How to Export Chats from WhatsApp Web/Backup - 2 Proven Ways

Discover how to export chats from WhatsApp Web using 2 reliable methods when direct export isn't possible. Includes step-by-step guides for FoneTool and email export options to save your conversations.

By @Kelsey Last Updated October 28, 2025
 

How do I export chats from WhatsApp web?

How can I copy/export a complete chat (with all media/files) to the Notebook (with good presentation/readability, not only a text file or such)? Does WhatsApp Web (on the Notebook) do it?

- Questions from forums

What are the WhatsApp Web Export Limitations?

WhatsApp Web provides convenient access to your messages on PC, but many users want to export WhatsApp chats from WhatsApp Web with complete media files and proper formatting. This guide explores practical solutions for exporting WhatsApp chat history to computer.

Can You Export Chats Directly from WhatsApp Web?

The straightforward answer is no - you cannot export WhatsApp chats directly from WhatsApp Web. The web version serves as a mirrored interface that requires constant connection to your smartphone. While you can download individual media files and documents, the platform doesn't support bulk chat export functionality from WhatsApp online.

Current Limited Options:

  • Take sequential screenshots of conversations

  • Export individual chats as HTML files through mobile app

  • Use alternative methods for complete WhatsApp chat export with media

2 Alternatives to Export WhatsApp Chats from iPhone to PC

Here are the 2 best alternatives to export WhatsApp chats. Instead of knowing how to download chats from WhatsApp web, the two methods help easily save WhatsApp chats to computer.

1# Export WhatsApp Chats from WhatsApp Backup via FoneTool

The freeware phone tool - FoneTool offers the most comprehensive solution for exporting WhatsApp chats from iPhone to PC with complete media preservation and multiple format options.

FoneTool

Best WhatsApp Backup & Transfer

  • Simple WhatsApp Backup Process: No technical skills required
  • Complete Chat History Export: Includes all messages and attachments
  • Multiple Format Options: Export to HTML, CSV/XSL, PDF formats
  • Local Data Security: All processing occurs on your computer

Step 1. Install FoneTool > Connect iPhone via USB cable.

Download FreewareWin 11/10/8.1/8/7/XP
Secure Download

Step 2. Choose WhatsApp Manager Backup WhatsApp > Get Started.

Step 3. Enable backup encryption > Choose storage location > Start Backup.

Step 4. Access Backup History > Locate WhatsApp backup > Click Restore.

Step 5. Preview conversations > Select chats to export to PC as HTML file.

2# Export Chat from WhatsApp via Email

WhatsApp's built-in export function enables transferring WhatsApp chats via email with specific limitations on quantity and media inclusion.

Step 1. Open WhatsApp mobile app > Select target conversation.

Step 2. Tap contact name > Choose Export Chat option.

Step 3. Select Attach Media or Without Media based on need.

Step 4. Choose Mail app > Enter email address > Send.

Step 5. Access email on computer to download exported chats.

⚠️ Export Limitations:

  • Single chat export only (repeat for multiple conversations)

  • 10,000 message limit when including media files

  • Time-consuming process for extensive chat histories

FAQs on WhatsApp Chat Export

Conclusion

Exporting chats from WhatsApp Web directly isn't possible due to the platform's design limitations. For comprehensive WhatsApp chat export with media files, FoneTool provides the most efficient solution with multiple format options. For occasional individual chat transfers, WhatsApp's built-in email export function serves as a basic alternative. Choose the method that best fits your export frequency, data volume, and formatting requirements for saving WhatsApp conversations to computer.