Writer:
Elise Yamada
Dark mode isn’t just aesthetic—it’s functional.
Dark interfaces reduce eye strain, save battery on OLED, and provide a sleek, modern feel. But they also introduce new challenges in contrast, elevation, and color usage.
The Science Behind It
At night or in low-light environments, bright UIs can be jarring. Dark UIs provide comfort and accessibility—but only if done right.
What Designers Often Miss
Pure black causes harsh contrast
Brand colors must be adjusted for legibility
Shadows and elevation behave differently on dark backgrounds
Best Practices for Dark UI
Use dark gray (not pure black) for backgrounds
Adjust primary colors for vibrancy in dark context
Test accessibility contrast at every layer
1. Test Both Modes Together
Design light and dark as part of the same system—not separately.
2. Use Semantic Tokens
Set background-default instead of #fff so you can theme easily.
3. Avoid Glow Overuse
Subtle shadows work better than neon glows in dark mode.
4. Keep Typography Sharp
Light text on dark UI must be weighted carefully to prevent blurring.
Don’t Forget the Environment
Dark UIs perform best at night. Consider user context and provide a toggle or auto-detection.
Final Thoughts
Dark mode is a design commitment. When done right, it enhances experience—not just aesthetics.
