Windows 11 introduces a fresh look and a range of new features aimed at enhancing usability and personalization. One such addition that has received a lot of attention is the use of a dark theme. The dark theme is popular owing to the visual change it provides and the practical benefit it provides by reducing eye strain in low-light conditions. Please see Windows Desktop Icon: How to Make Default System Icons Visible.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to activate the dark theme in Windows 11 for a unique look and feel, as well as a more immersive computing experience. If you’d want to use Windows 11 with a dark theme—perhaps to cut down on glare while working late at night—but aren’t sure where to start, this guide will take you step by step through the process. Kindly read the following related guides Focus on Tasks: Limit Distraction & Get Things Done on Windows, Windows Stickers: Creating Desktop Stickers on Windows 11, Enhanced Multi-Monitor Experience with Windows 11, and How to fix File Explorer thumbnails issue on Windows 11.
How to Turn on Dark Mode in Windows 11
To activate dark mode in your Windows 11 environment, follow these steps:
It’s important to note that dark mode applies primarily to the Windows 11 desktop and specific Microsoft applications. For other apps like Google Chrome, you’ll need to enable dark mode separately.
Press the Windows key to bring up the Start menu and select Settings.
In the Settings, click on “Personalization,” and on the right side, click on “Colors.”
A menu will appear, featuring a drop-down labeled “Choose your mode.” Click on this drop-down and select “Dark.”
Once you’ve made your selection, Windows will transition to dark mode.
Alternatively, if you prefer to customize dark mode settings for individual apps and Windows components, you can choose “Custom.” Then, click on “Choose your default Windows mode” and “Choose your default app mode” to switch to your preferred mode.
If want, you can further enhance your visual experience by adding an Accent color.
You can do this by turning on the switches next to “Show accent color on Start and taskbar” and “Show accent color on title bars and windows borders.”
If you turn on Accent color, it will be visible in the designated areas of your interface.
How to Use Contrast Themes to Enable Dark Mode
If you’re seeking an alternative to dark mode that enhances the visibility and readability of the system interface, contrast themes can be an ideal choice. Windows 11 extends a variety of contrast theme options for you to explore:
Note: Contrast themes apply broadly to most applications and Windows components on your system.
Press the “Windows key + I” to open Settings. Select “Personalization,” click on “Colors.”
From here, choose “Contrast themes.”
Click the “Contrast themes” dropdown and select the theme that best suit you. You can see them previews at the top of the page.
To effect your chosen theme, select “Apply.”
Once chosen, the contrast theme instantly enhances visual clarity. To further customize, select the “Edit” option for fine-tuning.
Click “Save as” to apply your changes.
Conclusion
By following these guidelines, you can effortlessly tailor your Windows 11 experience to align with your preferred visual aesthetics and readability requirements.