Use these email client compatibility tips to create HTML emails that remain readable across common inboxes. Mail Designer 365 helps you build a clear layout, but backgrounds, sidebars, fonts, and browser-view links still need careful testing.
Email Client Compatibility Tips: Backgrounds
Certain email programs (notably Outlook 2007 and 2010) have issues displaying several layers of backgrounds. To maximize compatibility, assume that your primary background color will show up. Make sure the font colors you choose will work with that color.
Sidebars
A sidebar layout item may not always display as intended. This is particularly true if it has a separate background color. Instead, you may want to place sidebar details in a regular layout element. This will help improve compatibility.
Choosing Fonts
We highly recommend that you stick to the "web-safe" fonts. When choosing a font within a layout block, web-safe fonts are shown in Mail Designer 365 by default. If you choose another font, then it may not display on your recipient's computer as intended.
Include a compatibility link
Export your newsletter as a HTML web page. You can include a link to it in your email, allowing readers with older email clients to read your newsletter in their browser as you intended it to be displayed.
Click File > Export as HTML.
Test your HTML email before sending
Preview the complete message on desktop and mobile, then send proofs to the inboxes your audience uses most. Check text contrast, image alternative text, link destinations, fallback background colors, and the browser-view version. These email client compatibility tips reduce surprises while keeping the message useful when images or advanced styling are unavailable.
For accessible wording and link text, review the W3C writing guidance. You can also explore more Mail Designer 365 email templates before adapting your layout.
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