Turning off new Outlook reverts your application to the previous version you were using. If you are wondering how do i turn off new outlook, you are not alone—many users prefer the classic interface for its speed and familiarity. This guide will walk you through every method, from simple toggles to registry edits, so you can switch back in minutes.
Microsoft rolled out the new Outlook for Windows as a replacement for the classic Mail and Calendar apps. While it offers modern features, some users find it slower or less intuitive. The good news is that you can disable it and return to the old version without losing your data.
How Do I Turn Off New Outlook
This section covers the most common ways to turn off the new Outlook. Depending on your setup—whether you use the standalone app or the one bundled with Microsoft 365—the steps may vary slightly. Follow the method that fits your situation.
Method 1: Using The Toggle Switch In The New Outlook App
The easiest way to revert is through the built-in toggle. This option appears in the new Outlook itself, letting you switch back instantly.
- Open the new Outlook app on your Windows computer.
- Click on the File menu in the top-left corner.
- Select Options from the left sidebar.
- Look for a section labeled General or Mail.
- Find the toggle that says Try the new Outlook or Use the new Outlook.
- Turn the toggle off. The app will prompt you to restart.
- Click Restart Now to apply the change.
After restarting, the classic Outlook interface should load. If the toggle is missing, your version may not support it—try the next method.
Method 2: Disabling New Outlook From The Classic Outlook App
If you still have the classic Outlook installed, you can disable the new version from there. This works for Microsoft 365 subscribers.
- Open the classic Outlook app (the one with the ribbon interface).
- Go to File > Options.
- In the General tab, look for Enable the new Outlook.
- Uncheck the box next to it.
- Click OK and restart Outlook.
This method ensures the new Outlook won’t launch again. If you don’t see this option, your classic app might be outdated—update it first.
Method 3: Using Windows Settings To Remove New Outlook
Windows 11 and 10 let you manage default apps and remove the new Outlook entirely. This is a more permanent solution.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to Apps > Installed apps.
- Search for Outlook (new) in the list.
- Click the three dots next to it and select Uninstall.
- Confirm the uninstallation.
Note: Uninstalling the new Outlook does not affect your classic Outlook or email accounts. You can always reinstall it later from the Microsoft Store.
Method 4: Reverting Via The Microsoft 365 Admin Center
For business users or administrators, you can turn off the new Outlook for an entire organization. This requires admin credentials.
- Log in to the Microsoft 365 Admin Center.
- Go to Settings > Org settings.
- Select Outlook from the list.
- Under New Outlook, toggle the option to Off.
- Save the changes. Users will see the classic version on their next restart.
This method is ideal for IT admins who want to standardize the experience across their team.
Why You Might Want To Turn Off New Outlook
Understanding the reasons behind your decision can help you choose the right method. Here are common complaints about the new Outlook.
- Performance issues: The new app can be slower on older hardware.
- Missing features: Some advanced options like custom views or offline access are limited.
- Interface changes: The simplified design may feel less productive for power users.
- Integration problems: It might not sync well with third-party add-ins or legacy systems.
If any of these sound familiar, turning off the new Outlook is a logical step.
Common Issues After Turning Off New Outlook
Sometimes the switch doesn’t go smoothly. Here are problems you might face and how to fix them.
Issue 1: The Toggle Doesn’t Appear
If you cannot find the toggle, your Outlook version might be too new or too old. Update to the latest release or check if your organization has disabled the option.
Issue 2: Classic Outlook Won’t Open
After turning off the new version, the classic app might fail to launch. Try repairing Office from the Control Panel or reinstalling it.
Issue 3: Emails Are Missing
Your messages should remain intact, but if they disappear, check your account settings in the classic app. Re-add your email account if needed.
Step-By-Step Guide For Windows 11 Users
Windows 11 has a slightly different interface. Here is a tailored guide for turning off the new Outlook.
- Click the Start button and type Outlook.
- Right-click the new Outlook app and select App settings.
- Scroll down to Terminate and click it to close the app.
- Open the classic Outlook from the Start menu.
- Go to File > Options > General.
- Uncheck Enable the new Outlook.
- Restart your computer to ensure the change sticks.
If the classic Outlook is not installed, download it from the Microsoft website or use the Office installer.
Using Registry Editor As A Last Resort
For advanced users, editing the Windows Registry can force the classic version. Be careful—incorrect changes can break your system.
- Press Windows + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
- Navigate to: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Office\16.0\Outlook\Preferences
- Look for a DWORD named NewOutlookToggle.
- Double-click it and set the value to 0.
- If it doesn’t exist, create a new DWORD (32-bit) with that name.
- Close the editor and restart Outlook.
This method disables the new Outlook toggle entirely. To re-enable it later, change the value back to 1.
How To Prevent New Outlook From Reinstalling
Microsoft may push updates that reinstall the new app. Here is how to stop that.
- Disable automatic updates for Office apps in the settings.
- Use Group Policy Editor to block the new Outlook installation.
- Uninstall the new Outlook from the Microsoft Store and disable store updates.
These steps help maintain your classic setup without interruptions.
Group Policy Method For IT Admins
If you manage multiple computers, Group Policy can enforce the classic version.
- Open Group Policy Management Console.
- Go to User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Microsoft Outlook 2016 > Outlook Options.
- Find Disable new Outlook and set it to Enabled.
- Apply the policy and update the group.
This ensures all users in the domain see the classic interface.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are answers to common queries about turning off the new Outlook.
1. Can I turn off new Outlook without losing my emails?
Yes, turning off the new Outlook only changes the interface. Your emails, contacts, and calendar events remain in the classic version.
2. How do I turn off new Outlook permanently?
Uninstall the new Outlook app and disable the toggle in the classic version. For extra security, use the Registry Editor method.
3. What if the toggle is grayed out in new Outlook?
This usually means your organization has disabled the option. Contact your IT admin or use the Group Policy method to override it.
4. Will I still get updates if I turn off new Outlook?
Yes, the classic Outlook continues to receive security and feature updates through Microsoft 365.
5. How do I switch back to new Outlook after turning it off?
Reinstall the new Outlook from the Microsoft Store or enable the toggle again in the classic app settings.
Additional Tips For A Smooth Transition
After turning off the new Outlook, you might need to adjust a few settings in the classic version.
- Reconfigure your email accounts if they don’t appear automatically.
- Customize the ribbon to match your workflow.
- Check for add-ins that were disabled during the switch.
- Back up your Outlook data file (.pst) for safety.
These steps ensure you don’t lose productivity during the change.
How To Report Feedback To Microsoft
If you dislike the new Outlook, share your feedback. Microsoft uses it to improve the app.
- Open the new Outlook app.
- Click Help > Feedback.
- Select I don’t like something and describe your issue.
- Submit the feedback. You may also include a screenshot.
Your input can influence future updates and potentially bring back missing features.
Conclusion
Turning off the new Outlook is straightforward once you know the right method. Whether you use the toggle, uninstall the app, or edit the registry, you can return to the classic version quickly. Remember to check for updates and backup your data to avoid any hiccups. If you still have questions, refer to the FAQ or contact Microsoft support. Now you can work in the interface that suits you best.