Outlook Attachments not showing up! – [Tutorial 2026]

Outlook attachments not appearing is a common issue which is caused by numerous factors such as corrupted database files, outdated Outlook version, incorrect settings, etc. In the blog, we will go through the main reasons responsible behind the problem and discuss the step-by-step accordingly to fix it.

Outlook delivers inbuilt option to embed attachments to email messages. Users can attach images, spreadsheets, videos, documents etc. and send them to anyone without any problem. At times, Outlook unable to open attachments that creates many challenges for users. And for an uninterrupted workflow, it is important to fix the issue of Outlook attachments not showing up.

In the further segment, we have discussed few methods to resolve the problem. But at first, let us explore the reasons why Outlook attachments are not showing.

Why Outlook Attachments not Showing Up? – Main Reasons

Here we have listed some main reasons responsible behind receiving the error “Outlook attachments not showing”.

• Unstable or very slow internet connection.
• Outlook version expired.
• Interference from Firewall or Antivirus.
• Issues with synchronization.
• Outlook profile badly corrupted.
• Add-ins is not correct.
• Damaged OST/PST files.
• Safety issues.
• Attachment previewer is disabled.

Top Ways to Fix Outlook Attachments not showing up Error

Below we have explained some ways to resolve Outlook attachments not showing up. Follow them to get trouble-free experience –

Method 1. Disable Antivirus Program Temporarily

At times, antivirus program prevent users from accessing attachment in Outlook. So, turn it off and open Outlook again to verify if it was causing the issue. If implementing it resolve the issue, then enable it again after viewing the attachments.

Method 2. Update Outlook email client

The expired version of Outlook could be reason behind why Outlook not showing attachments. You may update it to the latest version resolve the issue. Follow the below steps to know how to update Outlook email client –

Step 1. Run Microsoft Outlook.

Step 2. Go to Office Account button, then tap Update Options and click Update Now.

Method 3. Turn off Outlook Add-ins

Many times, third-party add-ins will prevent users to extracting attached files in Outlook. By disabling them, issue can be fixed. To do the process, follow the below steps –

Step 1. In Outlook, click File and tap Options.

Step 2. Go to Add-ins and tap COM Add-ins, then click Go.

Step 3. Uncheck the add-ins and tap OK.

Step 4. Open Outlook again to see if attachments are now visible.

Method 4. Cross-check Attachments Previewer Settings

If the attachments previewer setting is disabled, then there are chances that attachments won’t open. Ensure the settings are configured correctly. Follow the steps below to check attachments previewer settings –

Step 1. Run Outlook, navigate to File and tap Options.

Step 2. Go to Trust Center, then open Trust Center Settings.

Step 3. Navigate to Attachment Handling and deselect Turn Off Attachment Preview option, then select Attachments and Document Previewers.

Step 4. Select the entire list of File Previewing Options and click OK.

Method 5. Delete Old Cache Files

In case Outlook cache is corrupted, then it could prevent you from accessing the attachments. Follow the below steps to remove old cache files.

Step 1. Use Windows + R key to open Run wizard and enter %localappdata%\Microsoft\Outlook\RoamCache, then click OK.

Step 2. Choose all the cache files and tap Delete button.

Method 6. Professional Way to fix Outlook attachments not showing up

If you are still facing the issue, then use MacMister’s PST Converter for Mac & Windows. It is an app the quickly perform the conversion of PST files to PDF and allows to save PST file attachments separately in a single PDF file. Its interface is easily manageable and is programmed with remarkable features that allow users to implement the entire task as per the requirements. Some of them are listed here –

• Able to save PST file attachments in bulk.
• Possesses simple and secure operable platform.
• Equipped with Add File(s)/Add Folder options to upload essential .pst files on the tool.
• Both technical and novice users can make use of the app.
• Protects the original content of attachments during the process.
• Supports many saving options other than PDF such as EML, DOC, TXT, Yahoo Mail, Office 365, and more.
• Compatible with Mac & Win OS (supporting all versions).

Quick Note. Download the trial version of the app to know the detailed software processing.

Epilogue

When Outlook not able to open attachments, this could be due to synchronization issues, corrupt PST files, damaged add-ins, etc. You may resolve the issue by making use of the methods mentioned above. Still, if the problem occurs, then it is recommended to use professional way and extract all the attachments in a different format. And in case you need any assistance, then contact MacMister Support.