How to disable replying in Reading Pane in Outlook?

Author: Kelly Last Modified: 2025-02-28

By default, when replying to or forwarding an email in Microsoft Outlook, the RE: Message window is embedded within the Reading Pane instead of opening in a separate window. While this feature may be convenient for quick replies, some users prefer to always pop out replies for better visibility, easier editing, or to prevent accidental modifications. This guide will show you two ways to disable replying in the Reading Pane:

screenshot of disabling replying and reading pane in outlook

Method 1: Manually pop out the reply window for a single email

Method 2: Automatically open all replies and forwards in a separate window

Method 1: Manually pop out the reply window for a single email

If you want to open the reply message in a separate window only for a specific email, follow these steps:

1. Open Outlook and select the email you want to reply to. Click Reply or Reply All.

2. In the embedded reply window (inside the Reading Pane), click the Pop Out button at the top-left corner.

screenshot of disabling replying and reading pane for current email message

The reply message will now open in a separate window, allowing for easier editing and formatting.

Pros and Cons of Method 1:

✅ Gives flexibility: You can choose when to pop out the reply window.
✅ No permanent changes: The default setting remains unchanged.
❌ Requires extra clicks: You must manually pop out the window each time.
❌ Easy to forget: If you prefer replying in a separate window, you may forget to do it manually.

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Method 2: Automatically open all replies and forwards in a separate window

To permanently disable replying in the Reading Pane and ensure that all replies and forwards automatically open in a new window, follow these steps:

1. Click File > Options in Outlook.

2. In the Outlook Options window, select Mail from the left panel.

3. Scroll down to the Replies and forwards section.

4. Check the box for "Open replies and forwards in a new window."

5. Click OK to save your changes.

screenshot of disabling replying and reading pane for all email message

From now on, every time you reply to or forward an email, Outlook will automatically open a separate RE: Message window instead of embedding it in the Reading Pane.

Pros and Cons of Method 2:

✅ Convenient for frequent users: Every reply automatically opens in a dedicated window.
✅ Better editing experience: More space for composing and formatting messages.
❌ No option to reply inside the Reading Pane: Unless you manually change the setting back.
❌ May not be necessary for short replies: A separate window may feel excessive for quick responses.