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How to Show the Ribbon in Outlook 2021 and Windows Mail
Question details
The user needs to restore the missing ribbon interface in their email application and wants to locate their PST data files.
- Product
- Microsoft Outlook 2021 and Windows Mail
- Device & OS
- Windows 10 / Windows 11
- Scenario
- Setting up a new Windows laptop and trying to access familiar email tools and saved data files.
- Observed behavior
- The standard ribbon and toolbars are missing, and no local PST data files can be found, likely due to confusion between the lightweight Windows Mail app and the full desktop Outlook application.
Verify which email application you have opened. The built-in Windows Mail app features a minimalist interface without a traditional ribbon, whereas the desktop version of Outlook 2021 includes the full, customizable ribbon.
Restore and Pin the Ribbon in Outlook 2021 Desktop
Use this solution if you are running the full desktop version of Microsoft Outlook and the ribbon is hidden or collapsed.
By default, Office applications can collapse the ribbon to save screen space. You can easily toggle it back to stay permanently visible.
Click on any main tab at the top of the Outlook window, such as 'Home' or 'Send/Receive', to drop down the ribbon temporarily.
Double-click the tab name to lock the ribbon in place. It will change from 'Show Tabs Only' to 'Always Show Ribbon'.
Alternatively, look for the Ribbon Display Options icon (a small downward arrow or pin icon) at the bottom-right corner of the expanded ribbon and select 'Always Show Ribbon'.
Identify if You Are Using Windows Mail Instead of Outlook
Use this solution to understand why your application lacks a ribbon and PST files.
Looking for a Complete Office Suite? Try WPS Office
While email management requires a dedicated client like Outlook, WPS Office provides a powerful, free alternative for Word, Excel, and PowerPoint documents. It features a familiar ribbon interface, making it easy to use without a steep learning curve.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Get the free installation package from the official WPS website.
- 2. Install and Launch: Run the installer and open WPS Office to access Writer, Spreadsheet, or Presentation.
- 3. Use the Familiar Ribbon: Enjoy a standard, fully visible ribbon toolbar right out of the box for seamless editing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Outlook ribbon suddenly missing?
You may have accidentally collapsed the ribbon or switched your view settings to 'Show Tabs Only'. Clicking on any tab like 'Home' and then clicking the pin icon on the right side of the ribbon will lock it back in place.
Where is the PST file located in the Windows Mail app?
The Windows Mail app does not use PST data files. It is a lightweight client that synchronizes directly with online servers (like IMAP or Exchange) rather than storing local offline archives like desktop Outlook does.
Can I get the Outlook desktop app for free on my new laptop?
The full desktop version of Outlook 2021 is not free; it requires a one-time purchase of Office 2021 or a Microsoft 365 subscription. If you do not have a license, you can use the built-in Windows Mail app or Outlook on the web at no cost.
How do I access the ribbon in Outlook on the web?
Outlook on the web uses a simplified, modern toolbar rather than the classic desktop ribbon. Most formatting options will appear directly above or below the reading pane when you compose a new email.
