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Dark mode has become a popular feature for many users as it reduces eye strain and saves battery life. While Windows 11 has a built-in dark mode, not all third-party apps automatically follow this setting. Enabling dark mode in these apps can help maintain a consistent look across your system.

This guide will walk you through the simple steps to enable dark mode in third-party applications on Windows 11. Whether the app supports dark mode natively or requires manual adjustment, you’ll find clear instructions here.

By following these steps, you can enjoy a comfortable viewing experience in your favorite apps, especially when working in low-light environments. Let’s get started with the basics and work through more advanced options if needed.

Understanding how to enable dark mode on third-party apps helps you customize your Windows experience to suit your preferences better. This guide will make the process straightforward and easy to follow.

Quick Note Before You Begin

Before enabling dark mode in third-party apps, it’s important to check a few things:

• Windows 11 Dark Mode: Make sure your system dark mode is already enabled. This can sometimes trigger apps to switch automatically.
• App Support: Not all apps support dark mode. Check the app’s settings or official documentation to confirm.
• App Version: Ensure your third-party app is updated to the latest version, as dark mode features are often added in updates.
• Permissions: Some apps may require permission or restarting after changing the theme.

Step 1: Enable Dark Mode in Windows 11

Start by enabling dark mode on your Windows 11 system. This helps apps that follow the system theme to automatically switch to dark mode.

1. Click the Start button (Windows icon) in the taskbar.
2. Select Settings (gear icon).
3. In the Settings window, click on Personalization.
4. Choose Colors from the left sidebar.
5. Under Choose your mode, select Dark from the dropdown menu.

This step changes your Windows interface to dark mode. Many apps that support system theme will follow this setting automatically.

Step 2: Check the App’s Built-In Theme Settings

Some third-party apps have their own theme settings that override Windows’ system theme. To enable dark mode inside the app, follow these steps:

1. Open the third-party app you want to change.
2. Look for the Settings or Preferences menu. This is usually found under the app’s main menu or a gear icon.
3. Find the Appearance or Theme section.
4. Select Dark or similar option to enable dark mode.
5. Save or apply the changes, then restart the app if necessary.

This method is important because some apps do not follow Windows theme by default and require manual activation.

Step 3: Use Third-Party Tools for Apps Without Native Dark Mode

If the app does not have a built-in dark mode and does not follow system settings, you can try third-party tools that force dark mode on apps. One popular option is Windows 11 Night Mode Enabler or similar utilities.

1. Search online for a trusted third-party dark mode enabler tool compatible with Windows 11.
2. Download and install the tool following the on-screen instructions.
3. Use the tool to enable dark mode for specific apps.
4. Restart the apps to see if the dark mode has been applied.

Note: Use third-party tools cautiously and only download from reputable sources to avoid security risks.

Alternative Method: Use High Contrast Themes

If dark mode is not available or working, a high contrast theme can reduce eye strain by changing colors to darker tones:

1. Open Settings and go to Accessibility.
2. Select Contrast themes.
3. Choose a dark high contrast theme from the dropdown menu.
4. Click Apply.

This method changes the color scheme system-wide and can affect all apps, including those without native dark mode.

FAQs

Why doesn’t my app switch to dark mode automatically?

Not all apps support Windows system theme detection. You need to enable dark mode manually in the app’s settings or use a third-party tool.

Can I force dark mode on any app?

No, forcing dark mode might not work perfectly on all apps. Some apps are designed without dark mode support, and forcing it can cause display issues.

Is enabling dark mode safe for my eyes?

Dark mode reduces blue light and glare, which can reduce eye strain, especially in low-light environments. However, some people prefer light mode for readability.

Will enabling dark mode save battery life?

Yes, especially on OLED screens, dark mode can save battery by using less power to display dark pixels.

My app’s dark mode looks strange or buggy. What should I do?

Try updating the app to the latest version or disable dark mode if the appearance is not acceptable. You can also check the app’s support page for known issues.

When Nothing Works

If you’ve tried all the above steps and your third-party app still doesn’t support dark mode, consider the following options:

• Contact App Support: Reach out to the app developer or check their official website for dark mode availability and support.
• Look for Alternatives: Some apps have better dark mode support. Consider switching to an alternative app that fits your needs.
• Windows Feedback Hub: Submit feedback to Microsoft requesting improved dark mode support for specific apps.

Using official resources ensures your feedback reaches developers who can improve app compatibility.

Conclusion

Enabling dark mode on third-party apps in Windows 11 can improve your visual comfort and create a consistent look across your system. Always start by enabling Windows dark mode and checking each app’s native settings. For apps without built-in dark mode, third-party tools or high contrast themes offer alternative solutions.

Remember to update your apps regularly and use trusted tools only. If problems persist, contacting app support or exploring alternative software is a practical approach. With these steps, you can enjoy a better and more comfortable computing experience in dark mode.