Office Settings & Configuration

How to Return to Classic Outlook from New Outlook for Windows

Kushani Nimanthika Sep 28, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to revert the Microsoft Outlook interface from the 'New' version back to the 'Classic' version on Windows.

How to Switch Back to Classic Outlook from New Outlook for Windows

Product: Microsoft Outlook
Device & OS: Windows
Scenario: Switching between email client interfaces after an update or trial of the new Outlook experience.
Observed behavior: The system currently displays the New Outlook interface, and the user prefers the layout and features of the Classic Outlook.

Before you start

Before making changes, ensure your current email drafts are saved. If you plan to modify the Windows Registry, create a registry backup to prevent unintended system issues.

Solution 1Recommended

Use the Built-in 'New Outlook' Toggle

The quickest and safest method to switch back to the classic interface using the provided toggle switch.

Microsoft includes a built-in toggle for users who wish to easily switch back and forth between the classic and new Outlook layouts.

Open New Outlook

Launch the New Outlook application on your Windows computer.

Locate the toggle switch

Look in the upper-right corner of the application window for a toggle labeled 'New Outlook'.

Turn off the toggle

Click the toggle switch to turn it off.

Restart Outlook

Follow the prompt to automatically restart the application, which will now open in the Classic Outlook interface.

Solution 2

Launch Classic Outlook from the Start Menu

Use this method if the toggle button is missing from your New Outlook interface.

Solution 3

Modify the Windows Registry

A technical workaround for advanced users if standard options are unavailable or blocked.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Will I lose my emails if I switch back to Classic Outlook?

No, your emails, contacts, and calendar events are synchronized with your email server. Switching between the New and Classic interfaces only changes the visual layout, and no data will be lost.

Why is the 'New Outlook' toggle missing from my interface?

The toggle might be missing if your organization's IT administrator has restricted the ability to switch versions, or if you installed a specific Windows update that hides it. In such cases, use the Windows Start menu to launch Classic Outlook manually.

Can I use both New Outlook and Classic Outlook on the same computer?

Yes, both versions can coexist on your Windows device. You can launch them independently by selecting their respective icons from the Windows Start menu.

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