How to Revert the New Outlook to the Old Outlook

Want to go back to the familiar comforts of the classic Outlook interface? Thankfully, reverting to the old Outlook is generally a straightforward process. The exact steps depend on how you transitioned to the new Outlook in the first place. The easiest scenario is when you were given a toggle switch within the classic Outlook desktop application. Simply find the “Try the new Outlook” toggle (usually located in the upper-right corner) and switch it back to the ‘Off’ position. The application will then prompt you for feedback and restart, restoring your previous Outlook experience. However, if you transitioned through other means, the steps may vary. This article dives deep into various scenarios and provides comprehensive answers to frequently asked questions.

Understanding Your Transition Path

Before attempting to revert, understanding how you upgraded to the new Outlook is crucial. The switch wasn’t a one-size-fits-all affair. Here are the most common scenarios:

• Toggle within the Classic Outlook: This is the easiest to revert.
• Upgrade through Windows Settings: Some users were prompted to upgrade through Windows update or app store mechanisms.
• Standalone “New Outlook” App Installation: Downloading and installing the “New Outlook” as a separate application.
• Migration from older Outlook versions (e.g., Outlook 2013, 2016): This often involves a clean install of the new Outlook.

Knowing your path will help you identify the correct reversion method.

Reverting Using the Toggle Switch

This is the simplest and most direct method.

1. Open the new Outlook: Launch the “New Outlook” application.
2. Locate the Toggle: Look for a toggle switch, typically located in the upper-right corner of the Outlook window. It’s usually labeled “Try the new Outlook” or similar.
3. Switch it OFF: Toggle the switch to the “Off” position.
4. Provide Feedback (Optional): Outlook may ask you for feedback about why you’re switching back. This is optional, but Microsoft appreciates the input.
5. Restart Outlook: Outlook will automatically restart and load the classic Outlook interface.

If you don’t see the toggle switch, your transition method was likely different, and you’ll need to explore the other options below.

Reverting by Uninstalling the “New Outlook” App

If you installed the “New Outlook” as a standalone application, uninstalling it will revert you to your previous Outlook version (if you had one installed).

1. Close the new Outlook: Ensure the “New Outlook” application is completely closed.
2. Open the Windows Settings: Press the Windows key + I to open the Windows Settings app.
3. Navigate to Apps: Click on “Apps” and then “Apps & Features“.
4. Locate “Microsoft Outlook” or “New Outlook”: Scroll through the list of installed apps or use the search bar to find “Microsoft Outlook” or “New Outlook“.
5. Uninstall: Click on the entry and select “Uninstall“.
6. Follow the On-Screen Instructions: Complete the uninstallation process, following any prompts that appear.
7. Restart Your Computer (Optional): While not always necessary, restarting your computer after uninstalling can ensure that all associated files are removed.
8. Open the Classic Outlook: After uninstallation, your previous Outlook version (if installed) should be available.

Important Note: This method only works if you had a previous Outlook version installed before installing the “New Outlook” application. If you performed a clean install of the “New Outlook” and didn’t have a previous version, uninstalling it might leave you with no Outlook application at all.

Dealing with Windows App Store Upgrades

Sometimes, the upgrade to the “New Outlook” happens silently through the Windows App Store. Reverting in this scenario requires a slightly different approach.

1. Check for Updates in the Microsoft Store: Open the Microsoft Store app.
2. Go to your Library: Click on the “Library” icon (usually located at the bottom-left corner).
3. Look for “Outlook” or “Mail and Calendar”: Find the “Outlook” or “Mail and Calendar” app in the list.
4. Check for an “Uninstall” Option: If an “Uninstall” option is available, click on it. This might revert you to the previous version, or remove the app entirely, depending on your system configuration.
5. Reinstall the Classic Outlook (if necessary): If uninstalling the App Store version removes Outlook completely, you might need to reinstall your preferred Outlook version from your Microsoft 365 account or installation media.

This method can be tricky, as the App Store’s behavior isn’t always consistent.

Recovering Data After Reversion

After reverting to the old Outlook, you might be concerned about your data. In most cases, your email, calendar, and contacts will be preserved. However, it’s always a good practice to back up your Outlook data files (.pst or .ost files) before making any major changes. These files contain all your Outlook information, and having a backup ensures that you won’t lose anything.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Will reverting delete my emails or calendar events?

Generally, no. Reverting back to the old Outlook should not delete your emails, calendar events, or contacts. These are typically stored separately in data files (.pst or .ost files) or on the Exchange server. However, it’s always recommended to back up your data before making any significant changes.

2. I don’t see the toggle switch to revert. What should I do?

If you don’t see the toggle switch in the upper-right corner, you likely upgraded to the new Outlook through a different method, such as installing it as a standalone app or through the Windows App Store. Try the uninstall method described above.

3. I uninstalled the “New Outlook,” but I still don’t see the old Outlook. Why?

This likely means that you didn’t have a previous Outlook version installed before you installed the “New Outlook”. You’ll need to reinstall your preferred Outlook version from your Microsoft 365 account or installation media.

4. Where are my Outlook data files (.pst or .ost files) located?

The location of your Outlook data files depends on your Outlook version and configuration. Common locations include:

• C:Users[Your Username]DocumentsOutlook Files
• C:Users[Your Username]AppDataLocalMicrosoftOutlook

You can also find the location within Outlook itself by going to File > Account Settings > Account Settings > Data Files.

5. Can I run both the new and old Outlook versions side-by-side?

No, Microsoft does not support running the new and old Outlook versions simultaneously on the same computer. This can lead to conflicts and data corruption.

6. What are the main differences between the new and old Outlook?

The “New Outlook” is essentially a web-based application running within a container, offering a simpler interface and closer integration with Microsoft’s online services. The “Classic Outlook” is a desktop application with more advanced features and customization options.

7. Why would I want to revert to the old Outlook?

Users might want to revert due to familiarity with the classic interface, the availability of specific features missing in the new Outlook, or compatibility issues with add-ins and customizations.

8. Will Microsoft eventually force everyone to use the new Outlook?

Microsoft has indicated its intention to eventually replace the classic Outlook with the new version. However, they haven’t announced a firm date for this transition, and it’s likely to be a gradual process.

9. I’m using Outlook for Mac. Are the steps to revert the same?

No, the steps for reverting to the old Outlook on a Mac are different. Look for a toggle switch labeled “New Outlook” or similar in the Outlook menu bar. Toggle it to the “Off” position.

10. I’m having trouble reverting. Where can I get help?

You can find help on the Microsoft Support website, through online forums, or by contacting Microsoft support directly.

11. Will Microsoft notify me before forcing me to the new Outlook?

Microsoft typically provides notifications through the Outlook application itself or through the Microsoft 365 admin center. Keep an eye out for these notifications.

12. Are there any potential risks associated with reverting?

The main risk is potential data loss if the reversion process is interrupted or if you don’t back up your data beforehand. Always back up your Outlook data files (.pst or .ost files) before making any changes.

By understanding your upgrade path and following the appropriate steps, you can successfully revert to the old Outlook and continue enjoying the features and familiarity you prefer. Remember to always back up your data to safeguard against any unforeseen issues.