Web Trends: What Is the Dark Mode?

Web Trends: What Is the Dark Mode?

Earlier this year, we wrote an article about the most important web design trends for 2024. Among the ones we presented were collages and abstract art, color gradients, and a retro touch. What about the dark mode? More and more apps and websites offer this option. Let us see more closely what the dark mode is and how you can use it on your website.

What is the dark mode?

The dark mode, also called dark theme, is a feature available on the internet that allows one to reverse the white backgrounds for black ones. Indeed, this option is available on many popular websites like Google or Facebook. With just one click, the white backgrounds become black, and the black texts become white. This option can be found in the website or application’s settings if it interests you.

What are the benefits of using the dark mode online?

Since the dark mode is increasingly used nowadays, what are its benefits? Is it because black is the color of the year, or are there actual advantages to choosing this feature?

It prevents eye fatigue

First, the dark mode allows for decreased eye fatigue, which is a benefit if you need to use your computer or browse the internet for extended periods. Eye fatigue can present in various forms: tired feeling, dry eyes, trouble concentrating, blurred vision, and even headaches. 

Bright white backgrounds seem to impact eye health, especially when using a computer for several hours. Choosing the dark mode would allow to decrease this impact. Besides using a dark theme, taking breaks and blinking frequently is recommended to avoid eye fatigue.

It allows to use less energy

On another note, the dark mode would also help use less energy. Indeed, white or light-colored backgrounds request more energy because of the brightness. Choosing a darker background decreases the luminous intensity needed, allowing you to use less energy. It could be something relevant if you use your smartphone or laptop to work.

Moreover, it is important to remember that not all websites or apps provide a dark mode option. The benefits may vary from one user to another.

It is currently trendy

As we mentioned before, the dark mode is one of the most important trends of 2024. Besides all the benefits we just presented, black remains a timeless and classic color. It is something to consider if you want your website or online store to look elegant. Black also allows you to stand out from other sites since it is not the most used color for the background most of the time.

If you feel that black is not the perfect color to represent your business values, you could also opt for a darker tone. For better results, your website color palette should have lighter and darker colors in order to have sufficient contrasts.

How to use the dark mode as an inspiration when designing your website

Now that we have determined the primary benefits of dark mode, how can you use it on your website or be inspired by it? Since not all website builders offer the possibility of getting a regular version and a dark theme, you need to adapt the main components of your website to get an interesting result.

First, if you simply want to have a dark-colored website, start by choosing a black hue. Unlike what we may think, there are several shades of black; some are darker, while others can be more grey. You need to check which one works best with what you have in mind. It is also possible to use darker backgrounds in some places and lighter ones elsewhere.

Then, the second most crucial element if you want to get the benefits of a dark theme is the color and font of the text. You likely already know that white is the opposite color of black. Therefore, you must use white or a light color to ease the readability with a darker background. Once more, contrasts make a huge difference. And then there is the question of the font. One of the disadvantages of using a dark mode is that you must choose a rather bold font for better results. More delicate typographies could be more challenging to read. Do several tests if needed.

If you need more inspiration, do not hesitate to look at many types of websites. For example, you could go on Pinterest or check the available website templates on WebSelf. Many designs were created with dark backgrounds.

In conclusion, there are many benefits to using a dark mode when browsing the internet. You only need to check the settings to see if this option is available. In addition, do not hesitate to be inspired by this trend when creating your own website. Besides adding an elegant and modern touch, it will help you provide a better user experience to your visitors.