Exporting Thunderbird address books extends beyond the standard MBOX export. Here are proven alternative methods for direct data retrieval and conversion:
Method 1: Manual Profile Copying
Thunderbird stores contacts locally within your profile folder. Locate and copy the relevant files:
- Navigate to your Thunderbird Profile Directory (Location varies by OS):
- Windows: C:Users[Username]AppDataRoamingThunderbirdProfiles[Profile Name]
- macOS: ~/Library/Thunderbird/Profiles/[Profile Name]
- Linux: ~/.thunderbird/[Profile Name]
- Identify key files:
- Primary Address Book:
- Collected Addresses:
- LDAP Directories:
- Copy the required .mab files for backup or manual transfer. These files are readable by Thunderbird itself.
Method 2: Direct SQLite Database Extraction (Advanced)
Thunderbird address books (MAB format) are SQLite databases:
- Make a backup copy of the desired .mab file (e.g., *).
- Rename the copy's extension from .mab to .sqlite.
- Open the .sqlite file using an SQLite database browser.
- Locate critical tables:
- cards table: Contains core contact data.
- list_cards table: Links contacts to mailing lists.
- Export table data directly to CSV/SQL format via the browser tool.
Warning: Modifying the original .mab files risks corruption.
Method 3: Export to LDIF Format (for LDAP/External Systems)
- Within Thunderbird, open the Address Book.
- Select the specific address book or desired contacts.
- Go to Tools > Export...
- Choose LDIF (LDAP Data Interchange Format) as the export type.
- Save the resulting .ldif file. This structured format facilitates import into LDAP directories and other mail clients supporting LDIF.
Method 4: Third-Party Add-on for Enhanced Formats
Leverage Thunderbird's extensibility:
- Install reputable address book export add-ons.
- Look for add-ons offering direct export to CSV, vCard (VCF), or Excel formats.
- After installation, access export options via the address book interface or the add-on's menu.
- Verify functionality matches your output format requirements.
Method 5: Per-Contact vCard Export
For individual contacts or small batches:
- Select one or multiple contacts in the Thunderbird address book list.
- Right-click and choose Export > vCard.
- Save the generated .vcf file(s). This universal format is compatible with most email clients and mobile devices.
