Alex Ruben
How to Enable Dark Mode in Notepad on Windows 11
In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process of enabling Dark Mode in Notepad on Windows 11. Dark Mode not only enhances visual comfort by reducing eye strain, especially during late-night coding or writing sessions, but it also gives a sleek, modern look to your applications. By the end of this guide, you’ll learn how to make this adjustment quickly and effectively, enhancing your overall user experience on Windows 11.
Step 1: Open Notepad
Start by launching Notepad. You can do this by clicking on the Start menu and typing “Notepad” into the search bar. Click on the application from the search results to open it. Ensure that you have the latest version of Notepad, as Dark Mode is only available in recent updates.
Step 2: Access the Settings Menu
Once Notepad is open, navigate to the settings menu by clicking on the three vertical dots (…) located in the top-right corner of the window. This menu will provide you with various options relevant to Notepad’s functionality.
Step 3: Enable Dark Mode
In the drop-down menu, look for the Settings option and click on it. In the Settings window, you will see an option labeled Theme. Click on this dropdown to reveal theme options. Select Dark to enable Dark Mode. This will apply the changes immediately, providing the Notepad interface with a dark background and contrasting text.
Step 4: Adjust Text Color (if needed)
While the Dark Mode setting should automatically adjust the text color, you may want to customize it further. If you prefer a different text color for increased readability, return to the Settings menu and explore additional customization options, if available. Note that not all versions may support extensive text color changes; however, feel free to experiment with what’s offered.
Step 5: Save Your Preferences
After enabling Dark Mode and making any adjustments, simply close the Settings window. Your preferences will be saved automatically in Notepad. Each time you open Notepad thereafter, it will launch in Dark Mode, ensuring a consistent experience every time you use it.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
If you encounter issues enabling Dark Mode, ensure your Windows 11 is updated to the latest version as features can change with updates. Additionally, if Notepad does not reflect the Dark Mode setting, restarting your device might resolve any glitches. Remember that certain elements like printers may not support Dark Mode previews, so be aware of this when printing documents.
For those who prefer not to use Dark Mode in Notepad, simply follow the same steps to revert to the Light theme through the Theme settings.
Conclusion
Enabling Dark Mode in Notepad on Windows 11 is a straightforward process that can significantly enhance your comfort and experience while using the application. By following these steps, you can quickly switch to a more pleasing visual interface. If you wish to explore more customization options or troubleshoot further, feel free to check out additional guides on my website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I enable Dark Mode in Notepad on Windows 10?
No, Dark Mode is a feature introduced in the more recent updates of Notepad specific to Windows 11. Users on earlier versions of Windows may not have this option available.
What if my Notepad does not change to Dark Mode?
Ensure that your Windows 11 is updated to the latest version. If issues persist, try restarting your application or system to apply any pending updates.
Are there other text editors with Dark Mode?
Yes, many text editors and IDEs, such as Visual Studio Code and Notepad++, offer Dark Mode themes that can be activated in their respective settings menus, providing additional customization options.
