whether you have an email client installed, just a web browser, or even a simple text editor, this guide has got you covered.
Method 1: Open EML Files in Outlook
MS Outlook is a popular choice for opening EML files as it provides a holistic view of the email content, including original formatting and attachments. This method assumes that you already have MS Outlook installed on your computer.
- Select the EML file you want to open.
- Right-click on the selected EML file.
- Select Open With and choose MS Outlook.
Method 2: Open EML Files in Windows 10 Mail App
The Windows 10 Mail app is a convenient option for opening EML files, especially for those who prefer a built-in application without needing additional software. This method is straightforward and utilizes the default mail application provided in Windows 10. Here's how to do it:
- Navigate to the folder where your EML file is stored.
- Right-click on the EML file
- Choose Open With option to see a list of applications that can open EML files.
- Click on Mail to open the EML file. If Mail is not visible, click on Choose another app and find Mail from the list of available applications.
- The Mail app will display the contents of the EML file, including the body of the email and any attachments.
Note: If the Mail app is not set up with an email account, it may prompt you to configure one. However, for just viewing EML files, setting up an account is not necessary.
Method 3: Open EML File with Internet Explorer
If you don't have access to a mail client like Outlook, you can still open EML files using Internet Explorer. However, this method requires you to change the extension of the EML file to MHT.
- Select the EML file you want to open.
- Right-click on the selected EML file and choose the Rename option.
- Remove the .eml and type .mht
- Press Enter key.
- A rename screen will popup, click on the Yes button.
- Right-click on the converted file.
- Select Open With and choose Internet Explorer.
Method 4: Open EML File with Word
Another solution is to use MS Word to open the EML file. However, it's important to note that this method won't allow you to view or download attachments within the EML file.
- Select the EML file you want to open.
- Right-click on the selected EML file and select the Choose another app option.
- Click on More Apps and select MS Word.
Method 5: Open EML file with Notepad
If your machine doesn't have an email client, Internet Explorer, or MS Word, you can use Notepad to open EML files. It's a quick and simple way to view basic email details, but it won't allow you to access hyperlinks, attachments, and images.
- Select the EML file and right-click on it
- Select Rename option
- Remove the .eml and type .txt
- Press Enter key.
- A rename screen will pop up, click on the Yes button.
- Double-click on the converted file
Method 6: Open EML File with EML Converter
If you're seeking a straightforward method to open EML files and convert them into different formats, you can't find a more suitable tool than the SysCurve EML to PST converter. This comprehensive EML Converter not only simplifies the process of viewing your EML files but also converts them into your preferred file format, providing you with a versatile solution for all your EML file needs.
- Download and Install SysCurve EML to PST Converter
- Launch the tool and click on Add File option
- Select the EML files and click on the OK button to start the loading process
- Once the process is complete, it will show all the EML files in a list
- Select an item to view the message with the attachment
Other helpful features
- Open and view EML files along with the attachment.
- Convert EML to PST, MSG, EMLX, HTML, and RTF formats.
- Perform selective conversion based on To, From, Date, Subject, Cc, Bcc, etc.
- Free EML file conversion for the first 20 items.
- Support all versions of Outlook, including 2019, 2016, 2013, etc.
- Compatible with all editions of Windows OS, including Windows 10.
Frequently Asked Questions
Now that you've learned different ways to open EML files, let's address some questions that can further clarify this topic and help you handle EML files more efficiently.
What programs can open EML files?
There are several email programs that you can use to open EML files, such as MS Outlook, Windows Live Mail, Thunderbird, Apple Mail, and more.
How can I open EML files without Outlook?
There are several manual methods available to open EML files without Outlook. You can also use an EML viewer or EML Converter tools.
How do I open EML files in Windows 10?
Several methods are available to open EML files in Windows 10, including using email clients, manual methods, and EML converters.
Are EML files safe to open?
Yes, EML files are generally safe to open. They are simply text files that contain an email's data. However, like any other file, you should only open EML files from sources you trust as they may contain harmful attachments or links.
What do I do if I have multiple EML files to open?
If you have multiple EML files to open, using an EML viewer or an EML to PST Converter can be quite helpful. These tools can bulk load EML files, saving you the time of opening them individually.
Can I convert EML files to another format?
Yes, you can convert EML files to various other formats like PST, MSG, MBOX, etc., using a dedicated EML converter tool such as SysCurve EML to PST Converter. This can be useful if you're migrating to a different email client that doesn't support EML files.
How do I open an EML file in Gmail?
To open EML files in Gmail, you can attach the file to a draft email and then open it from there.
- Log in to your Gmail account.
- Click on the Compose button.
- Click on the attachment and select the EML file which you want to open.
- Click on the cut icon to save the message in drafts.
- Go to the drafts folder and click on the attached EML file.
- After that, Gmail will display the EML file inside a new window.
Are there any limitations when viewing EML files in text editors like Notepad?
Viewing EML files in text editors will show you the raw text, which includes headers and HTML code. This means you won't see formatted text, images, or be able to interact with attachments.
If I upgrade to Windows 11, will there be any changes in how I handle EML files?
The fundamental process of handling EML files remains the same. However, you might find improved integration with newer email clients or tools in Windows 11.
The Final Word
EML files are versatile and widely used in various email programs, making them an essential part of our digital communication. Learning how to open EML files expands your capability to manage and interact with your digital communication tools, whether you're using an email client like MS Outlook, a simple text editor like Notepad, or a specialized tool like SysCurve EML Converter.
Remember that each method has its strengths and limitations - what matters is choosing the one that best suits your needs. We hope this comprehensive post helps you navigate EML files with ease and confidence.
