How to Open MSG File without Outlook? Free Methods

Published By Karen Chard

Approved By Rollins Duke

Published On October 11th, 2024

Reading Time 7 Min Read

Are you struggling with how to open MSG files without an Outlook installation on Mac and Windows in 2024? You can open Outlook messages without Outlook installation process on Mac & Windows in 2024. It can be done using several manual and professional methods. However understanding all the factors related to those methods, including their drawbacks and benefits, is essential before starting the process. Here in this write-up, you will get all the information and updated methods to open MSG files on Mac & Windows machines.

Outlook email client developed by Microsoft is mainly known for its mailing and advanced features. However, due to the high price of subscriptions, not all users are capable of using it and they have begun to move away from Outlook.

But Wait… it is not as easy as you may think, Outlook creates multiple types of data files but MSG format is the main extension. Because it contains single email data and you can’t open MSG file without Outlook installation.

Before moving your data anywhere, first, you have to understand the right way to access your Outlook message file.

It is not the only reason to open MSG file without Outlook 2021, 2019, 2016, and other versions. Other multiple reasons exist, which compel users to perform this task. Some of them are given below in detail:

Why Do Users Need to Access MSG File without Outlook?

No Outlook: Of course, as we have said MSG files can only be opened in an Outlook account. So, if you don’t have it installed, you may be unable to access it.
Corrupted Outlook Profile: Corruption is a common issue with Outlook profiles, so if you are unable to open your profile due to corruption. So, you might not be able to open MSG file without Outlook.
Move to Another Platform: Maybe any user wants to switch from Outlook to New computer or any other email client due to the high subscription price.
Data Analysis: Forensic experts may need to analyze MSG files in detail, requiring specialized tools unavailable within Outlook.

How to Open MSG File without Outlook? Updated Ways

You can open MSG files without Outlook installation using Notepad, MS Word, SeaMonkey, Free Viewer, and other methods. If you have files that store confidential data or have multiple files to open, Then you should consider using an expert method. We have explained methods for both Mac & Windows machines. And if you have installed Outlook email client, then go for the manual method.

Important Note: In Methods 1, 2, and 3 original formatting will not preserve while opening the file. Additionally, none of the methods can open multiple files in bulk at once. you have to repeat the similar process again and again.

#1: Using Notepad

Locate your MSG file.
Right-click on it, and choose Rename.
Change .msg to .txt format and save it.
Again, right-click on the changed extension file.
Choose Open With >> Notepad option.

If this method doesn’t work, then move on to another option.

#2: Open .msg File Extension without Outlook: MS Word

Similarly, again change the extension of .msg file to .txt format.
Open this changed .txt file in MS Word.

#3: How to Open MSG File without Outlook With Browser

Find your MSG files.
Choose Rename by right-clicking on it.
Change extension from .msg to .html.
After saving it, again right-click on it.
Choose Open With >> any browser.
Your .msg file will open in HTML format.

#4: Access MSG File without Outlook: Free Method

There is no direct option to open Outlook messages without Outlook installation except RecoveryTools Free MSG Viewer. Yes, this solution is completely free with multiple advanced features. For example, you can easily open MSG files in bulk at once. Also, there is no need to set up any third-party applications like Outlook.

It has a very simple interface so that users don’t require any technical knowledge. Also, it has an updated version, which enables users to convert MSG files to PDF, PST, EML, MBOX, and other 35+ saving types.

How to Open MSG File without Outlook?

Step 1: Download and start the solution.
Step 2: Upload your single/multiple MSG files.
Step 3: All the folders will show on the panel.
Step 4: Click on the needed folder/files.
Step 5: Use the Search option to find any specific email.

Why Free Solution to Open Old MSG Files?

There are multiple reasons why users should choose this free solution. here we have mentioned some features for better understanding:

Access Files in Bulk: Users can easily open multiple files in bulk at once without having any file size restrictions using the Select Folders button to upload.
Separate Options: This free tool provides two separate options to analyze your message attachments separately.
Open MSG File with Attachments on PC: It can preview attached documents of any extension. It also allows you to save attachments.
Advanced Search Option: If you have a large amount of MSG files, then you can use the search option to find any particular email easily.
Open MSG Files without Outlook: This free solution doesn’t require any third-party installation like Outlook. Because it’s an independent and standalone utility.

Complete Working Steps to Access MSG Files

Download and install the software using the given Download buttons on Mac & Windows.
Upload your single and multiple folders using the Select Folders buttons.
All your folders and subfolders will appear on the panel, where you can easily analyze the data.
Select the needed email and all the details will appear on the screen for analysis.
Use the Attachments tab to analyze your attachments separately.
Use the Seach option to find and open any specific data file.
You can Convert button to change your data file into another format.

How to Open MSG File on Mac Without Outlook?

You can open MSG files on Mac machines using SeaMonkey, and TextEdit apps. Both methods are outlined in detail below:

#1: Using SeaMonkey

Apart from Outlook, SeaMonkey is another way to access old .msg files and it’s created by Mozilla company.

Install the SeaMonkey on a Mac machine.
Choose Window >> Mail & Newsgroups from the Menu.
Press on the Cancel when asked to set up a new account >> Exit icon.
Choose File tab >> Open File option.
Select the needed MSG and open it here.

#2: How to Open MSG File without Outlook? TextEdit

Find your MSG file location.
Right-click on it, and choose File.
Choose Open With >> TextEdit option.
Your file will open here successfully.

How to Open MSG File using MS Outlook?

In case, if you have installed MS Outlook, then you can follow these steps easily.

Locate your MSG File.
Right-click on it.
Choose Open With >> Outlook.
Your MSG will open in Outlook account.

Or you can use the drag-and-drag process to import MSG file to Outlook.

Also Read:
How to Open MSG File in Lotus Notes?

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I open a .msg file with Chrome?
Ans: You can change the extension from .msg to .html to access your data file in the Chrome browser.

Q2: How do I open a .msg file in Gmail?
Ans: You can open an MSG file in Gmail by connecting your Gmail account to your Outlook desktop.

Q3: What program opens .msg files?
Ans: Only MS Outlook can open .msg file.

Final Thought

Here we have solved the most searched query on the internet “How to Open MSG File without Outlook”. We have provided all the free methods and solutions for Mac & Windows machines. All the methods have some drawbacks that you have to keep in mind. We have tried our best to give all the details, hope you find the article beneficial to access MSG file.