Phone settings rarely spark debate. Maybe you have that one friend who swears the rear camera is the only way to take good selfies. Even then, it’s unlikely you’ve had an in-depth and meaningful discussion about it. But there’s something about Light Mode and Dark Mode on phones and other devices that seems to touch a tech nerve.
Just like when you’re standing in the weights section in a gym, everyone loves to throw out an unsolicited opinion about what you’re doing wrong. And that’s both sides of the debate. Those ardent Dark Mode fans talk about it like – ironically – they’ve seen the light, while those who profess Light Mode is better will usually say Dark Mode is just a fad.
So, this isn’t an article to change your mind by declaring a “winner”. Whatever way you set up your tech, if it works for you, continue to do it. Instead, let’s look at some ways you might find either mode beneficial.
What is Light Mode?
It’s the default display setting for most websites, devices and apps – and many interfaces we use daily have been optimised for Light Mode. It’s typified by a light background and dark text. Why is it the default, you ask? Well, it mirrors the readability of black ink on white paper, which has been the standard in print publications like books and newspapers for decades.
But it’s hardly a case of “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”. According to designers, Light Mode’s high-contrast light background means text pops out. They say this makes it easier for you to focus and understand what you’re reading. It also mimics the natural light of daytime, which can help boost productivity.
Why should I use Light Mode?
It’s not just designers preaching about the positives of Light Mode. One study claimed that using this mode – or positive contrast polarity, if we want to talk like scientists for a second – enhances reading comprehension and proofreading performance, especially in well-lit environments. It’s also linked to faster reading speed thanks to the higher contrast, making it a great option for daytime reading and work.
Another study said Light Mode can also have a positive psychological impact, potentially enhancing mood and creativity. This report concluded that bright light that resembles daylight conditions can stimulate alertness and creativity, promoting a more positive mood and less fatigue in these environments.
What is Dark Mode?
Dark Mode, as you’d expect, flips the design of Light Mode, offering a dark background (such as black or dark grey) with light text. While Dark Mode isn’t anything new – remember checking the lottery numbers or football scores on the black screens of Teletext? – negative contrast polarity has seen a resurgence in recent years.
Dark Mode is meant to reduce the light emitted by your device’s screen while maintaining the minimum colour contrast ratios required for readability. Its softer colour scheme supposedly cuts down on eye strain in some environments and provides a comforting retreat from the blinding light of most standard interfaces and screens.
When should I use Dark Mode?
Dark Mode is especially helpful for users dealing with visual impairments or challenges like astigmatism, dyslexia or photophobia. But that doesn’t mean it can’t benefit everyone. For example, one study found that Dark Mode can decrease eye strain in dim lighting and reduce the risk of developing symptoms of computer vision syndrome.
A Harvard Medical School study also found that exposure to blue light at night can suppress melatonin production, affecting sleep quality. Dark mode reduces blue light exposure.
An increased focus on work, particularly for those working at night or in dimly lit spaces, is another benefit due to the reduction in light. On OLED and AMOLED screens, Dark Mode has also been shown to consume less power.
Maintaining the minimum colour contrast ratios required for readability has also been shown to have a calming effect that reduces the cognitive load.
Light Mode or Dark Mode: the verdict
We’ll end as we started: we’re not here to tell you everything you are doing is wrong – you have friends and family for that. If you use Light Mode without any issues, carry on. Equally, if you’ve been using Dark Mode and found it beneficial, stick with it. For most of us, it’s about personal preference and habit.
But there is good evidence about when different modes can be beneficial. Light Mode is good when you’re surrounded by bright, ambient light and need to concentrate on a task. Dark Mode is useful when you’re in low light conditions or you have tired eyes you’re trying not to irritate – it’s why Dark Mode is sometimes called “Night Mode”.
Remember, neither mode is magic or an antidote to screen fatigue. So, always make sure you take regular breaks and downtime from your screens to rest your eyes and keep your productivity levels high.
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Published: 11 November 2024