Facebook has gone through many design changes over the years, with the most recent major redesign being the ‘new’ Facebook layout that was introduced in 2020. This new design features a cleaner, more modern look and feel compared to the ‘classic’ Facebook layout. However, not everyone is a fan of the new look, and many users have expressed a preference for reverting back to the classic Facebook interface. Unfortunately, Facebook removed the option to easily switch back to classic Facebook for most users. So what can you do if you want to go back to the old Facebook layout?
Why Did Facebook Get Rid of the Classic Layout?
Facebook decided to retire the classic layout in order to streamline their platform across desktop and mobile. The new design brings Facebook up to date with modern web standards and allows for a more seamless, unified experience across different devices. Additionally, the new layout makes better use of screen real estate on larger monitors. However, this means that there is no longer an official way to revert to the classic look through Facebook’s own settings.
Can I Still Switch Back to Classic Facebook?
For most users, the ability to switch back to classic Facebook was removed in 2020. However, there are still some limited circumstances where you may be able to change back to the old layout:
- If you have an older Facebook account that was created many years ago, you may still have the option to use classic Facebook hidden in your account settings. Look for a “Switch to Classic Facebook” option under Settings & Privacy > Settings. This option is only available to a small number of legacy users.
- Some browser extensions or add-ons claim they can bring back classic Facebook. These work by overriding Facebook’s design CSS to restore parts of the old layout. Results can be mixed.
- Accessing Facebook through older mobile apps may show an interface that resembles the classic desktop layout. But this is not the true original experience.
- Viewing Facebook in older or unsupported web browsers may trigger a fallback to display an interface closer to the classic design. Again, this is not an ideal solution.
Aside from the above options, most users no longer have an official way to switch back to classic Facebook. This is because the old layout relies on code and features that Facebook has removed from their platform. However, there are still some workaround alternatives to get a similar classic Facebook experience.
Workarounds to Get Classic Facebook Look and Feel
If you’re missing the classic Facebook layout, here are a few methods you can try to recapture some of that old school Facebook experience:
Use Old Layout Browser Extensions or Add-Ons
There are browser extensions available for Chrome, Firefox, and other browsers that claim they can restore parts of the classic Facebook interface when enabled. These work by overriding Facebook’s built-in CSS styling with custom styling that mimics the classic design. Results vary – some reign in Facebook’s wide new layout while restoring blue headers and the old logo. They may not be perfect recreations of the old design, but they can help if you want Facebook to feel a bit more familiar.
Adjust Facebook Feed Settings
Facebook’s feed algorithm now heavily prioritizes newer posts and sponsored content. To see more chronological posts from friends and family like the old days, go to the Feed Filter Bar and select “Most Recent.” You can also customize which friends you see posts from under Feeds Settings.
Use Old Facebook Domain
Try accessing Facebook at their old domain www.facebook.com/home.php This looks similar to the classic home page layout with the blue top navigation bar. However, it will still load the rest of the new Facebook design when navigating to other pages.
Revert to Facebook Lite
Facebook Lite is a stripped down version of Facebook for low-powered devices. On desktop, it has an interface reminiscent of classic Facebook, just more stripped down. The lightweight interface may appeal to those looking for something closer to Facebook’s roots.
Stay on Classic-Like Pages as Much as Possible
Some Facebook pages, like groups and events, still retain a more classic page layout and style. Spend more time interacting with these pagetypes to stay in familiar territory.
Key Differences Between Classic and New Facebook
Here are some of the most notable differences between classic and new Facebook that you may want to keep in mind:
| Classic Facebook | New Facebook |
|---|---|
| Blue navigation bar at the top | White navigation bar at the top |
| Chat sidebar | No chat sidebar |
| Events and Groups have classic FB styling | Events and Groups use new FB design |
| More compact, centered feed | Wider feed with more white space |
| Chronological news feed | Algorithmic news feed focused on engagement |
| Small profile and cover images | Bigger profile and cover images |
The Bottom Line
The ability to easily switch back to classic Facebook has been phased out as Facebook rolls out their new design direction. While you may get occasional glimpses of the old layout, there is no official option to revert completely. Third-party browser extensions can restore some cosmetic elements of classic Facebook, but the new layout is here to stay for the foreseeable future. Your best option is to make tweaks using the customization settings Facebook still provides, and seek out the corners of the platform where the classic design lingers. But ultimately, the classic Facebook era has ended as Facebook moves forward.