How to change default font in Outlook depends on which version you use. In classic Outlook for Windows, go to File > Options > Mail > Stationery and Fonts and set the font for new messages, replies, and plain text. In new Outlook, Outlook on the web, and Outlook for Mac, the setting lives in the compose or signatures area. Here is each path, followed by how to change font in Outlook for a single message.
How to change default font in Outlook: which version do you have?
Microsoft now ships several versions, and menus differ. Use this table to find yours.
| Version | How to recognize it | Where the font setting is |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Outlook for Windows | Has a File tab and a ribbon with Home, Send/Receive, View | File > Options > Mail > Stationery and Fonts |
| New Outlook for Windows | Has a “New Outlook” toggle, simpler ribbon, no File tab | Settings (gear) > Mail > Compose and reply |
| Outlook on the web | Runs in a browser | Settings > Mail > Compose and reply |
| Outlook for Mac | Mac menu bar with Outlook, File, Edit | Outlook > Settings (or Preferences) > Fonts |
Menu names can change as Microsoft updates the apps, so if a label looks slightly different, look for the closest match. Microsoft documents these settings on its Outlook support pages.
Classic Outlook for Windows
Set the default font for new messages
- Click File, then Options.
- Select Mail in the left list.
- Under Compose messages, click Stationery and Fonts.
- On the Personal Stationery tab, under New mail messages, click Font.
- Choose the font, style, size, and color, then click OK.
Change replies, forwards, and plain text
On the same screen, use the separate Font buttons under Replying or forwarding messages and Composing and reading plain text messages. Click OK twice to save. New messages will use the new settings; messages already written keep their old formatting.
If the font will not stick
- Check whether a theme or stationery is selected on the same tab, because it can override your choice. Set the theme to none if needed.
- Replies to HTML emails may keep the sender’s formatting. Setting your reply font helps, but not always.
- A company policy or add-in on a work account can override defaults. Ask your IT team if the setting resets itself.
New Outlook for Windows and Outlook on the web
The newer apps use a simpler layout. Fonts are set in compose options.
- Select the Settings gear in the top right.
- Choose Mail, then Compose and reply.
- Under Message format, pick a font, size, and style (bold, italic, underline, color).
- Click Save.
This sets the default for new messages and replies. Because the web and new Outlook interfaces are updated often, your menu may show a few extra options, but the Compose and reply area is where the font lives.
Outlook for Mac
- Open Outlook, then click Outlook in the menu bar and choose Settings (older versions say Preferences).
- Under Email, click Fonts.
- Next to New Mail, Reply or forward, or Plain text, click Font (or the font name box) and choose your style.
- Close the window to save.
If you do not see Fonts, you may be running the new Outlook for Mac. In that case, check the compose settings in the Settings window instead.
How to change font in Outlook for one email
If you only want a different look once, you do not need to change the default.
- Open a new message and make sure you are in HTML format (in classic Outlook, check the Format Text tab).
- Select the text you want to change.
- Use the font and size boxes on the Message tab or formatting toolbar.
Plain text messages cannot hold custom fonts. They are shown in the reader’s own default font.
Picking a font that works for email
Your recipient only sees your font if it is installed on their device; otherwise their mail app substitutes something else. That is why safe choices such as Arial, Calibri, Georgia, and Verdana are still common in business email. If you love a particular typeface, use it for attachments or images rather than the body. Our guides on what font a resume should be and what font size a resume should be includes readable, professional options that translate well to email too. For decorative or personal use, browse modern fonts or free fonts, and for signatures, a restrained choice from handwritten fonts can add personality when used sparingly.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the default font setting in Outlook?
In classic Outlook for Windows it is File > Options > Mail > Stationery and Fonts. In new Outlook and Outlook on the web, open Settings > Mail > Compose and reply. On Mac, go to Outlook > Settings > Fonts.
Why does Outlook keep reverting to another font?
A theme, stationery, plain text mode, or a company policy may override your choice. Check those settings, and ask IT if your account is managed.
Will the new default font change old emails?
No. It applies to new messages and replies you write after saving the setting.
Can I use any font installed on my computer in Outlook?
You can choose any installed font, but recipients without it will see a substitute. Stick to widely available fonts for important emails.
How do I change the font in Outlook for a signature?
Open the signature editor (Signatures in your mail settings), select the signature text, and use its font controls to change the typeface and size.
