Should you use dark mode on your browser? Perhaps.
About 20 years ago, I read something (probably in an airplane magazine) about dark screens being better for your eyes. The theory was that using dark mode, you are pumping less light into your eyes which…I guess…is supposed to be better for them?
Today I actually decided to Google this, and here’s what I found.
Dark Mode is the Way
Dark mode on browsers and devices can be healthier for your eyes, especially in low-light environments. By reducing the overall brightness and minimizing the amount of blue light emitted, dark mode can decrease eye strain and fatigue. When using dark mode, the contrast between the text and the background is often easier on the eyes, making it more comfortable for extended reading or browsing sessions, particularly at night. This can also help reduce the disruption of circadian rhythms caused by excessive blue light, potentially improving sleep quality.
Maybe Dark Mode is Not the Way
However, in bright or well-lit environments, dark mode can actually cause more strain because the pupil dilates in response to the darker screen, making it harder to focus and read smaller text. Another downside is that prolonged use of dark mode may lead to decreased productivity in tasks requiring attention to fine detail or color differentiation, as the perception of contrast and color accuracy is reduced.
Do You Want it Everywhere?
Lots of web sites have a widget somewhere on their page where can click and switch modes. But doing that for every site you visit (especially when it’s different on each one!) is painful.
If you’re like 2 out of 3 people, you use Google Chrome for your web browser, and Chrome comes with a “global dark mode” flag that will turn on dark mode nearly everywhere, in one easy-to-flip switch.
Browser to chrome://flags
In that Search field, enter Dark:
Enable it and you’re good to go.
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I also enjoy using LEBs! I have an empire of little guys for VPNs, larger guys for apps, and big guys for databases and storage. When I'm not in front a screen I'm into German Shepherd dogs, quality knives, target shooting, theology, tabletop roleplaying games, and forest hiking.
I enjoy writing technical articles here on LowEndBox to help people get more out of their systems. You can find me on LowEndTalk @raindog308
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