Dark Mode in Notepad: How to enable it and all its benefits

Nowadays, we spend hours in front of white screens that, while seemingly harmless, can cause everything from eye strain to sleep problems. That's why more and more apps are integrating dark mode, a feature that helps reduce light intensity and protect our eyes, especially when working at night or in poorly lit environments. One of the oldest Windows applications, the classic Notepad, could not be left behind.

You may have noticed this in other tools, but enabling dark mode in Notepad isn't as obvious to many users. However, whether you're using Windows 10 or Windows 11, there are Native and indirect ways to transform your interface and adapt it to a more comfortable and elegant environment. Below, we'll tell you Everything you need to know to work in Notepad in dark mode, the benefits it brings, and all the methods you can use to activate it, including advanced tricks and alternatives if you're looking for even more customization options.

Why enable dark mode in Notepad?

The main reason to use dark mode is protect your eyesightSpending too much time in front of a screen with a white background can cause discomfort such as eye irritation, headaches, and even disrupt sleep cycles due to exposure to blue light. Dark mode helps reduce visual load and the emission of this harmful light spectrum, allowing concentration to be maintained for longer and rest periods to be better regulated.

Additionally, on portable devices, dark mode can contribute to lower energy consumption, especially on OLED displays, increasing the device's battery life. And, of course, there's the aesthetic component: many people prefer a more elegant and discreet interface, something that dark mode more than provides.

Previously, Notepad was one of the few native Windows applications that didn't offer this functionality. However, with the latest updates, Microsoft has taken a step forward to satisfy the most demanding users, allowing them to take full advantage of all the benefits of this simple yet powerful application.

Official and alternative methods to activate dark mode

Depending on the version of Windows you have installed, the process for enabling dark mode in Notepad may vary. Below, we'll see how to enable it on each operating system, what limitations it has, and what alternatives exist if you're looking to fully customize the experience.

How to put Notepad in dark mode in Windows 10

In Windows 10, the Notepad does not have a specific dark theme setting within the app itself., but it is possible to change its appearance by taking advantage of the system options related to accessibility and contrast.

• Press Win+I to open Windows Settings.
• Go to the section of Accessibility.
• In the menu on the left, select Vision.
• Look for the option Activate high contrast and get it going.

Wait a few seconds and you'll see the application background turn black and the text appear white. Additionally, the interface controls and buttons will highlight in bright colors for better differentiation. This method not only affects Notepad but also the overall appearance of other applications and windows, so it's a good idea to try it out and see if it suits your needs.

Enable dark mode in Windows 11

Windows 11 has taken a significant leap forward in terms of environment customization. Notepad now offers several theme options from its own settings, allowing you to independently choose between light, dark, or automatic mode (based on system settings).

• Open Notepad and click on the icon gear located in the upper right corner.
• Access Configuration and look for the section Application theme.
• Choose between the different options: light, dark or use according to system configuration.

If you choose to follow the default settings, Notepad's mode will automatically change based on the operating system's status (for example, if you've scheduled a specific time to activate dark mode at dusk). This way, you can adapt it to your daily routine without any additional effort.

Advanced Tricks: Customizing Using the Windows Registry

If you're not satisfied with the basics and like to customize every detail of the system, there's a more advanced option: modify the Windows registry to change the colors of Notepad and other system elements. However, this method is recommended only for experienced users, as an incorrect change could affect your computer's performance.

• Open Windows Search and type regedit. Right click and run as administrator.
• Navigate to the route: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Colors
• Locate the entrances Windows (background color) and WindowsText (text color).
• Change the value of "Windows" to 0 0 0 (black) and "WindowsText" to 255 255 255 (white).
• Please restart your session to apply the changes.

This will make the background completely black and the text stand out in white, which is ideal for working at night without straining your eyes. Remember that these changes may affect other programs and system components, so you should consider them before applying them.

Other alternatives: third-party applications and solutions

If you're looking for an even more customizable experience or aren't convinced by the look of the classic Notepad in dark mode, you have the option of downloading third-party apps that offer a very similar interface but with more color options. One of the most recommended is Black Notepad, available in the Microsoft Store.

This app is almost identical in features and design, but You have the advantage of being able to select from a wide range of dark themes, configure additional fonts and colors and enjoy a more modern and comfortable experience, especially during extended work or study sessions.

To install it, simply search for "Black Notepad" in the Microsoft App Store, download it, and start using it. It doesn't require any complex setup and quickly adapts to your style.

Advantages of dark mode: beyond aesthetics

At first, dark mode seemed like a fad, but experts agree that it has real benefits for eye health and well-being. Just changing the background and text colors, we achieved:

• Reduce eye strain in long work sessions.
• Improve the readability in low-light environments, avoiding annoying reflections.
• Reduce blue light emission, which disrupts sleep and can cause headaches.
• Give a more modern and elegant to our daily tools.

Many people notice that they can Spend more time in front of the computer without suffering from fatigue, pain or eye discomfort. Moreover, for those who are used to working at night, the difference is more than noticeable: switching from a white interface to a dark one helps you relax and better prepares you for the rest that follows.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dark Mode in Notepad

• Does dark mode affect all elements of Notepad?
  In Windows 11, dark mode is quite well-executed and covers the main interface, menus, and editing area. In Windows 10, it depends on the high contrast setting and may not be as uniform, also affecting other parts of the system.
• Can I schedule dark mode to turn on automatically?
  Yes. If you choose "system-based" in the Windows 11 theme options, dark mode can be turned on and off according to your Windows settings (sunrise and sunset times, for example).
• Is the registry modification reversible?
  Of course. If you experience any unwanted effects after editing the registry, simply restore the original values ​​(usually 255 255 255 for a white background and 0 0 0 for black text) and log back in.
• Are there better free alternatives to Notepad for dark mode?
  In addition to Black Notepad, there are advanced editors like Notepad++ and Visual Studio Code, both of which offer native dark mode support and a wide variety of themes and customizations, although for users who want simplicity, this option may be more suitable.