To make Chrome dark mode in Windows 10, the simplest and most common method is to enable the system-wide dark mode setting in Windows.
Here’s how to turn on dark mode for Chrome by changing your Windows 10 settings:
Enable Dark Mode Through Windows 10 Settings
Google Chrome on Windows typically follows your operating system's default app mode. By setting Windows 10 to dark mode, most of your applications, including Chrome, will automatically switch to a dark theme for their user interface.
Steps:
- Open Settings: Click the Start button and then click the Settings icon (the gear). Alternatively, press
Windows key + Ion your keyboard. - Navigate to Personalization: In the Settings window, click on Personalization.
- Select Colors: In the Personalization sidebar, click on Colors.
- Choose Your Mode: Scroll down to the section titled "Choose your default app mode".
- Select "Dark": Click the Dark option.
(As referenced: on Windows 10, go to Settings > Personalization > Colors, and then choose "Dark" under "Choose Your Default App Mode".)
Once you select "Dark", Windows will immediately apply the dark theme to File Explorer, Settings, and other compatible applications. When you open Google Chrome, its interface elements like the title bar, tabs, address bar, menus, and dialog boxes should now appear in dark mode.
Understanding App Modes
Windows 10 offers different default modes for your applications:
| Mode | Description | Effect on Apps (Generally) |
|---|---|---|
| Light | Standard light theme for apps and system elements. | Most apps display with a light background. |
| Dark | Applies a dark theme to the operating system and compatible apps. | Most apps (including Chrome) display darkly. |
| Custom | Allows choosing a separate mode for Windows elements and apps. | Mix and match light/dark for system vs apps. |
Choosing "Dark" under "Choose your default app mode" is the setting that specifically influences apps like Chrome.
Why This Works for Chrome:
Chrome is designed to respect the user's system theme preference on Windows 10. Instead of having its own separate dark mode toggle within the browser settings for the main UI, it adapts to the mode you select in the Windows Colors settings.
Note: This system-wide setting primarily affects Chrome's interface (tabs, menus, etc.). It does not automatically force every website you visit into dark mode. For website dark mode, you might need Chrome extensions or specific website settings.
By following these simple steps in your Windows 10 settings, you can effectively enable dark mode for the Google Chrome browser interface.
