Share this article

Improve this guide

Windows 11 Is Stuck in Dark Mode: 5 Ways to Fix It

Dark Mode is cool, until you accidentally lock yourself out

5 min. read

Updated onApril 12, 2024

updated onApril 12, 2024

Share this article

Improve this guide

Read our disclosure page to find out how can you help Windows Report sustain the editorial teamRead more

Key notes

If you’re using Windows 11, you know you canenable the dark mode feature. Unfortunately, sometimes it can get stuck, and it won’t change back to light mode when you want it to.

This feature gives your screen a cool black look and is particularly helpful for those who don’t like too much brightness. For most people, this isn’t much of a problem. However, some people find it annoying because it makes it harder to see their computer screens.

Why is my computer stuck in dark mode?

Why is my computer stuck in dark mode?

Wondering why your Windows 11 might be stuck in dark mode? Here are some possible causes:

Now that we know why this happens, let’s go to the actual solutions to the problem.

How do I get out of dark mode in Windows 11?

How do I get out of dark mode in Windows 11?

Before getting to the more complex solutions, let’s check some preliminary measures from our list of possible fixes:

If you did all these and still can’t switch to Light mode, apply the solutions below.

1. Disable the High Contrast theme

Once you have disabled high contrast, you can go back and try to change your theme settings to light, then restart your PC.

2. Scan for viruses

Windows Defender provides only basic cybersecurity protection, so it might not detect any new issues. A full scan using a premium antivirus is recommended from time to time.

In that case, we can only recommendESET HOME Security Essential, since it has some of the best features in terms of security protection, anti-malware, and safety.

3. Uninstall recent apps/programs

4. Run DISM and SFC commands

The DISM command can be used to repair corrupt files or add Windows functionality. It is used to install, uninstall, configure, and update Windows features. On the other hand, SFC scans your system for integrity issues and replaces incorrect versions with correct ones.

How do I change the dark mode back to normal?

Is there Auto Dark Mode in Windows 11?

Auto Dark Mode is a feature that automatically adjusts your display’s brightness depending on the time of day and your location. It can be helpful when you’re using your PC in a dark room at night or if you find yourself staring at your screen for hours on end.

You can find it under Night Light settings. It dims the color of your screen in the evening or when you schedule it.

Night Light uses your computer’s display settings to change your screen’s color temperature at night automatically. This helps reduce eye strain and makes it easier to fall asleep after using your PC.

You can set up Night Light to turn on automatically based on the time of day or manually with a button click.

There is also the option toschedule Dark Mode, and the highlighted guide will help you achieve that.

Should the built-in Windows 11 dark theme not satisfy you, you can opt forother dark themesthat offer many more customization options.

Let us know which solution worked for you in the comments section below.

More about the topics:dark mode,Windows 11

Claire Moraa

Windows Software Expert

Claire has a knack for solving problems and improving the quality of life for those around her. She’s driven by rationality, curiosity, and simplicity, and always eager to learn more about Microsoft’s products. With a background in teaching and reviewing, she breaks down complex topics into easily understandable articles, focusing mostly on Windows 11, errors, and software.

User forum

0 messages

Sort by:LatestOldestMost Votes

Comment*

Name*

Email*

Commenting as.Not you?

Save information for future comments

Comment

Δ

Claire Moraa

Windows Software Expert

With a background in teaching and reviewing, she breaks down complex topics into easily understandable articles, focusing mostly on Windows 11 errors.