Using a dark theme in Windows 10 can help reduce eye strain, especially in low-light environments. It also gives a modern, sleek look to your File Explorer. Enabling dark mode in File Explorer is simple and can be done in just a few steps.
This guide will walk you through the exact process of turning on the dark theme for File Explorer in Windows 10. No advanced knowledge is required, and each step is explained clearly. By the end, your File Explorer will have a darker, easier-on-the-eyes interface.
Whether you want a consistent dark look across your system or just prefer the night mode style, this guide covers everything you need. Let’s get started with the basics.
Follow along carefully to avoid missing any important settings. The dark theme option is built right into Windows 10, so no additional downloads are necessary.
Quick Note Before You Begin
- Make sure your Windows 10 is updated to at least version 1809 (October 2018 Update) or later, as the dark theme for File Explorer was introduced in this version.
- You need to be signed in with a user account that has permission to change system personalization settings.
- Enabling dark mode affects File Explorer and some other Windows apps, but it does not apply to all third-party applications.
Step 1: Open Windows Settings
First, click on the Start button (the Windows logo) located on the bottom-left corner of your screen. Then, click on the Settings icon, which looks like a small gear.
This opens the main Settings window where you can customize different aspects of your Windows experience.
Step 2: Navigate to Personalization
Inside the Settings window, you will see several options. Click on Personalization. This section allows you to change your background, colors, lock screen, and themes.
Personalization is where Microsoft has placed the option to switch between light and dark modes.
Step 3: Select Colors
On the left side of the Personalization window, click on Colors. This will open a panel with color settings, including the option to choose your default app mode.
The colors section controls the overall color scheme of Windows system interfaces.
Step 4: Choose Your Default Windows Mode
Scroll down until you find the section titled Choose your default app mode. You will see two options:
- Light – this is the default bright theme.
- Dark – this is the darker theme that changes File Explorer and supported apps.
Click the Dark option to enable the dark theme.
This change immediately updates File Explorer’s background and menus to a dark color scheme, making it easier on the eyes, especially in dim lighting.
Step 5: Verify the Change in File Explorer
Open File Explorer by clicking its icon on the taskbar or pressing Windows key + E. You should now see a dark background with lighter text and icons.
If the theme hasn’t changed, try closing all File Explorer windows and reopening them. Sometimes restarting your PC can help apply the changes fully.
Alternative Method: Using High Contrast Settings
If for some reason the dark theme option is not working or available, you can try enabling a high contrast mode that also provides a dark interface.
To do this:
- Go to Settings > Ease of Access > High contrast.
- Turn on the toggle for Turn on high contrast.
- Select a high contrast theme with dark backgrounds.
- Click Apply.
Keep in mind that high contrast mode changes more than just File Explorer and can affect many interface elements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does enabling dark mode affect all applications?
No. Dark mode in Windows 10 primarily affects system apps like File Explorer, Settings, and some Microsoft apps. Many third-party apps have their own theme settings.
Can I set File Explorer to dark mode only, without changing other apps?
Currently, Windows 10 does not allow you to apply dark mode only to File Explorer. The default app mode affects all supported system applications simultaneously.
What if I don’t see the dark mode option in Colors settings?
Make sure your Windows 10 version is updated to 1809 or later. You can check your version by typing winver in the Start menu search and pressing Enter.
Will dark mode save battery life?
On OLED or AMOLED displays, dark mode can help conserve battery life by using less power to display dark pixels. For LCD screens, the effect is minimal.
Can I schedule dark mode to turn on automatically?
Windows 10 does not have a built-in schedule for dark mode, but third-party apps and scripts exist that can automate switching based on time of day.
When Nothing Works
If you are unable to enable dark mode after following the steps, try these options:
- Restart your PC to ensure changes take effect.
- Check for Windows updates by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Run the Windows troubleshooter for personalization settings.
- Visit the official Microsoft support page: https://support.microsoft.com/windows.
Conclusion
Enabling the dark theme in File Explorer on Windows 10 is a straightforward process built right into the system settings. By switching your default app mode to dark, you can enjoy a more comfortable viewing experience and reduce eye strain.
Remember to keep your Windows updated to access all the latest features. If you encounter any difficulties, alternative methods like high contrast mode or official support can help.
Try the dark theme today, and you might find it improves your overall workflow and comfort when using your PC.