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How to Restore the Classic Spellchecker in Word 2016 and 2019
Question details
Users want to revert to the traditional spelling and grammar checker instead of using the new Microsoft Editor feature, which frequently prompts for a paid subscription.
- Product
- Microsoft Word 2016, Word 2019
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Checking spelling and grammar in a document without being interrupted by upgrade prompts for Microsoft 365.
- Observed behavior
- The traditional spellchecker is replaced by Microsoft Editor, which stops checking after a certain limit and displays an invitation to subscribe to Microsoft 365.
Ensure you have saved your current document. If you plan to use the macro method to restore the legacy dialog, verify that the Developer tab is enabled in your Word ribbon settings.
Adjust Proofing Options and Avoid the Upgrade Prompt
Navigate Word's settings to utilize the built-in traditional proofing options while strictly avoiding the modern Editor upgrade prompts.
Recent updates to Microsoft Office pushed the modern Editor feature even to perpetual-license editions like Word 2016 and 2019. Because your version is not tied to a Microsoft 365 subscription, advanced Editor features are locked behind a paywall.
Open your document, click on the 'File' tab in the top-left corner, and select 'Options' at the bottom of the menu.
Click on 'Proofing' in the left pane. Ensure that standard options like 'Check spelling as you type' and 'Mark grammar errors as you type' are checked.
Instead of clicking the Editor button on the Review tab, right-click on misspelled words (indicated by a red squiggly line) to access the traditional context menu corrections.
Run a VBA Macro to Force the Classic Spellchecker
Use a community-trusted VBA macro script to directly call the legacy Spelling and Grammar dialog box, bypassing the Editor pane entirely.
Switch to WPS Office for Hassle-Free Spellchecking
If Microsoft Word's forced Editor updates and subscription prompts are interrupting your workflow, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible alternative with a built-in spellchecker that never forces you behind a paywall.
- 1. Download and Install: Visit the official WPS Office website to download the free installation package and follow the quick setup wizard.
- 2. Open Your Word Files: Launch WPS Writer and open your existing Word documents. Your text, formatting, and styles will look exactly as they did in Microsoft Office.
- 3. Use the Free Spellcheck: Navigate to the Review tab and click 'Spell Check' to instantly proofread your entire document without any restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Microsoft Editor replace my classic spellchecker in Word 2016?
Microsoft rolled out the Editor feature as a universal update to all supported versions of Office, pushing the modern proofing tool to perpetual-license users. However, advanced checks within the Editor are restricted to Microsoft 365 subscribers.
Will clicking 'Upgrade Editor' restore the classic spellchecker?
No. Clicking the upgrade button will direct you to a purchase page for a monthly Microsoft 365 subscription. It does not revert the interface or restore the classic features for your current Word 2016 or 2019 perpetual license.
Can I permanently disable Microsoft Editor in the settings?
Microsoft does not provide a built-in menu toggle to completely disable the Editor in recent updates. Using a VBA macro is currently the most reliable workaround to consistently force the classic spellcheck dialog to open instead.
Is there a free word processor that includes basic spellcheck without upgrade prompts?
Yes, WPS Office Writer is a free and highly compatible alternative. It includes standard, unrestricted spelling and grammar checking tools and supports all standard Microsoft Word document formats natively.
