If you want to switch back to the classic Facebook page layout, there are a few easy steps you can take. The classic Facebook layout provides a simple, no-frills experience that many longtime users prefer. Here’s what you need to know about reverting to the classic Facebook page.
What is the Classic Facebook Layout?
The classic Facebook layout refers to the basic Facebook interface that was in place for many years. It features a clean, minimalist design with a blue header bar, white background, and simple left-hand sidebar for navigation. This layout focuses on core Facebook functionality like your news feed, groups, events, and friends list without extra bells and whistles.
In contrast, the new Facebook layout introduced in 2020 has more visual elements, a darker color scheme, and additional tabs like Marketplace and Watch. For users who want a streamlined experience to check updates and connect with friends, the classic layout is often preferred.
Key Features of the Classic Facebook Layout
- Blue header bar across the top
- Clean white background
- Left sidebar with navigation links
- Middle column with news feed
- Right column with friends list and chat
- Focus on core functions like news feed, groups, and friends
- No extra tabs like Watch or Gaming
How to Switch Back to the Classic Facebook Layout
If you want to revert to the old Facebook format, it just takes a few simple steps. Here is how to switch back to the classic Facebook layout on desktop and mobile:
On Desktop
- Click the down arrow in the top right corner
- Select “Switch to Classic Facebook” in the dropdown menu
- Click “Okay” on the confirmation pop-up window
- The page will refresh to the classic desktop layout
On Mobile
- Tap the three-line menu button in the bottom right
- Scroll down and tap “Settings & Privacy”
- Tap “Settings”
- Tap “Account Ownership and Control”
- Tap “Switch to Classic Facebook”
- Tap “Okay” to confirm
Once you confirm the switch, you will now see the classic Facebook page layout on that device going forward whenever you log into your Facebook account.
Customizing Classic Facebook Settings
After enabling the classic layout, you may want to customize your settings further to optimize the classic Facebook format. Here are some options to consider:
Simplifying the Left Sidebar
The left sidebar on classic Facebook shows your navigation links by default. You can simplify it by:
- Unchecking boxes to hide any unwanted links
- Collapsing sections like “Explore” to save space
Removing Right Column Clutter
The right column shows the friends chat by default. For a cleaner look, you can:
- Minimize the friends chat box
- Hide the ticker showing friend activity
Adjusting News Feed Preferences
To optimize your news feed in the classic view:
- Prioritize friends and family by adjusting the relevance slider
- Unfollow groups or pages to reduce clutter
- Sort feed by most recent instead of top stories
Take time to customize these and other settings to suit your preferences in the classic layout.
Pros and Cons of the Classic Facebook Layout
Should you switch back to the classic Facebook format? Here are some key pros and cons to weigh:
Pros
- Simple, easy-to-use interface
- Cleaner look without extra tabs or visual clutter
- Puts focus on connecting with friends and family
- Avoids constantly changing layouts and new features
- Provides a nostalgic experience for long-time users
Cons
- Lacks newer features like Facebook Watch or Marketplace
- May feel outdated or boring to some users
- Reduced ability to discover new content and features
- Less visual customization and personalization
Overall, the classic layout focuses on the core Facebook experience for those who want a simple, no-frills interface. But it lacks the constant updates and new functionality added over the years. Evaluate your personal preferences to decide if switching back makes sense.
Troubleshooting Tips
In most cases, reverting to the classic Facebook layout is quick and easy. But here are some troubleshooting tips for common issues:
Can’t Find “Switch to Classic” Option
- Make sure your app and desktop site are updated to the latest version
- The option sometimes is temporarily hidden after updates before reappearing shortly after
- Try searching online for the switch option or asking Facebook support
Classic Layout Reverted Back to New Layout
- This can happen if you log out or use Facebook in multiple browsers
- Just repeat the steps above to switch back again
- May need to select the option in all browsers/devices you use
Missing Certain Features in Classic View
- Some newer features don’t show up, like Facebook Watch tabs
- Can access some features by navigating to that specific page
- But classic view prioritizes core functions over newer add-ons
Conclusion
The classic Facebook layout provides a nostalgic, simplified interface focusing on connecting with friends and family. If the newer Facebook feels cluttered or overwhelming, switching back to the classic view can help refocus the social media experience.
Reverting takes just a few quick steps on both desktop and mobile. Customize your settings like the left sidebar and news feed to optimize the classic format. While it lacks some newer features, the classic Facebook layout serves up that old-school, clean, and easy-to-use experience many users still love.