How to Enable Google Docs Dark Mode: Complete Guide (2025)

One of the most popular online writing tools is Google Docs. It is easy to use, cost-free, and compatible with nearly all devices. However, it might be exhausting to spend hours staring at a bright white screen. For this reason, a lot of users prefer Google Docs dark mode. In addition to saving battery life and reducing eye strain, dark mode can improve the comfort of late-night writing.

In this guide, you will discover how to activate dark mode in Google Docs on your desktop and mobile device. You’ll also learn several tips to improve your writing experience and the advantages of adopting dark mode.

What Is Google Docs Dark Mode?

Google Docs dark mode is a feature that changes the default white background to a darker shade. The text appears light, usually white or gray, against a dark background. This setup is called Google Docs Dark Mode.

Dark mode is not just about style. When the screen is less bright, many people find it easier to concentrate. It has a big impact on users who write at night.

Why Use Google Docs Dark Mode?

1. Reduced Eye Strain

Bright screens can hurt your eyes, especially in low-light settings. Dark mode lowers the contrast between your screen and the environment.

2. Better Focus

Many writers say they can focus more when using Google Docs dark mode. The darker background helps the text stand out.

3. Longer Battery Life

If you use a laptop or mobile device with an OLED display, dark mode can extend your battery life. That’s because dark pixels use less power.

4. Comfortable Night Writing

When working late, a bright screen can keep you awake longer. Dark mode feels softer and can help reduce sleep disruption.

How to Enable Google Docs Dark Mode on Desktop

Currently, Google Docs does not have a built-in dark mode for desktop. But here we will teach you some methods to enable it with Chrome. You may want to read our guide to learn how to download Google Chrome for PC, Mac, and Mobile before we start.

Method 1: Using Desktop Browser Settings (Using Chrome)

Step 1. Open Google Chrome > Choose Settings > Appearance

Step 2. Find Mode > Click to open the tab on the right > Select Dark. Your browser will now be in dark mode.

Please note: Even after completing the steps above, only the browser’s status bar will switch to dark theme. Your Google Docs interface may not change at all. In that case, you may need to follow the second method below. We’ll guide you step by step. It’s very simple.

Method 2: Using Experimental or Advanced Settings

Step 1. Enter “chrome://flags” in the address bar.

Step 2. After pressing the Enter key, the following interface will appear. If needed, you can read the reminders on this page.

Step 3. Type “dark mode” in the search bar > Press Enter to reveal the option “Auto Dark Mode for Web Contents”.

Step 4. Expand the drop-down menu on the right and select Enabled. (If you are unfamiliar with other options, avoid clicking them to prevent unintended effects on your browser.)

Step 5. After clicking, a Relaunch button will appear in the bottom-right corner of this page. Clicking it will cause your browser to restart briefly. Don’t worry – any windows you had open before will remain open after restarting.

Step 6. Switch to dark mode. Your Google Docs interface will now appear in dark mode. You can begin creating or editing.

How to Enable Google Docs Dark Mode on Mobile

Unlike the desktop version, the Google Docs mobile app features a built-in dark mode that you can toggle on or off as needed. Since the steps are identical across Android and iOS systems, we’ll use iOS as an example to walk you through the process step by step:

Step 1. Open the Google Docs app and tap on the three-bar menu icon on the top left.

Step 2. Select Settings from the menu.

Step 3. Tap Settings > Theme.

Step 4. Select Dark.

Step 5. After that, the app interface will turn dark, indicating you’ve successfully enabled Google Docs dark mode on your mobile device.

Also Read: How to Turn on YouTube Dark Mode on PC/Mac/Android/iPhone

Other Tips for Using Google Docs Dark Mode

• Use Browser Extension: What are browser extensions? Once you know, you can find it in Chrome Extensions – Google Docs dark mode. It adds a button to your Google Docs interface. Simply click this button to switch to dark mode.
• Modify Brightness: There is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to dark mode. Make your screen a little brighter if it’s too dark.
• Alternate Modes: You may prefer light mode during the day. Return to dark mode at night.
• Use larger fonts since small fonts on dark backgrounds might be difficult to read. For easier reading, enlarge the font.
• Verify Document Sharing: Dark mode simply modifies your perspective of the document, not that of others. The standard white background will be visible to others when sharing.

FAQs – Google Docs Dark Mode

1. How do I switch back from dark mode to light mode in Google Docs?

You can change it anytime. On mobile, go to Settings > Theme > Light. On desktop, disable the dark mode extension or Chrome’s dark mode in experimental settings.

2. Does dark mode change how others see my shared documents?

No. It only affects how you view the document. Collaborators will still see the regular white background unless they also enable dark mode.

3. Can I use dark mode in Google Docs offline?

Yes. Dark mode will still work. Just make sure your browser or app settings are updated.

4. Why doesn’t Google Docs have a built-in dark mode for desktop?

Google has only released native dark mode for the mobile app. On a desktop, you need to use Chrome flags or extensions.