How to Enable and Use Dark Mode in Windows 11

Windows 11 offers a practical solution to ensure readability even in dark work environments with its Dark Theme. Learn how to turn on dark mode in Windows 11.

Prajwal Desai
Posted by Prajwal Desai
How to Enable Dark Mode in Windows 11

In this post, I will explain how to turn on dark mode in Windows 11. Activating the dark mode on a Windows 11 PC reduces eye strain and conserves battery life.

When you enable the dark mode on Windows 11, it changes the overall look and feel of the apps and the system taskbar. Windows 11 offers two other features, contrast themes and Night Light, designed to be used in darker environments.

Windows 11 supports two color modes: light and dark. Each mode consists of a set of neutral color values that are automatically adjusted to ensure optimal contrast.

Also Read: How to Enable Dark Mode for IDM and Customize Toolbar in IDM

How to Use Dark Mode in Windows 11

Follow these steps to turn on the dark mode in Windows 11:

Launch the Settings app either from the Start menu or with the Win+ I keyboard shortcut. Now select Personalization > Colors.

Launch Settings: Turn on Dark Mode in Windows 11
Launch Settings: Turn on Dark Mode in Windows 11

In the Personalization > Colors window, we see that Windows 11 offers the following color modes:

  • Light: By default, the Light mode is enabled on newly installed Windows 11.
  • Dark: Choosing this option will turn on dark mode for the taskbar and apps.
  • Custom: This option allows you to toggle the Windows mode (taskbar) and default app mode (apps) to dark or light separately.

Select the Choose your mode drop-down and choose Dark.

Turn on Dark Mode in Windows 11
Turn on Dark Mode in Windows 11

Windows 11 will now switch to dark mode. All the apps that support dark mode on Windows 11 will also be applied with a dark theme.

Note: Not all apps support the dark mode in Windows 11. So, when you enable dark mode, do not expect every Windows 11 app to adapt to this change. In the coming months, Microsoft will gradually add dark mode support to built-in apps.

Alternatively, you can turn on or off the transparency effects to make windows and surfaces appear translucent. In the same menu, you’ll also find options to change accent colors.

Turn on Dark Mode in Windows 11 | Enhance Your Windows 11 Experience with Dark Mode
Turn on Dark Mode in Windows 11 | Enhance Your Windows 11 Experience with Dark Mode

See Also: Enable Never Combine Taskbar Buttons in Windows 11

How to Set Custom times for Dark mode

You don’t have to use dark mode all the time. If you prefer Light mode during the day and Dark mode at night, set the Dark mode timing to auto Dark mode.

To schedule the dark mode in Windows 11, you can activate Schedule Night Light in your system’s display settings. This feature allows you to set a Night Light to turn on and off at specific times. You can also schedule Night Light to activate at sunset by turning on location services in your location settings.

Set Custom times for Dark mode
Set Custom times for Dark mode

Benefits of using Dark Mode in Windows 11

Enabling Dark Mode in Windows 11 offers a range of benefits that go beyond just the visual appeal. Let’s explore some of the advantages of using Dark Mode on your Windows 11 device:

1. Reduced Eye Strain: Dark Mode’s dark background in Windows 11 with contrasting content reduces eye strain, making it easier and more comfortable to work or browse the web for extended periods.

2. Increased Productivity and Focus: The focused environment that Dark Mode creates enables you to focus more intently on your tasks, increasing productivity and efficiency.

3. Enhanced Visual Appeal: Dark Mode gives your Windows 11 interface a sleek and sophisticated look, elevating the overall visual appeal of your computer.

4. Battery Life Conservation: Dark Mode helps conserve battery life, especially on devices with OLED or AMOLED screens, allowing you to use your device for longer periods without worrying about running out of power.

5. Better Sleep Quality: Dark Mode’s reduced brightness can help promote better sleep quality, especially when using your computer in the evening or at night.

6. Accessibility: Windows 11 Dark theme can be beneficial for individuals with visual impairments or sensitivity to bright lights, providing a more comfortable and inclusive user experience.

Read: How to enable dark theme of Notepad in Windows 11

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Prajwal Desai
Posted by Prajwal Desai
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Prajwal Desai is a Microsoft MVP in Intune and SCCM. He writes articles on SCCM, Intune, Windows 365, Windows Server, Windows 11, WordPress and other topics, with the goal of providing people with useful information.
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