Enable Dark Mode in Notepad++ (Simple Guide)

Are your eyes tired of staring at bright screens while coding late into the night? Notepad++ dark mode might be the solution you’ve been looking for.

Indeed, this popular feature transforms the classic text editor’s interface into a sleek, eye-friendly dark theme that reduces eye strain and enhances focus.  

To get started, here is a quick step-by-step guide to enable Notepad++ dark mode on Windows:

• Launch Notepad++.

• Click on “Settings” in the top menu bar.

• Select “Style Configurator” from the dropdown menu.

• Look for the “Select theme” dropdown menu.

• Notepad++ offers a built-in dark theme called “Deep Black.” Select this option for a classic dark look.

Throughout this post, we’ll explore in detail how to enable dark mode in Notepad++, its numerous benefits, and why it has become a must-have feature for developers and writers alike.  

How to set up Notepad++ dark mode on Windows 10/11 ?

Notepad++ offers a variety of customization options, including the ability to change its background color and overall theme. Among these options, one of the most popular choices among users is the dark mode, which transforms the interface into a sleek, eye-friendly dark theme.

Fortunately, enabling Notepad++ dark mode is a simple process that involves adjusting a few settings within the application.

Now, let’s walk through the steps to activate this feature and give your coding environment a stylish, low-light makeover:

Using the Style Configurator

• Launch Notepad++: First, open Notepad++ on your Windows 10/11 machine.

• Access Settings: Next, click on the “Settings” menu in the top menu bar.

• Open Style Configurator: Then, from the dropdown menu under “Settings,” select “Style Configurator.”

• Choose Your Dark Theme: After that, locate the “Select theme” dropdown menu within the Style Configurator window.

• Classic Dark Look: Select the built-in theme named “Deep Black” for a standard dark interface.

• (Optional) Explore Themes: Notepad++ offers more than just “Deep Black.” These themes provide various color schemes and styles:

• Experiment with different themes available in the “Select theme” dropdown.

• Want even more variety? Search online for custom Notepad++ themes that you can download and install.

• Save and Enjoy: Finally, once you’ve chosen your theme (including “Deep Black” for dark mode), click the “Save & Close” button at the bottom of the Style Configurator window.

Also Check: How to enable Windows 11 dark mode ?

Using a Custom Theme

Download a Custom Dark Theme:

• First, download a custom dark theme file (with a .xml extension) from a trusted source.

Copy Theme File:

• Second, navigate to the Notepad++ installation directory, usually found in C:\Program Files\Notepad++\themes.

• Then, copy the downloaded .xml theme file into the themes folder.

Open Notepad++: After that, launch the application.

Access Style Configurator:

• Subsequently, go to the top menu and click on Settings.

• Then, select Style Configurator from the dropdown menu.

Select Custom Theme:

• Now, in the Style Configurator window, find the Select theme dropdown at the top.

• Then, choose the custom theme you added.

• Finally, click Save & Close.

Restart Notepad++:

• In last, for the changes to take full effect, it is recommended to restart Notepad++.

Also Check: How to record screen on Windows 11 ?

Using the Dark Mode Plugin

Open Notepad++: To begin, launch the application.

Access Plugin Admin:

• Next, go to the top menu and click on Plugins.

• Then, select Plugin Admin from the dropdown menu.

Install Dark Mode Plugin:

• After that, in the Plugin Admin window, search for a dark mode plugin like DarkMode.

• Once found, check the box next to the plugin name and click Install.

Enable Dark Mode Plugin:

• Subsequently, once installed, go back to the Plugins menu.

• Then, find the dark mode plugin and enable it.

Configure Dark Mode Plugin:

• Follow the plugin-specific instructions to configure the dark mode settings.

• Lastly, restart Notepad++: For the changes to take full effect, it is recommended to restart Notepad++.  

Also Check: How to get old right click menu in Windows 11 ?

Conclusion

Embracing Notepad++ dark mode is a simple yet effective way to enhance your coding or writing experience. Indeed, whether you prefer the built-in “Deep Black” theme, a custom dark theme, or a specialized dark mode plugin, there’s an option to suit every user’s needs.

Moreover, by reducing eye strain and creating a more comfortable working environment, dark mode can significantly improve your productivity and focus, especially during those late-night coding sessions.

Above all, remember, the beauty of Notepad++ lies in its flexibility. Therefore, don’t hesitate to experiment with different themes and settings until you find the perfect balance for your eyes and workflow.

Finally, with dark mode activated, you’re now ready to tackle your projects with renewed comfort and style.

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