Related topics
×
Sign in with Microsoft
Sign in or create an account.
Hello,
Select a different account.
You have multiple accounts
Choose the account you want to sign in with.

How you display the total number of messages in a folder depends on which version of Outlook you're using. Select the tab below for your version of Outlook.

Important: Steps may be different between new and classic Outlook for Windows. To determine which version of Outlook you're using, look for File on the ribbon. If there's no File option, follow the steps under the New Outlook tab. If the File option appears, select the tab for Classic Outlook.

Note: If the steps under this New Outlook tab don't work, you may not be using new Outlook for Windows yet. Select Classic Outlook and follow those steps instead.

By default, most folders in Outlook display the number of unread messages after the name of the folder. To display the total number of messages, you can do either of the following: 

When you hover over a folder    
Shows the total number of messages in the folder, followed by unread messages in parentheses.

A screenshot of the hover message showing the number of messages in a folder.

When you right-click a folder    
The first item on the menu shows the number of messages, followed by unread items in parentheses.

Screenshot showing the menu when right-clicking a folder

Tip: These steps also work in web-based versions of Outlook.

The steps above also apply to folders under Favorites, and with Search and Archive folders. However, the folder display option isn't available with Groups.

Drafts, Notes, and Junk folders each display the total number of messages by default.

By default, most folders in Outlook display the number of unread items in parentheses after the name of the folder. You can change a folder to display the total number of messages in the folder, (which will include both read and unread messages).

Note: The Drafts and Junk E-mail folders, and the For Follow Up Search Folder each display the total number of items by default.

To display the total number of items in a folder, do the following:

  1. Right-click a folder, and then select Properties.

  2. On the General tab, select Show total number of items.

Multiple folders can't be changed at the same time. Repeat these steps for each folder you want to change.

Note: This setting also applies to folders in Favorites. For example, if you set Inbox to show the total number of messages, the setting applies to the Inbox both in Favorites and in the Folder list.

Need more help?

Want more options?

Explore subscription benefits, browse training courses, learn how to secure your device, and more.

Communities help you ask and answer questions, give feedback, and hear from experts with rich knowledge.

Was this information helpful?

What affected your experience?
By pressing submit, your feedback will be used to improve Microsoft products and services. Your IT admin will be able to collect this data. Privacy Statement.

Thank you for your feedback!

×