◐ Theme Detection

Am I Using Dark Mode?

Instantly detect if your browser or OS is set to dark mode or light mode. Check your prefers-color-scheme media query.

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Your system color scheme
prefers-color-scheme
prefers-contrast
prefers-reduced-motion
forced-colors

What is dark mode?

Dark mode is a display setting that uses light-colored text on dark backgrounds. It reduces eye strain in low-light environments and can significantly reduce battery usage on OLED displays (by up to 30–60% at full brightness).

Most operating systems and browsers expose your preference via the CSS media query prefers-color-scheme: dark, which websites use to automatically switch their color theme.

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How dark mode detection works

Browsers expose your OS theme preference through the CSS media query prefers-color-scheme. JavaScript reads this to automatically adapt page colors. This works without IP or GPS data, reading directly from your OS display settings.

Dark mode and battery life

On OLED and AMOLED displays (most modern smartphones), dark mode reduces battery consumption by 20-60% at high brightness because black pixels are completely off on OLED. On LCD displays the backlight stays on regardless, so dark mode offers minimal battery benefit.

How do I enable dark mode? +
Windows: Settings > Personalization > Colors > Dark. macOS: System Settings > Appearance > Dark. iOS and Android: Settings > Display > Dark Mode.
Does dark mode save battery? +
Yes on OLED and AMOLED screens where black pixels draw zero power, saving up to 60% at full brightness. Minimal effect on LCD screens.
What is prefers-color-scheme? +
A CSS media query that reads your OS dark or light preference, letting websites automatically match your system theme.
Can websites detect my dark mode? +
Yes. Any site can read prefers-color-scheme. It is a minor fingerprinting signal contributing to your browser unique profile.