The dark and light themes in Windows 10 make the good old computer interface look sharp and cool, whichever you choose. Ever since we brought a dark mode to File Explorer. Now, with the Windows 10 May 2019 Update, you have even more options!
In this article, we are going to show you how to switch between themes and, as it’s usually the case with Windows, create your own custom theme.
In the last few updates, Windows 10 improved the dark theme and introduced it to more Windows apps and areas like Sticky Notes, the Mail app, and, of course, File Explorer. In Windows 10 May 2019 Update, you can now set all of Windows to a lighter mode – the taskbar, Start menu, action center, and more will all appear to be a light white color. Before we learn how to switch themes, did you ever wonder why anyone would use the dark app mode at all?
What are the benefits of the Dark Mode
Less exposure to blue light.
Blue light can hurt your eyesight and interfere with your sleep, which is why Windows has Night light settings for when you work or study during evening hours. It also reduces power consumption, since it turns off individual pixels in the display. This is just one more thing you could do to save your battery on devices like a laptop or tablet.
Why Lighter mode?
If there are so many benefits to a dark app mode, then why use the windows light theme?
Following the deep semiotics research, we found that users feel Windows is “heavy”, “dark”, and is better suited for “productivity” in large part due to dark colors and sharp corners. Lighter colors, however, were found to give a feel of simplicity and ease, especially for users with varying vision levels.
To further the mission of Windows being highly customizable, Microsoft brought the Windows light theme to the Windows OS along with lighter icons and a refreshed wallpaper. In well-lit rooms, the light theme makes it easier to read dark text. It reduces eye strain and keeps your eyes healthy.
Light themes are also found to help improve concentration and text visibility. There is also an effect on the subconscious and emotions. Light colors cause you to feel calmer and less stressed.
How to apply Windows light and dark mode.
Method #1
Step 1: Type “themes” in Windows Search and open the Themes page in Settings.
Step 2: You can select Windows or Windows light to change your theme settings.
Method #2
Step 1. Click on “Windows icon“.
Step 2. Open “Settings“.
Step 3. Go to “Personalization“.
Step 4. Click on “Color“.
Step 5. Choose the “Dark” Color.
If you want your Windows system and apps look different, go over to the Colors page. Here, you can choose between the light and dark mode. And if you want the dark mode to apply only to the Windows interface or only your apps, just select Custom to set up preferences.
When choosing a dark default app mode, you may notice that some apps are still light. This means those apps do not support the dark theme yet. In some cases, you might change this by, going to app settings and find the color or theme options to switch from light to dark.
How to enable dark mode on Mail
- Click and open the Mail app.
- Open Mail Settings.
- Select Personalization.
- Select a light or dark mode to your preference.
You can also allow apps to use whatever mode is used by your system. You’ll notice that Windows in both dark and the light theme has a new wallpaper!
Windows 10 new wallpaper is often characterized as “bright”, “calm”, “modern, and feel a sense of calmness” with the lighter colors.
We hope you found this article helpful. Let us know what you think of these new Windows features via comment box.
