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How to Reclaim the Classic: Switching Back to Classic Outlook

The march of technology is relentless, and Microsoft’s Outlook is no exception. But sometimes, progress means leaving behind familiar comforts. If you’ve found yourself adrift in the “new” Outlook and long for the streamlined simplicity of the classic version, you’re not alone. Good news: the journey back is often achievable, though the path depends on a few key factors.

The most direct way to revert to Classic Outlook is usually found within the “new” Outlook interface itself. Look for a toggle switch or setting labeled something along the lines of “Try the new Outlook,” “New Outlook,” or “New Outlook is On“. This toggle is typically located in the upper-right corner of the Outlook window. Simply switch this toggle off. Outlook will then ask you for feedback on why you’re switching back. While providing feedback is optional, it does help Microsoft understand user preferences. After you have switched the toggle off, Outlook will close and relaunch in the Classic Outlook version.

However, the existence and location of this toggle can vary based on your specific Outlook version, Microsoft 365 subscription, and whether you’re using the desktop app or the web version. Let’s delve deeper into the specifics.

Understanding the Switchback Options

The availability of the switchback option hinges on a few crucial elements. Before you start hunting for toggles, consider these points:

The Version of Outlook: Are you using the Outlook desktop app, the Outlook web app (OWA), or a mobile app? The steps will differ.
Your Microsoft 365 Subscription: Users on enterprise plans (especially those managed by an IT department) may have restricted access to certain features, including the ability to switch back to Classic Outlook.
Microsoft’s Rollout Strategy: Microsoft gradually rolls out new features and interfaces. There may be periods where the switchback option is temporarily unavailable or hidden.

Switching Back from the New Outlook Desktop App

For most users of the Outlook desktop app, the toggle switch described above is the primary method. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

Open the “New” Outlook: Launch the Outlook application on your computer.
Locate the Toggle: Look for the “Try the new Outlook” (or similar wording) toggle in the upper-right corner of the window, directly below your profile picture.
Switch it Off: Click the toggle to turn it off.
Provide Feedback (Optional): Outlook will likely ask for feedback on why you’re switching back. This is valuable data for Microsoft, but you can skip it if you prefer.
Restart Outlook: Outlook will close and automatically relaunch in the Classic Outlook version. If it doesn’t, manually restart the application.

Returning to Classic in Outlook Web App (OWA)

The process for the Outlook Web App (OWA) is similar, but the interface might differ slightly:

Access OWA: Open your web browser and go to outlook.office.com.
Find the Toggle: Look for a toggle or setting, possibly labeled “New Outlook” or “New Outlook is On,” usually in the upper-right corner of the screen.
Disable the New Outlook: Turn the toggle off.
Refresh Your Browser: The page may automatically refresh to load the Classic Outlook interface. If not, manually refresh your browser.

What if the Toggle is Missing?

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, the toggle switch is simply not visible. This could be due to several reasons:

IT Policy: Your organization might have disabled the switchback option through group policies. Contact your IT department for assistance.
Temporary Removal by Microsoft: Microsoft occasionally removes the toggle temporarily for maintenance or to gather data. In this case, patience is key. Check back periodically to see if the toggle reappears.
Account Configuration Issues: In rare cases, account configuration problems can interfere with the display of the toggle. Try clearing your browser’s cache and cookies (for OWA) or repairing your Outlook installation (for the desktop app).

Potential Problems and Solutions

Switching back isn’t always seamless. Here are some common issues you might encounter:

Classic Outlook Looks Different Than You Remember: Microsoft continues to update the Classic Outlook interface, so it might not be exactly as you left it.
Features Are Missing: Some features introduced in the “New” Outlook might not be available in the Classic version.
Synchronization Issues: Occasionally, switching back can cause temporary synchronization problems. Ensure your account settings are correct and restart Outlook.
Performance Problems: If you experience performance issues after switching back, try repairing your Outlook installation or creating a new Outlook profile.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about switching back to Classic Outlook:

1. Why would someone want to switch back to Classic Outlook?

Many users prefer Classic Outlook due to its familiar interface, streamlined features, and perceived stability. Some also find the “New” Outlook to be resource-intensive or lacking in certain functionalities they rely on.

2. Is Classic Outlook going away permanently?

Eventually, yes. Microsoft is pushing users towards the “New” Outlook. However, they haven’t announced a definitive end-of-life date for Classic Outlook yet. The switchback option is a temporary measure during this transition.

3. What are the main differences between Classic and New Outlook?

The “New” Outlook features a redesigned interface, improved search functionality, tighter integration with Microsoft 365 services, and enhanced collaboration tools. It aims for a more modern and unified experience. However, Classic Outlook focuses on simplicity and is often favored for its robust email management features.

4. How do I repair my Outlook installation?

To repair Outlook, go to Control Panel -> Programs -> Programs and Features. Find Microsoft Office (or Microsoft 365) in the list, select it, and click “Change”. Choose the “Quick Repair” or “Online Repair” option.

5. How do I create a new Outlook profile?

In the Control Panel, search for “Mail”. Click on “Mail (Microsoft Outlook 2016)” or a similar option. In the Mail Setup dialog, click “Show Profiles…” and then “Add…”. Follow the prompts to create a new profile.

6. Will my emails and contacts be affected by switching back?

No, switching back to Classic Outlook should not delete or alter your emails, contacts, or calendar entries. These are stored on the mail server and are accessible regardless of which Outlook version you’re using.

7. Can I use both Classic and New Outlook side-by-side?

No, you cannot run both versions of Outlook simultaneously on the same computer with the same account. Switching requires closing and relaunching the application.

8. What if I don’t see the “Try the new Outlook” toggle?

As mentioned earlier, the absence of the toggle could be due to IT policies, temporary removal by Microsoft, or account configuration issues. Check with your IT department, try clearing your browser cache (for OWA), or repair your Outlook installation.

9. Is there a way to customize the New Outlook to look more like the Classic version?

While you cannot completely replicate the Classic Outlook interface, you can customize certain aspects of the New Outlook, such as the reading pane layout, folder pane options, and quick access toolbar, to make it more closely resemble the Classic version.

10. Where can I provide feedback about the New Outlook to Microsoft?

Microsoft actively seeks user feedback. You can provide feedback through the built-in feedback mechanisms within the New Outlook application itself (usually found under the “Help” menu or through a dedicated “Feedback” button). You can also provide feedback on Microsoft’s official support forums.

11. Will add-ins work in both Classic and New Outlook?

Not necessarily. Some add-ins may not be compatible with the New Outlook and may require updates or alternative versions. Check with the add-in developer for compatibility information.

12. Are there any specific features missing in the New Outlook compared to the Classic version?

Some users report that certain advanced features, such as specific email rules options or advanced search filters, are missing or less robust in the New Outlook. However, Microsoft is continuously adding new features and functionalities to the New Outlook based on user feedback.

The journey back to Classic Outlook might require a bit of detective work, but armed with this guide, you’re well-equipped to navigate the process and reclaim the Outlook experience you prefer. Remember to stay informed about updates from Microsoft, as the landscape can change. Good luck!