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To use Outlook on a Windows 11 PC, first identify whether you have new Outlook or classic Outlook; their setup and controls differ. New Outlook can be available preinstalled on eligible PCs, downloaded from the Microsoft Store, or opened by switching from a supported Outlook or Windows Mail app. Then add your email account and use the navigation bar, ribbon, and Settings gear to reach mail, calendar, contacts, and other everyday tools.
Choose the Outlook version you have
Windows 11 does not guarantee that every user has the same Outlook app or sees the same controls. Microsoft documents three ways to start using new Outlook: use it preinstalled on an eligible Windows 11 device, download it from the Microsoft Store, or enable the “Try the new Outlook” option in a supported Outlook or Windows Mail app. The switch may not appear if the app or account is unsupported, or if an organization administrator has blocked access. See Microsoft’s new Outlook startup guidance.
If the instructions you find do not match your screen, check the app name and version before troubleshooting. Classic Outlook and new Outlook are distinct apps; a Windows Mail app is different from both.
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Set up an email account in new Outlook
- Open new Outlook. If prompted, sign in or start the setup process.
- Open Settings or Account info, then go to Accounts > Your accounts.
- Select Add Account and follow the prompts to sign in to the account you want to use.
- If sign-in does not complete, check whether your email provider requires a setting change on its own website. Microsoft specifically notes this may be needed for providers such as Gmail, Yahoo, and iCloud.
Microsoft says new Outlook supports most accounts, including personal Microsoft accounts, work or school accounts assigned by an organization administrator, and providers such as Gmail, Yahoo, and iCloud. Other accounts may connect through IMAP. Work or school administrators can control which accounts or features are available. See Microsoft’s account setup instructions and its account compatibility guidance.
#1 Best Overall
- 1.1 GHz (boost up to 2.4GHz) Intel Celeron N5030 Quad-Core
Find your way around the app
- Settings gear: Open the gear icon to change Outlook settings.
- Ribbon: Use the ribbon for commands and actions available in the current view.
- Navigation bar: Move between areas such as Calendar and Contacts.
- My Day: Get quick access to calendar or task information.
Microsoft’s getting-started guide also describes pinning and snoozing messages, scheduling email delivery, and using categories. Availability and placement can vary by app version and change over time; consult the official getting-started guide if a control is not where you expect.
Check whether new Outlook fits your work
New Outlook is a reasonable starting point for many common email accounts, but account compatibility is not the only consideration. Microsoft cautions that public-folder support is limited. If your work depends on creating, modifying, or deleting public folders, check the documented capabilities and consider whether classic Outlook better suits that workflow.
Rank #2
- 256 GB SSD of storage.
- Multitasking is easy with 16GB of RAM
- Equipped with a blazing fast Core i5 2.00 GHz processor.
For a work or school account, an administrator may determine whether new Outlook is available or which account options you can use. If you cannot switch apps or add an account, confirm the account type and ask your organization’s administrator whether access is restricted.
If you still have Windows Mail
Microsoft ended support for Windows Mail, Calendar, and People on December 31, 2024, and recommends moving to new Outlook or Outlook.com. Those apps are separate from classic Outlook. If you still call your email app “Mail,” identify the installed app before following Outlook steps. Microsoft also says locally stored items remain exportable through its documented export and import process. See Microsoft’s Windows Mail transition guidance.
Rank #3
- 14" diagonal, 1366x768 resolution, HD BrightView LED, Glossy NON-TOUCH Display
Troubleshoot account setup
- The Add Account flow does not work: Confirm whether the account is a supported type; for other accounts, check whether IMAP is available.
- Your provider rejects the sign-in: Check that provider’s website for any required account settings or sign-in changes.
- You cannot switch to new Outlook: The toggle depends on the app and account, and an organization administrator may block access. Try the supported Microsoft Store route if appropriate for your device and account.
- Instructions do not match your screen: Confirm whether you are using new Outlook, classic Outlook, or Windows Mail, then follow guidance for that app.
These checks reflect Microsoft’s published setup and availability guidance; they do not guarantee a particular account or feature will work in every organization’s configuration.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 【Efficient Performance】 Powered by Intel Core i3 processor (2 cores, 4 threads, up to 3.4GHz) with 12GB RAM and 256GB SSD. Handles multitasking, office software, online classes, and HD video streaming smoothly. Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620
- Backlit Keyboard & Complete Package】Comes with a cool backlit keyboard. Comes with awebcam, dual stereo speakers (8Ω/1.0W each), DC charger, and user manual – ready for late-night studying, online classes, video conferencing, and daily productivity
- 【Vibrant Display】 15.6-inch Full HD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with 16:9 aspect ratio delivers crisp images and vivid colors – perfect for studying, watching lectures, or entertainment. Thin-bezel design maximizes viewing area
- 【Fast Connectivity & Expansion】 Equipped with WiFi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.2 for stable, high-speed wireless. Features 3 x USB 3.0, HDMI 2.1, Type-C (supports PD3.0 fast charging), and a TF card slot expandable up to 2TB – easily connect external monitors, mice, drives, or expand storage for all your files
- 【Long Battery Life & Portable】 Built-in 11.55V 5000mAh/57.75Wh high-capacity battery delivers approximately 7 hours of mixed-use battery life – enough for a full day of classes and assignments. Lightweight at just 1.63kg (3.6 lbs) and 19.5mm thin, plus a compact packing size – easily slips into a backpack for campus, library, or coffee shop
Rank #4
- EFFORTLESS EVERYDAY PERFORMANCE: Powered by Intel Celeron N4020 processor and Windows 11 Home system, delivering reliable, low-power efficiency for daily tasks like document editing, email, online classes, and web browsing
- 15.6-INCH FULL HD DISPLAY: Enjoy immersive visuals on the 15.6" FHD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with micro-edge bezels. Delivers clear details and comfortable viewing for long study sessions, working on spreadsheets, and video playback
- RESPONSIVE MULTITASKING & STORAGE: Built with 4GB LPDDR4 RAM and 128GB eMMC storage for smooth daily essential use. Expand your storage by up to 1TB via the integrated TF card slot to easily store movies, photos, and working files
- ADVANCED CONNECTIVITY: Outfitted with 2x Full-Featured Type-C ports for data transfer, fast charging, and dual-monitor output, alongside 2x USB 3.2 Gen1 ports and a 3.5mm audio jack for complete peripheral compatibility
- LIGHTWEIGHT & SILENT OPERATION: Slim and portable for effortless travel or commuting. Features a 1MP HD webcam for remote meetings, 38Wh battery with 45W Type-C fast charging, and a fanless silent design for peaceful work environments.
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