How to Make Windows Explorer Dark Mode: A Comprehensive Guide
In recent years, dark mode has become increasingly popular among users due to its aesthetic appeal and potential health benefits. Dark mode provides a sleek, modern look and can reduce eye strain, especially in low-light environments. If you’re a Windows user and want to enjoy the benefits of dark mode in Windows Explorer, you’re in luck. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on how to make Windows Explorer dark mode, ensuring a more comfortable and visually appealing experience.
1. Using Windows 10’s Built-in Dark Mode
The simplest way to enable dark mode in Windows Explorer is by using the built-in dark theme in Windows 10. Here’s how to do it:
1. Click on the Start button and select “Settings.”
2. Go to “Personalization” and then “Colors.”
3. Toggle the “Use dark mode” switch to “On.”
4. Scroll down and click on “Choose your default app mode.”
5. Select “Dark” for “Windows Explorer.”
After following these steps, Windows Explorer should automatically switch to dark mode. This method is quick and easy, but it may not provide a complete dark mode experience as some third-party tools.
2. Using Third-Party Tools
If you’re looking for a more comprehensive dark mode experience for Windows Explorer, you might want to consider using third-party tools. Here are a few popular options:
1. Dark Theme for Windows Explorer: This is a free, lightweight tool that adds dark mode to Windows Explorer. Simply download and install the tool, and it will automatically enable dark mode in Explorer.
2. Visual Studio Code: If you’re a fan of Visual Studio Code, you can use its dark theme to style Windows Explorer. First, download and install Visual Studio Code. Then, open the command prompt and run the following command: `code –install-extension ms-vscode-remote.remote-wsl`. This will install the WSL extension, which allows you to open Windows Explorer in Visual Studio Code with a dark theme.
3. Windows Terminal: Windows Terminal is a modern, feature-rich terminal application that supports dark mode. You can open Windows Explorer in Windows Terminal and enjoy a dark-themed experience.
3. Using Group Policy Editor
For Windows 10 Pro and Enterprise users, you can also use the Group Policy Editor to enable dark mode in Windows Explorer. Here’s how:
1. Press “Win + R” to open the Run dialog, then type “gpedit.msc” and press Enter.
2. Navigate to “User Configuration” > “Administrative Templates” > “Windows Components” > “Windows Explorer.”
3. Double-click on “Disable Windows Explorer dark mode.”
4. Select “Enabled” and click “OK.”
Restart your computer for the changes to take effect. This method will force Windows Explorer to use dark mode, regardless of the system-wide dark mode setting.
4. Using Registry Editor
If you’re comfortable with editing the registry, you can also enable dark mode in Windows Explorer using the Registry Editor. Here’s how:
1. Press “Win + R” to open the Run dialog, then type “regedit” and press Enter.
2. Navigate to “HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced.”
3. Right-click on the “Advanced” folder and select “New” > “DWORD (32-bit) Value.”
4. Name the new value “UseDarkMode.”
5. Double-click on the “UseDarkMode” value and set its value data to “1.”
6. Click “OK” and close the Registry Editor.
Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
Conclusion
Making Windows Explorer dark mode is a simple process, whether you choose to use Windows 10’s built-in dark mode, third-party tools, or the Group Policy Editor or Registry Editor. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can enjoy a more comfortable and visually appealing experience in Windows Explorer.