A Quick Guide to Convert PST to ICS: Verified Solution

Unfortunately, you can’t export PST calendar data into the ICS format with Outlook’s own export option. This article will look at how you can convert PST files into ICS for free or with a PST Migration Tool.

PST and ICS Formats Overview

Before we convert PST file to ICS, it’s important to understand what each of those file formats means.

Personal Storage Table (PST): 

A proprietary Microsoft Outlook format used to store mailbox data such as emails, contacts, and calendars on a user’s computer. It is only accessible with Outlook or O365, i.e., platform dependent.

Internet Calendar Scheduling (ICS):

An open format for calendar data that stores event info like date, time, location, and participants. It can be imported into nearly all calendar applications, including Google Calendar, Apple Calendar, and even Outlook Calendar itself. 

Motive to Convert PST to ICS Format

Since PST is a Microsoft Outlook exclusive format, users often find themselves with a need to convert Outlook PST calendars to ICS. This is especially true when moving data between platforms or for sharing calendar events. Some other general reasons include:

• Supported by nearly all major calendar applications, and allows you to share your calendar beyond Outlook.
• When moving from Outlook to a service such as Gmail or Apple Calendar, ICS allows you to effortlessly transfer items.
• Exporting calendars as ICS files allows for a safe, readable backup format that does not require Outlook.
• ICS files can be quickly shared with colleagues or clients without having them open Outlook.
• No format issues regardless of whether they are accessed and imported on Windows, macOS, Linux, or mobile.

How to Reliably Convert Outlook PST to ICS?

Users with a few mailboxes can go for the manual method with full control for PST to ICS conversion. Whereas users with large mailboxes and in need of more data security can download the professional tool for quick conversion.

Traditionally Convert PST to ICS Calendar

Outlook does not have a direct one-click method to export an entire PST calendar to ICS format. However, you can manually extract calendars by taking the following actions:

1. Launch Microsoft Outlook on your Windows OS.
2. Then, open the File menu, select Open & Export, and choose Open Outlook Data File.
3. From there, select the option for PST and browse it on your PC.
4. Now, select and open the PST containing your calendar data.
5. Once saved as a PST, navigate to the Calendar area in Outlook.
6. Later, select the desired calendar to export and go to File.
7. After that, click on Save Calendar. Also, select the iCalendar Format (.ics).
8. Choose a location to save the resultant file, and lastly, click Finish to complete the export process.

You will now have an ICS file containing your Outlook calendar events. 

Shortcomings of the Manual Method

• You may only export one calendar at a time.
• It requires the Outlook app to be installed and running.
• Does not work properly for large PST files or corrupted PST files.
• This is a very slow process and may omit data if you are not careful.

Automatically Convert PST to ICS Format

An expert verified PST Migration Tool enables you to extract and export calendar data in a safe, effective, and fully automated process without Outlook. It can bulk export a calendar into ICS format directly, while preserving the original description, all metadata, and folder structure. Moreover, it is best for large-scale calendar migration while ensuring your detailed information is all accurate with minimal work effort. 

Real Case Scenario:One project manager needed to transfer multiple team calendars from Outlook to Google Calendar. They used the PST to ICS Conversion Tool to export the entire calendar at once rather than individually. The events kept their integrity concerning times, collaborators, and meeting reminders!  Instead of hours repetitively exporting individual meetings, the project manager easily accomplishes the task in a fraction of the time.

Working Guide to Convert PST into ICS

1. Install the PST Migrator and click Next after you run it as administrator.
2. After that, with Select File/Folder, upload your PST calendar files. Tap Next.
3. Further, from the preview window, select Calendar among the tree view and tap Next.
4. Later, choose ICS from the file formats menu and apply the relevant filters.
5. Finally, pick a destination for it and click Convert to change PST to ICS.

Also Read: Import PST File to Yandex Mail

Conclusion

The goal to convert PST to ICS (iCalendar file) is related to access, ease of collaboration, and the independence of data. Though using a manual approach may be adequate for small, single calendar PST exports, they are insufficient for larger or more complicated migrations. A reliable PST to ICS Converter will reduce the load of manual conversion by easily processing large exports quickly and accurately, while ensuring reliable conversion.

For any conversion troubles or issues with the software, reach out to our Expert Support 24*7.

Frequently Asked Questions