If you’re seeing the error “Out of memory or system resources” in Microsoft Outlook, it usually means your system is low on memory or overwhelmed by too many open programs, large mail folders, or faulty add-ins. This common issue can prevent folders from opening and cause Outlook to run slowly or crash. To fix it, try closing other applications, reducing mailbox size, disabling unnecessary add-ins, updating Outlook, repairing data files, or even resetting your Outlook view. For detailed solutions and ongoing Outlook help, resources like DigitalBulls offer easy-to-follow troubleshooting guides to keep your Outlook running smoothly.
Outlook uses your computer’s memory and system resources to work. If it does not get enough memory or system power, it may crash or show this error. Here are the main reasons:
If many applications are open on your computer, it may not have enough memory for Outlook to work properly.
Folders with too many emails or attachments can slow down Outlook and lead to memory issues.
Add-ins are extra tools in Outlook. But having too many of them running at the same time can cause memory errors.
If your PST or OST file is damaged, Outlook may have trouble loading it and may show this error.
Learn how to find your Outlook OST file here:
👉 Outlook OST File Location – DigitalBulls
Using an outdated version of Outlook might not work well with newer operating systems or updates.
If your computer’s hard drive is nearly full, Outlook may not be able to function properly.
Fix your view settings with this guide:
👉 How to Reset Outlook View to Default – DigitalBulls
You may see different versions of the error:
Outlook out of memory
Outlook cannot display the folder
Outlook running out of space
Microsoft Outlook system resources are critically low
Out of memory or system resources. Close some windows and try again
System is out of memory
Outlook using too much memory
No matter what it says, the root problem is usually the same – Outlook is using more resources than your system can handle.
Now, let’s look at simple fixes you can try yourself.
Free up memory by shutting down apps you don’t need.
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager
Right-click on unnecessary apps
Click End Task
Restart Outlook
Too many emails or big attachments can eat up memory.
Delete old emails
Empty the Deleted Items folder
Move old emails to an archive
Avoid keeping thousands of emails in your Inbox
Emails missing or folders gone? Try this fix:
👉 Outlook Missing Folder – How to Fix It – DigitalBulls
Turn off extra tools that use too much memory.
Open Outlook
Click File > Options > Add-ins
Click Go next to “Manage COM Add-ins”
Uncheck the add-ins you don’t use
Restart Outlook
Corrupt PST or OST files can trigger memory errors.
Close Outlook
Search for ScanPST.exe on your PC
Run it and browse to your PST file
Click Start to scan
Then click Repair
Outlook repair tool not working? Here’s help:
👉 Fix Outlook Inbox Repair Tool Not Responding – DigitalBulls
If folders won’t open or you see “Cannot display the folder,” your view may be broken.
Press Windows + R
Type outlook.exe /resetnavpane
Press Enter
Or follow the full guide:
👉 Reset Outlook View to Default – DigitalBulls
Outdated software can cause system resource problems.
In Outlook, go to File > Office Account > Update Options > Update Now
In Windows, go to Settings > Update & Security > Check for Updates
Virtual memory acts like extra RAM using your hard drive.
Open Control Panel > System
Click Advanced system settings
Under Performance, click Settings
Go to Advanced tab > Click Change
Set a larger custom size (e.g. 4096 MB)
Click OK and restart
If the problem continues, your Outlook profile may be damaged.
Go to Control Panel > Mail
Click Show Profiles > Add
Create a new one and set it as default
Restart Outlook
Outlook memory issues may come along with other troubles, like:
Outlook notifications not working?
👉 Outlook Notifications Troubleshooting Guide – DigitalBulls
Snooze feature problems?
👉 Outlook Snooze Feature – DigitalBulls
Disappearing emails?
👉 Outlook Emails Disappearing – DigitalBulls
Calendar not sending alerts?
👉 Outlook Calendar Notifications Not Working – DigitalBulls
Regularly delete or archive emails
Avoid large folders with too many items
Only install add-ins you need
Disable ones you don’t use often
Keep your hard drive at least 20% free
Clean up junk files regularly
Restarting clears memory and improves performance
You should consider asking for professional help if:
Outlook is still crashing
You’re losing emails
You cannot access any folders
You see “Out of memory” even after following all steps
An Outlook specialist can check the hidden settings, deep system logs, and files that a regular user cannot fix.
Q1: What does “Out of memory or system resources” mean in Outlook?
This message means Outlook is using more computer memory (RAM) or other system resources than your computer can handle. It usually happens when too many programs are open, folders are too big, or Outlook is outdated.
Q2: How do I fix “Outlook cannot display the folder out of memory or system resources”?
Start by closing other programs, cleaning up your Outlook folders, disabling add-ins, and updating Outlook. If that doesn’t work, repair your Outlook data files and reset the view settings.
Q3: Can a corrupted PST or OST file cause memory issues in Outlook?
Yes, if your data file is damaged, it can cause Outlook to crash or use too much memory. Run the Inbox Repair Tool (ScanPST.exe) to fix it.
👉 Fix Outlook Inbox Repair Tool – DigitalBulls
Q4: What should I do if Outlook is using too much memory?
Try these steps:
Disable unused add-ins
Archive or delete large emails
Keep fewer folders open
Avoid opening large attachments within Outlook
Increase your system’s virtual memory
Q5: Does creating a new Outlook profile help with out-of-memory errors?
Yes. If your current profile is corrupted, creating a new one can fix hidden problems that cause memory or system resource issues.
Outlook is powerful, but like any software, it can run into problems. The “Out of memory or system resources” error is one of the most common issues users face. The good news is that it is usually easy to fix. Start by closing extra apps, cleaning up your folders, and disabling unneeded add-ins. Repair any damaged files, update your software, and manage your system memory. If nothing works, consider creating a new Outlook profile or getting expert support. With these simple steps, you can solve the problem and get back to using Outlook without any errors. If problems continue, visit DigitalBulls.com for expert Outlook support.
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