Switching Windows 11 to Dark Mode is pretty easy, but sometimes it can be a bit tricky, especially if the settings don’t stick or you want to make sure it’s actually turned on. Some apps also don’t automatically switch to match the system theme, which can be a pain. Anyway, here’s a quick rundown based on a bit of tinkering — might save someone the hassle of searching in circles.
Step-by-Step for Getting Dark Mode Sorted
Step 1: Open Settings
Press Windows + I or click the Start menu and find the gear icon labeled Settings. This is the control panel for pretty much everything, so it’s the first port of call. Some machines might be a bit slow to open Settings, but that’s normal enough.
Step 2: Go to Personalisation
In Settings, click Personalisation. This is where you can change how Windows looks — wallpapers, colours, lock screen, all that. You’ll usually see a sidebar on the left side with Colors.
Step 3: Select Colours
Click on Colors. Here you choose your theme, toggle transparency, and pick your accent colours. You’ll see an option called “Choose your mode” — sometimes it’s a dropdown, other times it’s a toggle, depending on the update.
Step 4: Turn on Dark Mode
Set “Choose your mode” to Dark. The change usually takes effect right away across the system UI and compatible apps. Just a heads up: some third-party apps might need to be set manually or won’t switch automatically.
Step 5: Wrap it up & Exit
Check your settings, then close Settings. You don’t usually need to restart, but a quick reboot can help if apps aren’t picking up the change. Sometimes logging out and back in does the trick too.
And there you go — your Windows 11 should look a lot cooler with the dark theme now. Just keep in mind, depending on your monitor and lighting, the difference can be subtle or a tad too stark. Feel free to tweak the accent colours to get it just right.
Pro Tips & Tricks
- Going dark in low-light? Good idea — it’s easier on your eyes if you’re burning the midnight oil.
- If certain apps don’t switch over, check their individual settings — some need their own dark mode toggled.
- Want it to switch automatically? Windows now supports scheduling dark mode — have a look in Settings > Personalisation > Colours > and toggle Dark Mode Schedule.
- If you’ve got an OLED screen, turning on Dark Mode can help save a bit of battery life. Not a massive difference on LCDs, but every little helps, right?
FAQs & Common Troubles
What if the theme isn’t switching properly?
Sometimes, after turning on Dark Mode, some apps still stick to the light theme. Apps like Photoshop or your browser might need their own settings changed. If restarting or logging out doesn’t do the trick, give your PC a full reboot — Windows sometimes needs a fresh start to really lock in the change.
Can I force everything into dark mode?
Most of the system’s dark mode stuff is covered by the steps above, but if you want to go full tilt and make everything super dark (including high contrast settings), check out Ease of Access > High Contrast. It’s a bit over the top, but some users swear by it.
How do I switch back to Light Mode?
No worries — just follow the same steps and pick Light under “Choose your mode”. It’s quick and easy, unless an app has its own theme. Keep an eye out for apps like Spotify or Slack, they sometimes override the system setting.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Head to Personalisation.
- Select Colours.
- Set “Choose your mode” to Dark.
- Close Settings and enjoy your darker setup.
Hopefully this helps someone save a bit of time. Windows 11’s Dark Mode isn’t perfect, but it’s a lot better than those glaring bright screens in the middle of the night. Good luck fiddling about — it’s worth it if you want a sleeker look or just want to give your eyes a rest. Fingers crossed this gives you a hand!