Before you start
- Windows 11 or Windows 10 (version 1809 or later)
Method 1 Windows 11
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Step 1: Open Colors
Go to Settings > Personalization > Colors.
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Step 2: Choose Dark
Set Choose your mode to Dark. File Explorer, Settings and the taskbar all go dark.
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Step 3: Or mix and match
Choose Custom to keep a light taskbar and Start menu (Windows mode: Light) but dark apps (Default app mode: Dark).
Method 2 Windows 10
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Step 1: Open Colors
Go to Settings > Personalization > Colors.
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Step 2: Set app mode
Under Choose your color, pick Dark, or Custom and set Choose your default app mode to Dark.
Troubleshooting
File Explorer stays white
Restart Explorer: open Task Manager, right-click Windows Explorer and choose Restart. Also check that a high-contrast theme isn’t turned on (Settings > Accessibility > Contrast themes).
Dark mode options are greyed out
Windows isn’t activated, which locks personalization settings. Activate Windows in Settings > System > Activation.
Frequently asked questions
Does dark mode save battery on laptops?
On OLED laptop screens, yes. On regular LCD screens the savings are minimal.
Can I schedule dark mode?
Windows doesn’t have a built-in schedule. Free apps like Auto Dark Mode can switch automatically at sunset.
Summary
Go to Settings > Personalization > Colors and choose Dark (or Custom with dark apps). File Explorer switches instantly; restart Explorer if it doesn’t.
