Turning on dark mode in Windows 10 isn’t rocket science. With just a few clicks, you can switch your device’s theme from light to dark. This change not only eases eye strain, especially at night, but also gives your screen a sleek, modern look. Let’s dive into the steps to get your Windows 10 looking cooler and kinder to your eyes.
How to Turn on Dark Mode in Windows 10
Switching to dark mode in Windows 10 is like flipping a switch to change your digital environment. The following steps will guide you through this process.
Step 1: Open Settings
Click the Start Menu and then the gear icon to open the Settings.
Finding the Settings app is pretty straightforward. The gear icon is usually located just above the power icon. If you’re having trouble, you can also type "Settings" in the search bar right next to the Start Menu.
Step 2: Go to Personalization
In the Settings window, select "Personalization."
Once you click on Personalization, you’ll find yourself in a section where all the magic happens. This is where you can change your background, colors, lock screen, and more.
Step 3: Select Colors
In the left-side menu, click on "Colors."
The Colors menu is your gateway to customizing your Windows experience. Here, you’ll find various color settings that can be tweaked to your liking.
Step 4: Choose Your Color
Scroll down to find the "Choose your color" dropdown menu. Select "Dark."
Once you select "Dark," your system will automatically switch to a dark theme. This change will be applied to the Start Menu, taskbar, and many apps.
Step 5: Adjust Additional Settings
(Optional) Customize further by adjusting "Show accent color on the following surfaces" and other settings.
If you want to go the extra mile, you can also adjust accent colors and other personalization settings to match your new dark theme. This allows you to create a cohesive look across your Windows 10 environment.
After completing the action, your Windows 10 will switch to dark mode, transforming the appearance of your system’s interface. You’ll notice a darker background in the Start Menu, taskbar, and various apps. This mode is designed to reduce eye strain and give your device a modern and polished look.
Tips for Turning on Dark Mode in Windows 10
- Dark mode can help reduce eye strain, especially in low-light conditions.
- You can switch back to light mode anytime by following the same steps and selecting "Light" instead of "Dark."
- Customize your accent colors to complement the dark mode for a more personalized experience.
- Dark mode can also save battery life on devices with OLED screens.
- If some apps don’t switch to dark mode, check their individual settings as some apps have their own dark mode options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is dark mode available on all versions of Windows 10?
Yes, but you need to have the Windows 10 Anniversary Update or later.
Can I schedule dark mode to turn on and off automatically?
Windows 10 does not have a built-in feature for scheduling dark mode, but you can use third-party apps to achieve this.
Does dark mode apply to all applications?
Not all applications will follow the system-wide dark mode setting. Some apps require manual adjustment in their settings.
Will switching to dark mode affect my desktop background?
Switching to dark mode will not change your desktop background. It mainly affects the system interface and supported apps.
Can I customize the darkness level of dark mode?
Windows 10 does not allow for custom darkness levels. It has a fixed dark mode setting.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Go to Personalization.
- Select Colors.
- Choose "Dark" in the "Choose your color" dropdown menu.
- Adjust additional settings if desired.
Conclusion
Switching to dark mode in Windows 10 is an easy way to give your computer a fresh, modern look while reducing eye strain. Whether you’re working late into the night or simply prefer the aesthetics, dark mode has its perks. By following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you can quickly transform your digital workspace.
Feel free to experiment with additional personalization settings to make your system truly unique. Remember, if you ever feel like switching back to light mode, it’s just as easy. Enjoy the new look and the comfort that comes with it. For more tips and tricks about Windows 10, stay tuned and keep exploring your system’s capabilities. Happy customizing!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.