How to turn on dark mode on a Mac

2 min read · 4 steps · Updated 2 October 2026

Short answer

Open System Settings, click Appearance and choose Dark. Choose Auto if you want the Mac to switch to dark in the evening and back to light in the morning.

Dark mode gives the menu bar, windows and most apps a dark background with light text. Many people find it easier on the eyes at night.

These steps are for recent versions of macOS, where the settings app is called System Settings. The pictures are simplified diagrams, not screenshots.

Step by step

  1. Open System Settings

    Click the Apple menu in the top left corner and choose System Settings.

  2. GeneralAccessibilityAppearanceMenu BarDesktop & DockDisplaysWallpaperBluetoothAppearanceLightDarkAutoAccent colour

    Click Appearance

    It is in the list on the left.

  3. GeneralAccessibilityAppearanceMenu BarDesktop & DockDisplaysWallpaperBluetoothAppearanceLightDarkAutoAccent colour

    Choose Dark

    The whole system changes straight away.

  4. GeneralAccessibilityAppearanceMenu BarDesktop & DockDisplaysWallpaperBluetoothAppearanceLightDarkAutoAccent colour

    Or choose Auto

    With Auto, the Mac uses the light look during the day and the dark look after sunset.

Good to know

The quick way: open Control Centre in the menu bar, click Display and click Dark Mode.

Some apps have their own setting. In Mail, you can keep messages on a light background under Mail, Settings, Viewing.

Websites turn dark only if they support it.

Dark mode does not reduce blue light. For a warmer screen at night, see how to turn on Night Shift.

In short: System Settings, Appearance, Dark or Auto.

Sources
  • Apple Support: Use a light or dark appearance on your Mac

Rules and prices change. Check the official source before you act.