How to export and import Outlook contacts

To export your contacts to a CSV file, the steps depend on which version of Outlook you are currently using to get the data. 

If you are using Classic Outlook (Desktop)

1. This version has a dedicated "File" menu in the top-left corner. 
2. Open Classic Outlook.
3. Click File > Open & Export > Import/Export.
4. Select Export to a file and click Next.
5. Choose Comma Separated Values (CSV) and click Next.
6. Select the Contacts folder from the list and click Next.
7. Click Browse, choose a location (like your Desktop), name the file, and click OK.
8. Click Finish to complete the export. 

If you are using New Outlook or Outlook on the Web

1. These versions use a more simplified interface without a "File" tab. 
2. Go to the People icon on the left navigation bar.
3. On the top toolbar (ribbon), click Manage contacts.
4. Select Export contacts from the dropdown menu.
5. Choose to export All contacts and click Export.
6. The CSV file will automatically download to your computer's Downloads folder. 

How to Import your contacts into Outlook 

To import contacts into each version of Outlook, you will primarily use a CSV (Comma Separated Values) file. 

Outlook Classic (Desktop App)

1. Classic Outlook uses a built-in wizard to handle imports. 
2. Open the Wizard: Click File in the top-left corner > Open & Export > Import/Export.
3. Select Type: Choose Import from another program or file and click Next.
4. Select Format: Choose Comma Separated Values and click Next.
5. Upload File: Click Browse to find your CSV file. Select how you want to handle duplicates (e.g., "Replace duplicates with items imported") and click Next.
6. Choose Destination: Select your Contacts folder (usually under your primary email account) and click Next.
7. Finish: Click Finish to start the process. 

New Outlook (Windows/Mac)

1. The New Outlook interface manages contacts through the "People" section. 
2. Navigate to People: Click the People icon on the left navigation bar.
3. Start Import: On the top ribbon, click Manage contacts and select Import contacts.
4. Upload: Click Browse, select your CSV file, and click Open.
5. Complete: Click Import. It may take a few minutes for the contacts to sync to the cloud and appear in your list. 

Outlook on the Web (Online)

1. The process for the web version is almost identical to the New Outlook desktop app.
2. Access People: Log in to Outlook.com and click the People icon in the left-hand menu.
3. Import: Click Manage (or Manage contacts) near the top-right and select Import contacts.
4. Upload & Finish: Click Browse to upload your CSV file and then click Import.