Fix Missing Font List Scrollbar in Word and Excel
Question details
Users are unable to see or use the scrollbar and scroll-button borders when opening the font picker dropdown in Microsoft Word and Excel.
- Product
- Microsoft Word and Excel
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to browse and select different fonts using the Ribbon Font Picker dropdown menu.
- Observed behavior
- The scrollbar or scroll-button borders in the font list disappear, making it difficult to navigate the available fonts visually.
Check your current Microsoft Office version by navigating to File > Account. Ensure your device is connected to the internet so it can detect and download the latest software updates.
Update Microsoft Office to Version 2209 or Later
The missing font list scrollbar is a known interface bug that was officially addressed by Microsoft in Office version 2209.
Microsoft frequently rolls out patches to fix UI glitches. The issue with missing borders on the scroll buttons in the Ribbon Font Picker dropdown was specifically targeted in the version 2209 update.
Launch Microsoft Word or Excel, click on 'File' in the top-left corner of the screen, and select 'Account' from the bottom left menu.
Under the 'Product Information' section, click the 'Update Options' button located next to Office Updates.
Select 'Update Now' from the dropdown menu. Allow Microsoft Office to download and install any pending updates.
Once the update process is complete, restart Word or Excel and click the Font dropdown to confirm the scrollbar has returned.
Use Keyboard Navigation as a Temporary Workaround
If you cannot update Office immediately, you can easily bypass the missing scrollbar by utilizing keyboard shortcuts to select your fonts.
Switch to WPS Office for a Stable, Bug-Free Experience
If you are frustrated by missing scrollbars and waiting for interface bug fixes in Microsoft Office, try WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible, and completely free alternative with a flawless, familiar user interface.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free installer for your operating system.
- 2. Install the Software: Run the setup file and follow the straightforward on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
- 3. Open Your Documents: Right-click your existing Word or Excel files and choose 'Open with WPS Office' to continue working without interface bugs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the main document scrollbar disappear in Microsoft Word?
Unlike the font list scrollbar bug, Microsoft considers the disappearing main document scrollbar to be a 'by design' feature intended to save screen space. Some users rely on third-party solutions, like AutoHotkey scripts, to prevent the document scrollbar from hiding automatically.
Why isn't the version 2209 update showing up on my computer?
Microsoft rolls out updates gradually through different channels. Version 2209 was first released to the Insider channel. If you are on a standard channel, you may need to wait slightly longer for the broader release to become available for your specific installation.
Does this missing scrollbar issue affect other Office applications?
While primarily reported for Word and Excel, UI bugs in the shared Microsoft Office Ribbon can occasionally affect other apps like PowerPoint. Updating your Office suite to version 2209 or later will apply the font picker fix across all applicable applications.
