2 Ways to Fix Outlook Receiving Late Emails on Windows 11

Quick Tips

• While often it may be a sign of server or internet problems, repairing Outlook will be efficient for continued instances of the problem.
• For some users, the problem may be a sign of inadequate storage on the computer.

Basic Fixes:

• Check the Internet connection and Outlook server status: If you work with a sketchy Internet connection on your laptop, you may face delays in receiving emails on Outlook. You can also head to Downdetector and search for your email provider to confirm the server is not down.
• Keep Outlook open in the background: Unlike the default Mail app, the Outlook desktop app doesn’t sync new emails when closed. You must keep it open in the background to receive instant email alerts.
• Update Outlook: An outdated app may be the cause, so navigate to File > Office Account > expand Update > click Update Now.
• Remove unnecessary add-ons: A corrupted add-on may cause a delay. You may remove add-ons by navigating to File > Options > Add-ins > click on your add-on > Remove.  

Fix 1: Repair Outlook

Outlook comes with an online repair function that may help you fix delays in incoming emails. To use this repair, follow the steps below.

Step 1: Press Windows + R, type appwiz.cpl, and click Enter.

Step 2: Click Microsoft Office or Microsoft 365 > click Change.

Step 3: Select Online repair > click the Repair button.

Fix 2: Optimize PC Drives and Make Space for Outlook Data

Large PST files may affect your day-to-day Outlook experience. You may need to compress them using the steps below.

Step 1: Press the Windows key > search for Defragment and Optimize Drives > open it.

Step 2: Select a drive and click Optimize.

After completing the process, restart the PC and try using Outlook again. You will receive instant emails.  

Alternatively, you may use the built-in Windows 11 Storage Sense to clear storage and ensure adequate space for Outlook.

Step 1: Press the Windows + I keyboard shortcut to open Settings.

Step 2: Select System from the sidebar > open the Storage menu.

Step 3: Check the space on your current drive.

From the same menu, you can remove temporary files and pictures, check cleanup recommendations, and get your precious space back. You can also enable Storage Sense toggle to automatically free up space on Windows.