How Do I Restore Google Takeout Data on Mac and Windows?

Bhawna Barwal | backup google takeout mac os Software Technology Windows | 4 minutes read | Modified on: 16-07-2026
restore google takeout

Introduction

Want to know how do I restore Google Takeout data on Mac and Windows? Then follow this precise guide, as here you are going to explore the finest solutions. Google Takeout is an appropriate and convenient service that allows users to export their Google account data, including Gmail emails, Contacts, Calendar, Drive files, Photos, and more. When you export Gmail data using Google Takeout, your emails are saved in the MBOX file format. Many users face challenges when trying to restore Google Takeout data on Windows or Mac because MBOX files are not directly supported by most email clients. Fortunately, there are two reliable ways to restore your Google Takeout data: using manual methods and a precise CubexSoft Google Takeout Converter. In this guide, we’ll explain both approaches, their advantages and limitations, and help you choose the best method based on your requirements.

Google Takeout – Overview

Google Takeout is Google’s official data export service that enables users to download copies of their personal data from various Google products. It is especially useful for:

  • Creating Gmail backups
  • Migrating data to another email service
  • Keeping offline copies of important emails
  • Meeting compliance and archival requirements

Why Restore Google Takeout Data?

There are several situations where restoring Google Takeout data becomes necessary:

  • Recover accidentally deleted emails
  • Migrate to another email client
  • Access archived emails offline
  • Transfer data between Windows and Mac
  • Import old Gmail backups into Outlook or Thunderbird

How to Restore Google Takeout Data on Mac and Windows Professionally?

CubexSoft MBOX Converter for Mac and Windows is a dedicated utility that helps to convert and restore MBOX files into multiple email formats and clients. It simplifies the restoration process while maintaining complete mailbox integrity. The tool also enables the conversion of Google Takeout MBOX to PST, PDF, EML, MSG, HTML, Office 365, Gmail, IMAP, Thunderbird, etc. This tool is available for both Windows and Mac OS. Let’s look at the features and advantages of the software below:

1. Easy to Use: The software features an intuitive interface, which makes it suitable for both beginners and professionals.

2. Batch Conversion: Restore multiple MBOX files simultaneously, which saves considerable time.

3. Maintains Data Integrity: The original email formatting, attachments, headers, and folder structure remain intact.

4. Multiple Export Options: Convert Google Takeout emails into several formats based on your requirements.

5. Faster Processing: This professional tool efficiently handles even large mailbox files containing thousands of emails.

6. Supports Windows and Mac: The utility is available for both operating systems such as Windows and Mac.

How Do I Restore Google Takeout Data on Mac and Windows? Working

Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Install the Software

Download, install and launch the software

Step 2: Add Google Takeout MBOX File

Click on the Add Files and then Select Files and Select Folder options

Step 3: Preview Emails

Get preview of selected data to verify the correct mailbox before conversion.

Step 4: Select Output Format

Choose the desired saving option, such as: PST, Gmail, Office 365, Thunderbird, EML, PDF, etc.

Step 5: Start the Restoration

Click Convert. Now the software restores your Google Takeout data while preserving: Folder hierarchy, Attachments, Email formatting, Metadata

Manual Method to Restore Google Takeout Data

The manual approach works best if you’re restoring emails to Mozilla Thunderbird, as it natively supports MBOX files with the help of an add-on.

Step 1: Install Mozilla Thunderbird

Download and install Mozilla Thunderbird on your Windows or Mac computer.

Step 2: Install ImportExportTools NG

  • Open Thunderbird.
  • Navigate to Add-ons and Themes.
  • Search for ImportExportTools NG.
  • Install the extension.
  • Restart Thunderbird.

Step 3: Import Google Takeout MBOX File

  • Right-click Local Folders.
  • Select ImportExportTools NG.
  • Choose Import MBOX File.
  • Browse and select your Google Takeout MBOX file.
  • Wait for the import process to finish.
  • Your Google Takeout emails will now appear inside Thunderbird.

Drawbacks of the Manual Method

  • Time-consuming for large mailbox files
  • Requires Thunderbird installation
  • Cannot restore directly to Outlook
  • Risk of missing folder hierarchy
  • No batch import support
  • Technical knowledge required
  • May become slow with large MBOX files
  • Because of these limitations, many professionals prefer automated software.

Manual Method vs Professional Software

Users can opt for the manual method If they only need to restore a few emails. If one is comfortable using Thunderbird. And if one does not mind spending extra time.

While on the other hand users must opt for a professional method if they have multiple MBOX files. Need of the faster restoration. If users want Outlook compatibility, multiple export formats. And want to preserve complete mailbox integrity. For business users and IT professionals, the software solution is generally the more practical and reliable solution.

Read more

How to Save Google Takeout Data as PDF

Import Google Takeout Emails to Gmail

Wrap Up

Restoring Google Takeout data doesn’t have to be a complicated task. While the manual Thunderbird method offers a free way to access MBOX files, it comes with limitations such as slower processing, limited compatibility, and additional setup requirements. The software provides a quick and more accurate alternative, enabling users to restore Google Takeout emails while preserving attachments, metadata, and folder hierarchy. Whether you are using Windows or Mac, the tool can significantly simplify the restoration process and reduce the risk of data loss. By selecting the method that best matches your needs, you can safely access, migrate, and manage your Google Takeout data with confidence.