If you’ve been toggling between an old friend (Classic Outlook) and a shiny upstart (New Outlook), you're not alone. Microsoft's new Outlook app has made significant improvements since its 2023 debut, but let’s face it—not everyone is ready to jump ship on the Classic Outlook experience. The good news? Microsoft has made it possible for you to switch between these two setups with relative ease, depending on your tolerance for user interface experimentation. Hang tight as we dive into the how-tos, pros, cons, and a bit of tech philosophy around this classic-versus-new showdown.
The new Outlook (often referred to simply as "New Outlook") was rolled out as part of Microsoft's big push to modernize its email service offerings. Designed to unify the features found in both the desktop app and Outlook Online, New Outlook boasts a sleeker interface, smart integrations with Microsoft 365, and enhanced collaboration tools. The cherry on top? Newer features unavailable in Classic Outlook, like dynamic previews and smarter email organization.
But let’s not put all our eggs in one beta basket, as the New Outlook still struggles with incomplete features and some tricky usability quirks. That's why Microsoft lets you straddle both worlds, switching back to Classic Outlook any time day or night.
Will it be love at first site (or sight) by 2025? It's hard to say, but for now—having both Classic and New Outlook at your fingertips lets you be the one calling the shots.
So, which version have you settled on? Are you riding the nostalgia train with Classic, or dipping your toes into the future with New Outlook? Drop your thoughts in the forum discussion—we’re here to geek out with you!
Source: How-To Geek How to Swap Between Outlook (Classic) and New Outlook
What's the Buzz About New Outlook?
The new Outlook (often referred to simply as "New Outlook") was rolled out as part of Microsoft's big push to modernize its email service offerings. Designed to unify the features found in both the desktop app and Outlook Online, New Outlook boasts a sleeker interface, smart integrations with Microsoft 365, and enhanced collaboration tools. The cherry on top? Newer features unavailable in Classic Outlook, like dynamic previews and smarter email organization.But let’s not put all our eggs in one beta basket, as the New Outlook still struggles with incomplete features and some tricky usability quirks. That's why Microsoft lets you straddle both worlds, switching back to Classic Outlook any time day or night.
How to Switch Back to Classic Outlook
If you find yourself longing for the familiarity of Classic Outlook over the New Outlook metaphorically asking for “feedback” every two minutes—here’s your rescue plan:Step-by-Step Guide to Reclaim Classic Outlook
- Download Classic Outlook (if not already installed):
- Visit the Microsoft Store and download the “Outlook for Windows (classic)” version onto your device.
- Launch Outlook Classic:
- Once it’s installed, open Outlook and disable the modern layout. Look for the toggle in the top-right corner labeled "New Outlook."
- Confirm the Change:
- A pop-up may appear, requesting you provide feedback on why you’re switching back. Feel free to click "Skip Feedback" at the bottom of the box (you’re a busy person!).
- No Toggle? No Problem:
- If the "New Outlook" toggle isn’t visible, click on the Help tab at the top of your Outlook window.
- From the dropdown menu, select Go to Classic Outlook.
- Restart Outlook:
- After selecting your preferred version, restart the application to ensure the transition fully applies.
Pro-Tip: Keep Both Versions!
For the indecisive (or the pragmatist), you can maintain both Classic and New Outlook installed on the same device. Dual deployment lets you enjoy the best of both worlds without breaking a sweat—or missing an important email.Switching Back to New Outlook
Wait! Before you turn Classic Outlook into the one true champ, remember that New Outlook has its perks too:- Open up Classic Outlook and look for the "Try the New Outlook" toggle in the top-right corner.
- Click it, select Switch, and you're back to New Outlook with its swanky design and experimental features.
Classic vs. New Outlook: Clash of the Titans
Each version trades punches in certain categories. Let’s break down the pros and cons:Classic Outlook
Pros:
- Familiar interface with a robust feature set.
- Compatibility with older extensions and business workflows.
- Widely recognized reliability for enterprise environments.
Cons:
- Aging design that doesn’t mesh well with modern apps.
- Lacks newer productivity features like AI-based email categorization.
New Outlook
Pros:
- Faster, cleaner, and more modern GUI (Graphical User Interface).
- Enhanced integration with Microsoft 365, including Teams and OneDrive.
- Smart email features like sweep, snooze, and dynamic previews.
Cons:
- Several features are still missing compared to Classic.
- Occasional bugs and performance issues, as it continues to evolve.
Why the Option to Switch Matters
The ability to toggle between Classic Outlook and New Outlook is more than just a feature—it’s a lifeline for productivity. Software habit migrates slower than turtles in peanut butter, and transitioning to new interfaces can disrupt workflows. By retaining the option to switch, Microsoft gives users—especially businesses—time to adapt without forcing an abrupt paradigm shift.The Bigger Picture: Evolution of Email Clients
This apparent divide between Old and New Outlook shines light on a broader trend: the modernization of email clients. We’re seeing legacy software make way for streamlined, cloud-centric tools designed to better integrate with workflows that tightly pair services like storage, collaboration, and communication all under one digital roof. New Outlook attempts to ride this wave, but its transitional flaws make the story far from over.Will it be love at first site (or sight) by 2025? It's hard to say, but for now—having both Classic and New Outlook at your fingertips lets you be the one calling the shots.
Closing Thoughts
Whether you’re rocking the old-school design or exploring the latest innovations, your email is a critical tool for managing your life and work. Microsoft knows this—which is why they’ve made switching between Classic and New Outlook a relatively painless process. If you haven’t tried the New Outlook yet, it’s worth a spin to glimpse the future while keeping a trusty lifeboat nearby in Classic Outlook.So, which version have you settled on? Are you riding the nostalgia train with Classic, or dipping your toes into the future with New Outlook? Drop your thoughts in the forum discussion—we’re here to geek out with you!
Source: How-To Geek How to Swap Between Outlook (Classic) and New Outlook
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