How to Change Quick Access Toolbar Icons to Colored in Office for Mac
Question details
The user wants to change the default white command icons on the top toolbar to colored icons in Microsoft Office for Mac.
- Product
- Microsoft Office for Mac
- Device & OS
- Mac
- Scenario
- Customizing the appearance of the top toolbar in Word and Excel on a Mac.
- Observed behavior
- The Quick Access Toolbar (commands fixed at the top) displays white, colorless icons instead of the colored icons seen in the Windows version.
Note that the user interface design of Microsoft Office varies slightly between macOS and Windows platforms, specifically concerning system-level toolbar styling and OS integration.
Understand Mac Office Design Specifications and Submit Feedback
The white icons on the Quick Access Toolbar are a permanent design choice by Microsoft for macOS to match the native Apple aesthetic. While you cannot change them natively, you can submit feedback to Microsoft.
In Office for Mac (including the 2019 version and Microsoft 365), the Quick Access Toolbar is integrated into the macOS window frame. To comply with Apple's human interface guidelines, Microsoft opted for a clean, monochrome (white) icon design.
Because this is a hardcoded design specification, there are no built-in settings, preferences, or toggle switches to change these top command icons to the colored versions seen on Windows.
Launch your Microsoft Office for Mac application (e.g., Word or Excel) and open any blank document.
Navigate to the top macOS menu bar and click on the 'Help' tab.
Click on 'Feedback' or 'Send Feedback' from the dropdown menu to open the Microsoft feedback portal.
Choose the 'I Have a Suggestion' option and politely describe your request to have colored icons available for the Quick Access Toolbar on Mac.
Experience a Customizable and Familiar Interface with WPS Office
If you prefer a highly customizable, colorful, and intuitive interface similar to what you are used to on Windows, consider switching to WPS Office for Mac. It provides a lightweight, free alternative with excellent document compatibility and a user-friendly layout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a third-party add-in to change the toolbar icons in Office for Mac?
No, Microsoft Office for Mac does not support third-party add-ins or themes that modify the core user interface or Quick Access Toolbar icon colors.
Why are the ribbon icons colored but the top toolbar is white?
The ribbon tabs are part of the application's specific workspace and feature colored icons for usability. The Quick Access Toolbar resides in the system window title bar area, which adheres to Apple's monochrome design guidelines.
Will upgrading to a newer version of Office for Mac give me colored icons?
As of the latest Office for Mac versions (including Microsoft 365), the Quick Access Toolbar icons remain white by design. Upgrading to a newer version will not change this specific UI behavior.
