Dark mode is an interface theme that uses dark backgrounds with light text and controls, instead of the traditional white background. Operating systems, apps and websites offer it, and many follow the system setting.
Why it matters
In low light, a bright white screen can feel glaring, and many people find dark themes more comfortable. On OLED displays, black pixels are switched off, so dark interfaces can reduce battery drain. It is not universally better, though: some users find light text on a dark background harder to read, especially with astigmatism, and contrast must still be sufficient.
Example
Websites can follow the user's system choice with a CSS media query:
@media (prefers-color-scheme: dark) {
body { background: #121212; color: #e6e6e6; }
}On Windows, the option is under Settings, Personalization, Colors; macOS has Appearance in System Settings; phones usually have it in Display settings with an automatic sunset schedule.
Common misconceptions
- Dark mode does not save battery on LCD screens, where the backlight stays on.
- It does not protect eyes from strain on its own; breaks and good lighting matter.
- Pure black text-on-white inversion is not a proper dark design; colours need re-tuning.
Related
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