How to Use Pop-Out Window in Outlook for Windows 11

The Outlook for Windows app provides a modern way to manage your emails, whether you use Outlook.com, Hotmail, or Gmail. By default, Outlook displays emails inside the main app window. However, you can use the Outlook pop-out window feature to detach your messages into separate windows for better multitasking.

Why use a pop-out window?

Using a separate window helps you focus on your writing without distractions from your inbox. It gives you more space to type and makes it easier to look at other emails at the same time. It also prevents you from losing your draft if you accidentally close the main Outlook window.

What happens when done?

Once you change this setting, every time you click to write, reply, or forward an email, Outlook will launch a new, dedicated window for that message instead of keeping it inside the main app.

Classic Outlook vs. New Outlook UI Differences

The New Outlook for Windows and Classic Outlook handle windows differently. In the Classic version, you often have a dedicated pop-out icon in the top right of the reading pane. In the New Outlook, the interface is more streamlined, and some settings are hidden within the Compose and reply menu. Understanding these interface settings is key to managing your workflow effectively.

How to Enable Pop-Out Windows

1. Open the Outlook app on your Windows 11 computer.

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3. Click the Settings button (the gear icon) located at the top right corner.

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5. On the Settings menu, click the Mail tab on the left.
6. Select Compose and reply on the right side.
7. If you have more than one email account, choose the specific account you want to change.

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9. Scroll down to the Pop-out settings section.
10. Select the option labeled Pop-out to a new window.
11. Save your changes to finish.

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Keyboard Shortcuts for Popping Out Emails

You can quickly detach an email without digging through menus. Use these shortcuts:

• Ctrl + O: When an email is selected, this shortcut opens it in a new window.
• Double-click: Simply double-clicking an email in your list will open it in a separate window if your settings are configured correctly.

Troubleshooting Missing Pop-Out Buttons

If the button is missing, verify your Microsoft 365 account sync status. Sometimes, a corrupted cache in C:\Users\GenericUser\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Outlook can cause UI elements to disappear. Note: Clearing app data may require admin privileges if the files are locked by the system.

Summary

By default, Outlook keeps your email drafts inside the main program. By following the steps above, you can force Outlook to open your emails in a separate window. This simple change allows for better multitasking and a more organized workspace. For more tips, check out our Outlook productivity guide.