MSG File Extension
Outlook Mail Message
- File Type msg
- Developer Microsoft
- Popularity
- Application Microsoft Outlook
- Category Email Program Files
- Format Binary
What is a MSG file?
Outlook Mail Message, identified by the MSG extension, is a Email Program Files type and includes 50 files.
The Outlook Mail Message (MSG) was created by Microsoft, a company that developed file format and produced 242 programs for their use.
MSG files are compatible with various operating systems, including Windows, Mac OS and Linux. If you need to open a MSG file, you can use one of 14 programs, such as Microsoft Outlook, Outlook MSG Viewer and Windows Mail.
Programs that support MSG files
How to open a MSG file?
If you’re having difficulty opening a MSG file, it is often due to not having the correct software. To solve the problem, choose a compatible program from the list. Then follow the link to the official developer site, download the software, and install it on your device.
Microsoft Outlook, Outlook MSG Viewer and Windows Mail are recognized as the most popular software solutions for dealing with MSG files. To install the most up-to-date edition of Microsoft Outlook, visit the official Microsoft website. You can download the build that works across all operating systems.
After successful installation, your operating system should seamlessly handle MSG files via Microsoft Outlook.
Set Microsoft Outlook as your default MSG viewer
Setting a default program by file type in Windows
- Right-click your MSG file, then navigate to the "Open With" option and click "Choose Another Application" to continue;
- From the list of applications in the pop-up window, find and select Microsoft Outlook as your desired application;
- Check the "Always use this app" checkbox, and then click "OK" to set your chosen app as the default for opening MSG files.
Set default app to open files on Mac
- Right-click or Control + left-click on the desired MSG file to open a menu of available actions;
- Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
- Go to the lower section of the window, where you will find the "Enable" menu. By default, it is set to "Recommended Programs";
- Select "All Programs" from this menu and proceed to search for Microsoft Outlook. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to set it as the default option.
How to edit a MSG file?
Editing MSG files requires installing professional software that lets you open and edit email program files. Online editors have more limitations compared to dedicated Outlook Mail Message programs.
List of Top MSG editors 2026
With the mentioned criteria in mind, we have assembled a selection of MSG editors.
| MSG Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Microsoft Outlook | Microsoft | Windows, Mac OS | 4.8 out of 5 (43 reviews) |
| Pegasus Mail | David Harris | Windows | 4.8 out of 5 (42 reviews) |
Convert to and from MSG
When a MSG file is not easy to work with, converting it to formats like PDF, CSV, PS or other comparable types may help.
Converting a MSG file may not fully retain all functionality, but it is generally possible to return it to the original format.
Convert MSG to other file formats
Converting Files to MSG Format
Solving Common MSG File Challenges
MSG files may present some challenges, but most can be easily addressed with minor software tweaks. See the troubleshooting tips below for guidance.
Are there any techniques or tools available to repair a damaged MSG file?
Open the damaged MSG file with a recovery program, and then select the "Repair" menu item to start the repair process. Wait for the recovery process to finish, as it will automatically repair damaged email program files.
What are the telltale signs of a corrupt MSG file?
Corrupted MSG email program files may show the following signs:
- Unexpected expansion of the total size of the MSG file;
- Opening or processing the file in Microsoft Outlook or other programs causes instability or crashes in the program;
- The file shows errors when trying to open it or does not open completely;
- While working with the file, error messages appear;
- Editing the archive in Microsoft Outlook is accompanied by slow performance or delays;
What factors contribute to Microsoft Outlook crash?
Microsoft Outlook crashes can occur due to outdated software versions. To mitigate this, install the latest updates for Microsoft products.
A simple restart of your computer can often fix many common problems, which is why it is the recommended first step before making any adjustments to your software settings.