How to Send a Plain-Text Message in Outlook

You can send messages using HTML formatting in Outlook, but not everybody wants to receive these types of emails. As an alternative, send plain-text emails that are readable by any computer and email client. Instructions in this article apply to Outlook 2019, Outlook 2016, Outlook 2013, Outlook 2010, Outlook for Microsoft 365, Outlook Online, and Outlook for Mac.

Send a Plain Text Message in Outlook

To compose and send an email using plain text in Outlook:

1. Go to the Home tab and select New Email. Or, press Ctrl+N.​

2. In the message window, go to the Format Text tab.

3. In the Format group, select Plain Text.

   You can also choose a default format for composing new messages in Outlook.

4. A warning dialog box may appear with a note that some features in the message aren't supported by plain text email. Select Continue.

5. Compose the message and select Send.

Send a Plain Text Message in Outlook Online

To send a plain text message in Outlook Online:

1. Select New message.

2. Select More Options (denoted by 3 dots), then choose Switch to plain text.

3. You may get a warning about switching to Plain text. If so, select OK to continue.

4. The formatting toolbar disappears from the message pane.

5. Compose the message and select Send.

Send a Plain Text Message in Outlook for Mac

To deliver an email message that contains only plain text using Outlook for Mac:

1. Click New Email. Or press Alt+⌘ (Command)+N.

2. In the message window, go to the Options tab.

3. In the Format Text group, turn off the HTML toggle to display Plain.

4. If you are prompted to turn off HTML formatting, click Yes.

5. ​Compose your message.

6. Send the message.