Returning to the classic Outlook interface requires selecting the “Switch to old Outlook” toggle in the settings. If you have been wondering how to switch back to old Outlook after the recent update, you are not alone. Many users prefer the familiar layout and functionality of the older version. This guide will walk you through every step to revert to the classic Outlook experience, covering desktop, web, and mobile versions.
Microsoft has been rolling out a new Outlook for Windows and web, which comes with a modern design and integrated features. However, not everyone finds the new interface intuitive or efficient. The good news is that switching back is usually straightforward, though the exact steps can vary depending on your platform and version. Let’s break it down.
How To Switch Back To Old Outlook
Before we dive into the detailed steps, it is important to understand that the process differs based on whether you are using Outlook on Windows, Mac, or the web version. The toggle to revert is often hidden in the settings menu, but we will show you exactly where to find it. Below, we cover all major scenarios.
Switching Back On Outlook For Windows (Desktop App)
The desktop version of Outlook for Windows has seen the most significant changes. If you are using the new Outlook app (often called “New Outlook”), you can revert to the classic version with a few clicks. Here is how.
Step 1: Open Outlook And Locate The Toggle
Launch the new Outlook app on your Windows computer. Look at the top-right corner of the window. You should see a toggle switch labeled “Try the new Outlook” or “New Outlook.” If you are already using the new version, this toggle will be in the “on” position. Click on it to turn it off.
Step 2: Confirm The Switch
When you click the toggle, a pop-up window will appear asking you to confirm that you want to switch back to the classic Outlook. Click “Yes” or “Switch” to proceed. The app will then restart automatically, and you will be back to the old interface.
Step 3: Check For The Toggle In The Menu
If you do not see the toggle at the top-right, it might be hidden in the menu. Click on “File” in the top-left corner, then select “Office Account” or “Account.” Under “Outlook Options,” look for a section called “New Outlook” or “Try the new Outlook.” You should find the toggle there. Turn it off to revert.
Step 4: Restart If Needed
Sometimes the switch does not take effect immediately. If you are still seeing the new interface after toggling, close Outlook completely and reopen it. The classic version should now load.
Switching Back On Outlook For Mac
Outlook for Mac has also received a major update. The process to revert is similar but has some differences. Here is how to switch back to old Outlook on a Mac.
Step 1: Open Outlook And Go To Preferences
Launch Outlook on your Mac. Click on “Outlook” in the top menu bar, then select “Preferences” from the dropdown menu. This will open a new window with various settings.
Step 2: Find The “General” Section
In the Preferences window, look for the “General” icon and click on it. This will show you general settings for Outlook, including the option to switch between the new and old versions.
Step 3: Toggle The New Outlook Option
Under the “General” settings, you will see a checkbox or toggle labeled “Use the new Outlook” or “Try the new Outlook.” Uncheck this box or toggle it off. A confirmation dialog may appear—click “OK” or “Revert” to confirm.
Step 4: Restart Outlook
Close Outlook and reopen it. The classic interface should now be active. If not, repeat the steps and ensure the toggle is definitely off.
Switching Back On Outlook Web (Outlook.com)
The web version of Outlook (Outlook.com) has also been updated with a new look. Reverting here is even simpler. Here is how to switch back to old Outlook on the web.
Step 1: Log In To Outlook.com
Open your web browser and go to Outlook.com. Sign in with your Microsoft account credentials. You will see the new interface by default.
Step 2: Click On The Settings Gear
In the top-right corner of the page, click on the gear icon (Settings). This opens the Settings pane on the right side of the screen.
Step 3: Scroll To The Bottom
In the Settings pane, scroll all the way down until you see a section labeled “Try the new Outlook.” There will be a toggle switch here. If it is on, click it to turn it off.
Step 4: Refresh The Page
After toggling, refresh your browser page. The classic Outlook web interface should now load. If it does not, try clearing your browser cache or using a different browser.
Switching Back On Outlook Mobile (IOS And Android)
The Outlook mobile app has also been redesigned. Reverting on mobile is a bit different because the toggle is not always visible. Here is how to switch back to old Outlook on your phone.
Step 1: Open The Outlook App
Launch the Outlook app on your iOS or Android device. Make sure you are signed in to your account.
Step 2: Go To Settings
Tap on your profile picture or initials in the top-left corner. Then tap on the gear icon (Settings) at the bottom of the menu.
Step 3: Look For “New Outlook” Option
In the Settings menu, scroll down to find a section called “New Outlook” or “Try the new Outlook.” This may be under “General” or “Account.” Tap on it to see the toggle.
Step 4: Turn Off The Toggle
If the toggle is on, tap it to turn it off. You may need to confirm your choice. The app will then revert to the classic interface. If you do not see this option, your version of the app may not support reverting yet.
What If The Toggle Is Missing?
Sometimes the option to switch back is not available. This can happen if Microsoft has forced the update on your account or if you are using a work or school account managed by an IT department. In such cases, you have a few alternatives.
