Home customization tips & tricks windows 10 windows 11

Windows 11/10 Pro Tip: Seamlessly Switch Between Light & Dark Mode via Context Menu

Updated: • 0 • min read
Table of Contents

Switching between light and dark mode in Windows 11 and 10 can enhance user experience by reducing eye strain in low-light conditions and offering a visually appealing interface. While Windows offers built-in settings to toggle between these modes, accessing them through the Settings app can sometimes be less efficient for users who frequently switch themes. This article explores a more streamlined approach: adding context menu options to directly toggle between light and dark modes for both Windows and Apps. This customization allows for quicker and more convenient theme switching, directly from the desktop with a simple right-click.

Understanding Light and Dark Mode in Windows

Windows 11 and 10 provide users with the flexibility to personalize their visual experience through light and dark modes. These modes affect the overall appearance of the operating system, including the taskbar, Start Menu, File Explorer, and built-in applications.

  • Light Mode: The default setting, light mode presents a bright and airy interface with light backgrounds and dark text. It is generally considered more suitable for well-lit environments and daytime use.
  • Dark Mode: Dark mode reverses the color scheme, featuring dark backgrounds and light text. This mode is often preferred in dimly lit environments or at night, as it can reduce eye strain and minimize blue light emission, potentially improving sleep quality.

Windows further refines theme customization by separating the mode settings for Windows elements and applications. This separation allows users to independently control the theme of the operating system interface and the applications they use. For example, one could use dark mode for applications while maintaining light mode for the Windows interface, or vice versa. This granular control caters to diverse user preferences and specific application needs.

Adding Context Menu Options for Theme Switching

By default, changing between light and dark mode requires navigating through the Settings app, specifically to Personalization > Colors. While functional, this method can be time-consuming for users who frequently switch themes. A more efficient approach involves adding options directly to the desktop context menu. This customization allows users to switch between light and dark mode with a simple right-click on the desktop, significantly speeding up the process.

This enhancement is achieved by modifying the Windows Registry. The Registry is a hierarchical database that stores low-level settings for the Microsoft Windows operating system and for applications that opt to use the Registry. By adding specific keys and values, we can extend the functionality of the context menu.

Caution: Modifying the Windows Registry incorrectly can cause serious problems that may require you to reinstall your operating system. It is crucial to back up your Registry before making any changes. Additionally, creating a System Restore point is highly recommended, allowing you to revert your system to a previous state if any issues arise.

Step-by-step Guide to Add Toggle Options

The process involves creating and executing .reg files. These files contain Registry commands that automate the process of adding the necessary keys and values. We will create two sets of .reg files: one for toggling the Windows mode and another for toggling the App mode.

Creating .reg files

  1. Open Notepad: The first step is to open Notepad, a simple text editor included with Windows. You can find it by searching for “Notepad” in the Start Menu.

  2. Paste the Registry Code for Windows Mode: Copy and paste the following code into the Notepad window. This code will add “Windows mode” to your context menu, with sub-options for “Light theme” and “Dark theme.”

Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\DesktopBackground\Shell\WindowsMode]
"Icon"="themecpl.dll,-1"
"MUIVerb"="Windows mode"
"Position"="Bottom"
"SubCommands"=""

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\DesktopBackground\Shell\WindowsMode\shell\001flyout]
"MUIVerb"="Light theme"
"Icon"="imageres.dll,-5411"

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\DesktopBackground\Shell\WindowsMode\shell\001flyout\command]
@="Reg Add HKCU\\SOFTWARE\\Microsoft\\Windows\\CurrentVersion\\Themes\\Personalize /v SystemUsesLightTheme /t REG_DWORD /d 1 /f"

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\DesktopBackground\Shell\WindowsMode\shell\002flyout]
"Icon"="imageres.dll,-5412"
"MUIVerb"="Dark theme"

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\DesktopBackground\Shell\WindowsMode\shell\002flyout\command]
@="Reg Add HKCU\\SOFTWARE\\Microsoft\\Windows\\CurrentVersion\\Themes\\Personalize /v SystemUsesLightTheme /t REG_DWORD /d 0 /f"

  1. Save the Windows Mode file:

    • Click on File in the Notepad menu, and select Save As.
    • Choose a location to save the file (e.g., Desktop for easy access).
    • In the File name field, type windowsmode.reg. It’s crucial to use the .reg extension.
    • In the Save as type dropdown, select All Files (*.*).
    • Click Save.

  2. Paste the Registry Code for App Mode: Create a new Notepad window (File > New) and copy and paste the following code. This code adds “App mode” to your context menu with sub-options for “Light theme” and “Dark theme.”

Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\DesktopBackground\Shell\AppMode]
"Icon"="themecpl.dll,-1"
"MUIVerb"="App mode"
"Position"="Bottom"
"SubCommands"=""

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\DesktopBackground\Shell\AppMode\shell\001flyout]
"MUIVerb"="Light theme"
"Icon"="imageres.dll,-5411"

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\DesktopBackground\Shell\AppMode\shell\001flyout\command]
@="Reg Add HKCU\\SOFTWARE\\Microsoft\\Windows\\CurrentVersion\\Themes\\Personalize /v AppsUseLightTheme /t REG_DWORD /d 1 /f"

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\DesktopBackground\Shell\AppMode\shell\002flyout]
"Icon"="imageres.dll,-5412"
"MUIVerb"="Dark theme"

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\DesktopBackground\Shell\AppMode\shell\002flyout\command]
@="Reg Add HKCU\\SOFTWARE\\Microsoft\\Windows\\CurrentVersion\\Themes\\Personalize /v AppsUseLightTheme /t REG_DWORD /d 0 /f"
  1. Save the App Mode file:
    • Follow the same saving procedure as for the Windows Mode file.
    • In the File name field, type appmode.reg.
    • Ensure Save as type is set to All Files (*.*).
    • Click Save.

Executing the .reg files

  1. Locate the .reg files: Find the windowsmode.reg and appmode.reg files you saved.

  2. Run the .reg files: Double-click on each .reg file one at a time.

  3. Registry Editor Prompt: Windows will display a warning message from the Registry Editor asking if you are sure you want to continue. Click Yes to proceed.

  4. Confirmation Message: You should receive a confirmation message stating that the keys and values have been successfully added to the registry. Click OK.

  5. Verify the Context Menu: Right-click on an empty area of your desktop. You should now see new options in the context menu: “Windows mode” and “App mode.” Hovering over these options will reveal sub-menus with “Light theme” and “Dark theme” choices.

Windows mode dark mode

Using the Context Menu Toggle

Once the .reg files have been executed and the options are added to the context menu, switching between light and dark mode becomes incredibly simple:

  1. Right-click on the desktop: Right-click anywhere on your desktop background to open the context menu.

  2. Select “Windows mode” or “App mode”: Hover over either “Windows mode” or “App mode” depending on whether you want to change the theme for the Windows interface or applications.

  3. Choose “Light theme” or “Dark theme”: In the submenu that appears, click on “Light theme” to switch to light mode or “Dark theme” to switch to dark mode.

The theme will change instantaneously after you select your desired option. You can switch back and forth as needed with just a few clicks, providing a very convenient way to manage your Windows and application themes.

Removing the Context Menu Options

If you decide to remove the context menu options for toggling light and dark mode, you can do so by deleting the corresponding Registry keys.

  1. Open Registry Editor: Press Win + R keys to open the Run dialog, type regedit, and press Enter.

  2. Navigate to the Shell Key: In the Registry Editor, navigate to the following path in the left-hand pane:

    HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\DesktopBackground\Shell

  3. Delete “WindowsMode” Key (if added):

    • Look for the key named WindowsMode under the Shell key.
    • Right-click on WindowsMode and select Delete.
    • Confirm the deletion by clicking Yes in the confirmation dialog.

  4. Delete “AppMode” Key (if added):

    • Look for the key named AppMode under the Shell key.
    • Right-click on AppMode and select Delete.
    • Confirm the deletion by clicking Yes in the confirmation dialog.

  5. Close Registry Editor: Once you have deleted the keys, close the Registry Editor. The “Windows mode” and “App mode” options will be removed from your desktop context menu. The changes are immediate and do not require a system restart.

Alternative Method: Using Windows Settings

While the context menu method offers a quick shortcut, the standard method for toggling between light and dark mode in Windows remains through the Settings app. This method is straightforward and does not involve editing the Registry, making it a safer option for less technical users.

  1. Open Settings: Press Win + I keys to open the Settings app.

  2. Navigate to Personalization: Click on Personalization.

  3. Select Colors: In the Personalization settings, click on Colors.

  4. Choose your mode:

    • Under “Choose your mode,” use the dropdown menu to select either Light or Dark for the overall Windows mode.
    • Under “Choose your default app mode,” use the dropdown menu to select either Light or Dark for application mode.

These settings will apply immediately, changing the theme of Windows and/or your applications as selected. This method is officially supported by Windows and is a reliable way to manage your theme preferences.

Advantages of Context Menu Toggle

Adding theme toggle options to the context menu provides several benefits:

  • Efficiency: Faster switching between light and dark modes compared to navigating through Settings.
  • Convenience: Theme switching is accessible directly from the desktop with a simple right-click.
  • Customization: Enhances user control and personalization of the Windows environment.
  • Productivity: Quick access to theme switching can improve workflow by adapting the display to different lighting conditions.

Conclusion

Customizing the context menu to include light and dark mode toggles is a powerful way to streamline your Windows experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can add these convenient options and enjoy faster, more accessible theme switching. While modifying the Registry requires caution, the provided .reg files simplify the process and offer a significant improvement in usability for users who frequently alternate between light and dark themes. For users less comfortable with Registry edits, the standard Settings app method remains a reliable alternative. Ultimately, choosing the method that best suits your needs and technical comfort level will enhance your overall Windows experience.

Feel free to share your experiences or ask any questions in the comments below!

Post a Comment