How to enable automatic dark mode in Windows 11 based on time

Dark mode has become one of the most requested customization options in Windows 11, both for aesthetic reasons and for eye health. Many users are looking to activate this mode automatically based on the time of day, to enjoy a more restful interface at night and a brighter appearance during the day. Although Windows 11 doesn't yet offer a specific native feature to change the light to dark theme based on time, there are ways to configure it and a wide variety of customization features to customize the system to your liking.

In this article, we'll break down all the options for enabling and configuring dark mode in Windows 11, including customization options, how to set up automatic changes, and additional tips for optimizing your viewing experience. If you want to discover step-by-step how to make the most of these features and customize the appearance of your desktop down to the last detail, we'll tell you everything here.

What is dark mode and what does it do in Windows 11?

El dark mode Windows 11 allows you to change the operating system interface so that, instead of displaying light backgrounds and menus, it uses dark or black tones. This setting is especially useful in dimly lit environments or at night., helping to reduce eye strain and improve concentration. Many people also prefer its modern, discreet look compared to traditional clear models.

Windows 11 offers the ability to select between light mode, dark mode, or a custom mode, which gives you even more control over which parts of your system and apps are displayed in each theme. This means you can have your system dark but keep your apps light, or vice versa, depending on your preference.

Advantages of enabling automatic dark mode in Windows 11

• Less eye fatigue: Dark tones are more comfortable in low-light environments.
• More elegant and modern aesthetics: Dark mode gives a modern touch to the desktop.
• Better user experience at night: Avoid glare when working at night.
• Advanced customization: You can combine background, accent colors, and transparencies to create a unique environment.

How to enable dark mode step by step in Windows 11

The basic way to enable dark mode is very simple and is done from the application Configuration from the system. Here's how to do it:

1. Open the Settings app. You can do this by pressing the Windows key + I.
2. In the left panel, select the section Personalization.Here you'll see different sections to modify the appearance of Windows 11.
3. Press on Colours, identified by a palette icon. From here you can manage everything related to color modes and the interface.
4. Look for the option Choose your mode and display the menu. Select Dark to activate the dark theme throughout the operating system.
5. If you want a higher level of detail, you can choose the mode PersonalizedThis will allow you to independently define the theme for the Windows system and for supported applications.

When you select dark mode, you will notice that the start menu, taskbar, action center and most windows will adopt dark tones.. Additionally, many apps will automatically adapt their color palette to match your choices.

Set automatic mode based on time in Windows 11

Natively, Windows 11 does not yet include a specific option to automatically switch between light and dark mode based on time.However, there are alternatives to achieve this result:

1. Use scheduled tasks (Task Scheduler)

El windows task scheduler allows you to launch scripts or change settings based on time. There are scripts that change the system theme between light and dark based on a schedule you define. If you want to learn more about how to customize your system's appearance, from how to activate dark mode in Windows 11 or automate it, these methods are ideal.

To automate the change, you can follow these basic steps:

1. Download or create two files of script (for example, using PowerShell) to configure light mode and dark mode respectively.
2. Go to Task Scheduler (search for “Task Scheduler” in the Start menu) and create a new task for each script, setting the desired run time to activate dark mode at night and light mode in the morning.
3. Save each task and make sure the permission settings allow it to run in the background.

It doesn't require installing additional software and offers considerable flexibility in scheduling. There are many guides and scripts ready for PowerShell, for example:

• For dark mode: Set-ItemProperty -Path 'HKCU:\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Themes\Personalize' -Name 'AppsUseLightTheme' -Value 0
• For clear mode: Set-ItemProperty -Path 'HKCU:\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Themes\Personalize' -Name 'AppsUseLightTheme' -Value 1

Requires minimal Windows knowledge and administrator permissions, but it offers a level of customization that the standard option does not cover.

2. Use third-party applications

Some free apps like Auto Dark Mode They allow you to schedule theme changes based on the time of day or even the sunrise and sunset times in your location. These tools are easy to set up:

• Download the app from the official website or the Microsoft Store.
• Choose the times you want the theme to automatically switch between light and dark.
• Some even offer the ability to sync dark mode with sunrise and sunset, using your geographic location to make it even smarter.

Third-party applications are often the most convenient option for users who do not want to deal with scripts. and they work quite well on Windows 11.

Advanced Dark Mode Customization in Windows 11

In addition to changing the color mode, Windows 11 allows you to customize other visual aspects to achieve a consistent experience tailored to your tastes. To do this, you can consult different customization tutorials, such as How to apply dark mode in Word.

Accent colors

El accent color This is the color Windows uses to highlight interactive elements, such as buttons, links, and active windows. You can choose it manually or let the system select it automatically based on your wallpaper.

1. From Settings > Personalization > Colors, go to the accent color section.
2. Choose Automatic if you want Windows to choose one that matches your background, or Manual to select your favorite color from the palette or define a custom one.

You can apply the accent color to the start menu, taskbar, and action center., but also to title bars and window borders for a more uniform look. Note that these options are only available if you have dark or custom mode.

Transparency effects

The function of window transparency Allows certain interface elements, such as the taskbar or menus, to display a slight acrylic blur, giving a sense of depth and modernity.

To activate it, go to Settings > Personalization > Colors and locate the corresponding option. Activate transparency effects to make your desktop look more dynamic. If you notice that the taskbar isn't completely darkened with your current wallpaper, simply choose a darker background to enhance the effect.

Contrast themes and color filters

For those with accessibility needs or looking for maximum customization, Windows 11 integrates contrast themes and color filtersContrast themes adjust colors and text visibility to make it easier for users with limited vision to read and navigate.

On color filters change the screen's palette, making it easier to distinguish between similar colors or helping those who suffer from color blindness. You can configure these settings in Settings> Accessibility.

Automatic color management and color fidelity in Windows 11

For the most demanding users, Automatic color management ensures that colors are always accurate and calibrated throughout the system.This feature is especially useful for creative professionals, designers, and photographers.

1. Accede to Settings > System > Display > Display Profile > Color.
2. Select the desired screen if you have more than one.
3. Activate the option Automatically manage application color to improve color accuracy, even if your monitor only supports 8-bit.

Esto Reduces potential color errors, improves gradients and shadows, and ensures that the visual appearance remains consistent across devices., especially for professional tasks. If you'd like to learn more about how to automatically enable dark mode based on time in Windows 11, you can also check out specialized tutorials.