Reverting from the new Outlook to the old version requires a few clicks inside the application’s account settings panel. If you are searching for how to revert from new Outlook to old Outlook, you are likely frustrated with the redesigned interface or missing features. This guide walks you through the process step by step, covering Windows 10, Windows 11, and even some workarounds if the standard method fails.
Understanding The New Outlook Vs Old Outlook
Microsoft rolled out a new Outlook for Windows in 2023, aiming to unify the experience across devices. The new version looks modern but lacks some classic features like offline access, COM add-ins, and certain customization options. Many users prefer the old Outlook for its stability and familiar layout.
The good news is that Microsoft allows you to switch back easily—at least for now. The toggle is built into the application, but it can be tricky to find if you don’t know where to look.
How To Revert From New Outlook To Old Outlook
This section covers the primary method to switch back. Follow these steps carefully to avoid confusion.
Step 1: Open The New Outlook
Launch the new Outlook application on your Windows computer. You can find it in the Start menu or by searching for “Outlook” in the taskbar. Make sure you are signed in with your Microsoft account or work account.
Step 2: Locate The Toggle Switch
Look at the top-right corner of the window. You should see a toggle switch labeled “Try the new Outlook.” If you are already using the new version, this toggle will be in the “on” position. Click it to turn it off.
If you don’t see the toggle, try these steps:
- Click the three-dot menu (More options) in the top-right corner.
- Select “Settings” from the dropdown menu.
- In the Settings panel, go to “General” and then “Appearance.”
- Find the “Try the new Outlook” option and toggle it off.
Step 3: Confirm The Switch
After turning off the toggle, a pop-up window will appear asking you to confirm. It might say something like “Switch to classic Outlook?” Click “Yes” or “Switch.” The application will close and reopen automatically in the old version.
If the pop-up does not appear, restart Outlook manually. The old version should load by default now.
Step 4: Verify The Old Outlook Is Working
Once Outlook reopens, check the title bar. It should say “Outlook” without the word “New.” Also, verify that your email accounts, folders, and settings are intact. If something is missing, you may need to reconfigure your account.
Alternative Methods To Revert
Sometimes the toggle method does not work due to group policies or corporate restrictions. Here are other ways to revert.
Using The Registry Editor
Warning: Editing the registry can cause system issues. Backup your registry first.
- Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
- Navigate to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Office\16.0\Outlook\Preferences - Look for a DWORD value named NewOutlookToggle. If it exists, double-click it and set the value to 0.
- If the value does not exist, right-click, select New > DWORD (32-bit), name it NewOutlookToggle, and set it to 0.
- Close the registry editor and restart Outlook.
Using Group Policy Editor (For Work Accounts)
If your organization manages Outlook settings, you may need IT help. But you can try this:
- Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.
- Navigate to: User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Microsoft Outlook 2016 > Outlook Options > Other
- Find the policy “Turn off the new Outlook toggle.” Enable it.
- Apply the changes and restart Outlook.
Uninstall And Reinstall Classic Outlook
If all else fails, uninstall the new Outlook and reinstall the classic version from your Microsoft 365 subscription or Office installer.
- Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps (Windows 11) or Apps & features (Windows 10).
- Find “Microsoft Outlook” or “Microsoft 365” and click Uninstall.
- Download the classic Outlook installer from your Microsoft account portal.
- Run the installer and choose the classic version (usually labeled “Outlook” without “New”).
Common Issues When Reverting
Even after following the steps, you might face problems. Here are solutions to frequent issues.
Toggle Does Not Appear
If the toggle is missing, your account might be managed by an organization. Contact your IT administrator. Alternatively, check if you are using the Windows Mail app instead of the full Outlook client.
Outlook Keeps Switching Back To New Version
This can happen if Microsoft updates the app automatically. To prevent this:
- Disable automatic updates for Office apps temporarily.
- Use the registry method mentioned above to lock the toggle off.
- Switch to the classic version and avoid clicking “Try the new Outlook” again.
Missing Emails Or Settings After Revert
Sometimes the old Outlook does not sync properly. Try these fixes:
- Go to File > Account Settings > Account Settings and repair your email account.
- Re-add your email account manually.
- Check if you are in offline mode (bottom-right corner) and switch to online.
Why You Might Want To Stay With Old Outlook
The new Outlook has some advantages, but many users prefer the classic version for these reasons:
- Offline access: Old Outlook works without internet for reading and composing emails.
- Add-in support: Classic Outlook supports COM add-ins, which many business tools rely on.
- Customization: You can customize the ribbon, toolbar, and views more extensively.
- Performance: On older hardware, the classic version runs faster and uses less memory.
- Familiar interface: If you have used Outlook for years, the new layout can be disorienting.
When The New Outlook Might Be Better
Before reverting, consider if the new version suits your needs. It offers:
- Better integration with Microsoft 365 apps like Teams and To Do.
- Improved search functionality.
- Modern design with dark mode.
- Built-in calendar sharing features.
If you only need basic email and calendar functions, the new Outlook might work fine. But for power users, the classic version is often superior.
How To Prevent Accidental Switch To New Outlook
After reverting, you want to avoid being prompted again. Here is how:
- In the old Outlook, go to File > Options > General.
- Uncheck the box that says “Enable the new Outlook experience.”
- Click OK and restart Outlook.
This setting might not be available in all versions. If not, use the registry method to disable the toggle permanently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Revert From New Outlook To Old Outlook Without Losing Data?
Yes, reverting does not delete your emails, contacts, or calendar items. They are stored on the server or in your local data file. However, some settings like signatures might reset.
How Do I Revert From New Outlook To Old Outlook On Windows 11?
The process is the same as on Windows 10. Open the new Outlook, find the toggle in the top-right corner, and turn it off. If the toggle is missing, use the registry or group policy methods.
Will Microsoft Force Me To Use The New Outlook Eventually?
Microsoft has not announced a date to remove the old Outlook entirely. But they are pushing the new version aggressively. It is wise to learn the new interface while keeping the old one as a backup.
Why Is The Toggle To Revert Not Showing In My Outlook?
This can happen if you are using a work or school account with policies that hide the toggle. Contact your IT administrator. Also, ensure you are using the full Outlook desktop app, not the Windows Mail app.
Can I Use Both Old And New Outlook At The Same Time?
Technically, yes. You can install the classic Outlook from your Office suite and also use the new Outlook app from the Microsoft Store. But they share the same data file, so conflicts may occur. It is safer to stick with one version.
Final Tips For A Smooth Revert
Before you start, backup your Outlook data file (.pst or .ost). Go to File > Open & Export > Import/Export and export your emails to a backup file. This protects you in case something goes wrong.
If you are reverting on a work computer, check with your IT department first. Some organizations have policies that prevent switching back. They might also have a specific procedure for you to follow.
Remember that the new Outlook is still in development. Microsoft adds features regularly. You might want to try it again in a few months to see if it meets your needs. But for now, reverting is a simple process that takes less than a minute.
If you encounter any issues, Microsoft’s support forums and community pages have detailed guides. You can also search for “how to revert from new Outlook to old Outlook” for video tutorials.
Stick with what works for you. The old Outlook has been reliable for decades, and there is no rush to change if it does not suit your workflow.