Check For Updates
Make sure your Outlook app is up to date. Sometimes the toggle is added in newer versions. Go to your app store and check for updates. Install any pending updates and then look for the toggle again.
Use The Classic Version From The Start Menu
On Windows, you might have both the new and classic Outlook installed. Search for “Outlook” in the Start menu. You may see two entries: “Outlook” (new) and “Outlook (Classic)” or “Outlook 2019/2021.” Click on the classic one to open it directly.
Contact Your IT Administrator
If you are using a work or school account, your IT department may have disabled the option to switch. Contact them and ask if they can enable the classic version for you. They might be able to adjust group policies.
Reinstall The Classic Version
As a last resort, you can uninstall the new Outlook and reinstall the classic version. On Windows, go to “Settings” > “Apps” > “Installed apps,” find “Microsoft Outlook,” and uninstall it. Then download the classic version from the Microsoft website or use your Office installation media.
Common Issues When Switching Back
Even after following the steps, you might encounter problems. Here are some common issues and how to fix them.
Issue 1: The Toggle Does Not Appear
If the toggle is missing, it could be because your account is enrolled in a beta program or because Microsoft has phased out the classic version for your region. Try using the web version instead, or check if there is a “Classic Outlook” shortcut in your Start menu.
Issue 2: The Switch Does Not Stick
Sometimes after switching, the app reverts to the new version when you restart it. This can happen if there is a sync issue. Try signing out of your account and signing back in. Also, clear the app cache in your device settings.
Issue 3: Missing Features In Classic Version
Some features from the new Outlook may not be available in the classic version. For example, integrated calendar views or new search options might be missing. If you rely on these, you may need to decide which version is more important to you.
Issue 4: Performance Problems
The classic version may run slower on newer hardware or operating systems. Make sure your device meets the minimum requirements for the classic Outlook. You can also try repairing the Office installation from the Control Panel.
Pros And Cons Of Using The Classic Outlook
Before you decide to switch back, consider the advantages and disadvantages of the classic version compared to the new one.
- Pros: Familiar interface, faster navigation, offline access, less clutter, and better support for add-ins.
- Cons: Lacks some new features, may not receive updates, potential security risks, and compatibility issues with newer email protocols.
- Pros: More customizable, supports older email accounts, and uses less system resources.
- Cons: No integration with Microsoft To Do or other modern apps, and limited cloud features.
Weigh these factors based on your personal needs. If you value simplicity and speed, the classic version might be better. If you need modern collaboration tools, the new version could be worth adapting to.
How To Stay On The Classic Version Permanently
If you want to avoid being switched to the new Outlook again, you can take some preventive measures. Here are a few tips.
Disable Automatic Updates
Turn off automatic updates for Office apps. On Windows, go to “File” > “Office Account” > “Update Options” and select “Disable Updates.” This will prevent the new Outlook from being installed automatically.
Use A Local Account Instead Of Microsoft Account
If you use a local account on Windows, Microsoft cannot force updates as easily. Create a local account and use it for Outlook. This may limit some features but keeps the classic version intact.
Block The New Outlook Via Registry
Advanced users can modify the Windows Registry to block the new Outlook. This is risky, so back up your registry first. Search for “BlockNewOutlook” in the registry and set its value to 1. This prevents the new version from loading.
Use Third-Party Email Clients
If all else fails, consider using a different email client like Thunderbird or eM Client. These offer classic interfaces and full control over updates. They can import your Outlook data easily.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I switch back to old Outlook if the toggle is grayed out?
A: A grayed out toggle usually means your IT administrator has locked the setting. Contact them to request access, or use the web version instead.
Q: Can I switch back to old Outlook on my iPhone?
A: Yes, but the option may not be available in all regions. Open the Outlook app, go to Settings, and look for “New Outlook” under General. If it is not there, you may need to wait for an update.
Q: Will I lose my emails if I switch back to old Outlook?
A: No, your emails, contacts, and calendar events are stored on the server. Switching versions only changes the interface, not your data.
Q: How long will the classic Outlook be supported?
A: Microsoft has not announced an end date, but support for older versions typically lasts a few years. Check the Microsoft support page for updates.
Q: Why did Microsoft force the new Outlook on me?
A: Microsoft is gradually phasing out the classic version to streamline development and security. The new Outlook offers better integration with Microsoft 365 and modern features.
Final Thoughts
Switching back to the old Outlook is a simple process if you know where to look. Whether you are on Windows, Mac, web, or mobile, the steps are similar. The key is finding the toggle in the settings and turning it off. If the option is missing, try alternative methods like using the classic shortcut or contacting your IT department.
Remember that the classic version may not receive new features, but it offers a stable and familiar experience. If you prefer it, take steps to prevent automatic updates. For most users, the process outlined above will work without issues. If you run into problems, the FAQ section covers common questions.
We hope this guide helped you understand how to switch back to old Outlook. Stick with what works best for you, and do not be afraid to experiment with the new version if you have time. Both have their merits, but your productivity matters most.