How to Invert Screen Colors in Windows 11 Magnifier

This article explains how to turn on or off invert screen colors when using Magnifier on Windows 11.

Like a magnifying glass, the Magnifier app in Windows produces a magnified image of an object on one’s screen so one can see and read better. This is useful for people with poor vision or has difficulties seeing objects on their computer screen.

Using the Invert Colors feature with the Magnifier on Windows can enhance text readability, especially for those with light sensitivity or specific visual impairments. It often makes the foreground stand out more against the background.

Dark backgrounds with light text can reduce glare and eye strain, particularly in low-light environments. This can be especially helpful during extended periods of computer use.

Inverted colors can help reduce eye strain or make text more readable.

Turn Invert colors on or off using keyboard shortcuts

As described, inverted colors can help reduce eye strain and make text more readable.

Here’s how to use it.

First, turn on the Magnifier (Windows key + Plus).

While the Magnifier is turned on, press Ctrl + Alt + I. Black color becomes white and vice versa; other colors change to suit that.  

Press Ctrl + Alt + I again to return the colors to normal. 

Turn Invert colors on or off using the Settings app

Another way to turn invert colors on or off is to use the Settings app.

First, open the Windows Settings app.

You can do that by clicking on the Start menu and selecting Settings. Or press the keyboard shortcut (Windows key + I) to launch the Settings app.

When the Setting app opens, click the Accessibility button on the left.

On the right, select the Magnifier tile to expand it.

On the Magnifier settings pane, under “Appearance,” toggle the switch button for Invert colors to the On or Off position to enable or disable it.

Close the Settings app when you are finished.

Enable or disable Invert colors using the Registry

Another way to enable or disable invert colors using the Magnifier app is the Windows Registry Editor.

Remember to back up your registry before making any changes or create a System Restore point as a precaution.

First, open the Windows Registry and navigate to the folder key path below.

Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\ScreenMagnifier

Right-click ScreenMagnifier > New > DWORD (32-bit) Value and name the new DWORD Invert.

Double-click Invert and change the value to 1 to turn on invert colors while using the Magnifier app.

To turn it off, change the value to 0.

You may have to reboot your computer to apply the changes.

That should do it!

Conclusion:

In summary, inverting colors with the Magnifier app in Windows 11 offers several benefits for users looking to enhance their screen readability. Here are the key takeaways:

• Improved Readability: Inverted colors can make text easier to read, especially for those with light sensitivity or visual impairments.
• Reduced Eye Strain: Dark backgrounds with light text can help lessen glare, making it more comfortable for extended computer use.
• Multiple Methods: Users can toggle invert colors on or off using keyboard shortcuts, through the Settings app, or by modifying the Windows Registry.
• Accessibility Feature: The Magnifier app enhances accessibility for visually impaired users, allowing for a more personalized viewing experience.
• Quick Adjustments: Changing the invert settings can be done swiftly, ensuring users can adapt their display according to their visual needs.

Utilizing these options can optimize your Windows 11 experience for better comfort and clarity.