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How to set your Color mode in Windows 11

Richard
Written by
Richard
Jun 15, 2026 Updated Jun 19, 2026 3 min read
Young woman working on a laptop and desktop computer with code on screens, shown in bright daytime and dark nighttime environments.
Young woman working on a laptop and desktop computer with code on screens, shown in bright daytime and dark nighttime environments.

You set your color mode in Windows 11 to choose between light, dark, or custom color schemes that affect the appearance of windows, menus, and the taskbar.

Windows 11 color mode settings let users change the computer's appearance to reduce eye strain, like using a dark theme for nighttime use, or to simply match personal style. Users can select between Light, Dark, or Custom modes from the Personalization > Colors section within the Windows 11 Settings app.

Windows 11 offers three main color modes: Light, Dark, and Custom, with the Dark mode, introduced in Windows 10, becoming a popular choice for many users.

Windows 11 color modes are easily accessed and changed within the Personalization settings on your PC. Users can select between Light and Dark modes to adjust the overall appearance of the operating system's interface, making it easier on the eyes.

⚡ Quick Answer

Go to Settings > Personalization > Colors. Use the “Choose your mode” dropdown to select Light, Dark, or Custom. The changes apply immediately to your Windows interface.

Pick Your Main Color Style

First, let’s talk about the main look of Windows. You have two main choices. These choices can make a big difference in how your eyes feel, especially with the lights on or at night.

Light Mode: Bright and Clear

Windows 11’s Light mode gives your computer a clean, bright look using white and light colors, much like reading a fresh page in a book.

Step 1: Open Settings

Click the Start button (the Windows icon in the bottom-left corner). Then, click the gear icon to open the ‘Settings’ app. You can also press the Windows key + I keys on your keyboard.

Step 2: Go to Personalization

In the Settings window, you will see options on the left side. Click on ‘Personalization’.

Step 3: Choose Colors

On the Personalization screen, find ‘Colors’ on the left and click it.

Step 4: Pick Your Mode

Under ‘Choose your mode’, there is a dropdown menu. Click it and choose ‘Light’. You will see the changes right away!

Windows 11 Personalization settings screen showing color options.
Windows 11 Personalization settings screen showing color options.
Windows 11 Light mode example with bright interface.
Windows 11 Light mode example with bright interface.

Dark Mode: Easy on Your Eyes

Windows 11’s Dark mode switches your screen to dark backgrounds with light text, making it easier on your eyes and more comfortable, especially in low light.

Step 1: Go to Color Settings

Follow Steps 1-3 from the ‘Light Mode’ section to get to the ‘Colors’ settings page.

Step 2: Choose Dark Mode

In the ‘Choose your mode’ dropdown menu, pick ‘Dark’. Watch your windows, Start menu, and taskbar change to a dark theme.

Windows 11 Dark mode example with dark interface.
Windows 11 Dark mode example with dark interface.

Custom Mode: The Best of Both

Windows 11’s Custom mode lets you mix and match, so you can have dark apps with a light taskbar, or a light Windows with dark apps.

Step 1: Go to Color Settings

Go back to Settings > Personalization > Colors.

Step 2: Choose Custom Mode

Click the ‘Choose your mode’ dropdown and select ‘Custom’.

Windows 11 Custom color mode settings example.
Windows 11 Custom color mode settings example.

Experiment with these settings! You could have a dark Windows appearance with light apps, or a light Windows look with dark apps. It’s all about finding what works best for you.

Reference:

Summary

Windows 11 offers three main color modes: Light mode for bright environments, Dark mode for comfort in low light, and Custom mode to mix and match.

Why is my computer stuck in dark mode?

Check Personalization Settings: Go to Settings > Personalization > Colors. Ensure that the default app mode is set to Light. This is the primary method to set your Windows theme.

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Tags: #Windows 11
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Richard

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

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