How to Use or Mimic Dark Mode in Microsoft Excel (Complete Guide)
Changing To The Dark Side Of Excel!
In this article, you’ll learn several effective methods to implement or simulate dark mode in Microsoft Excel. Whether you're looking to reduce eye strain, improve visibility, or prefer a dark interface, we've got easy-to-follow instructions and helpful examples tailored to both beginners and experienced users.
Why Use Dark Mode in Excel?
- Reduces eye strain, especially in low-light environments.
- Enhances focus by highlighting important information.
- Conserves battery life, particularly on OLED screens.
How to Enable Built-In Dark Mode in Excel
Excel has a built-in dark mode feature. Here’s how to activate it:
- Click on File > Options.
- Under the General tab, locate Personalize your copy of Microsoft Office.
- Select Black or Dark Gray from the Office Theme dropdown.
- Click OK to apply changes.
Tip: Built-in dark mode primarily affects the ribbon and interface but may not alter cell backgrounds or worksheet areas.
Excel’s New Enhanced Dark Mode (Beta Feature)
On January 15, 2025, Microsoft introduced an enhanced dark mode feature for Excel that fully supports worksheet backgrounds. Here’s how to enable it:
Step-by-Step Guide
- Ensure your Excel is updated to Version 2502 (Build 18508.20000) or later.
- Navigate to File > Account and confirm your Office Theme is set to either Black or Use system setting.
- Open an existing worksheet or create a new one.
- Select the View tab on the ribbon.
- Click on Switch Modes to toggle between light and dark mode instantly.
Note: To revert back to standard mode, click View > Switch Modes again.
Alt text for image: "Excel dark mode toggle available in the View tab ribbon"
How to Mimic Dark Mode for Worksheets
If built-in dark mode doesn't fully satisfy your needs, you can manually mimic dark mode by adjusting worksheet colors:
Step-by-Step Guide
- Highlight the cells or press Ctrl + A to select the entire worksheet.
- Go to the Home tab, select Fill Color, and choose a dark color (e.g., black or dark gray).
- To enhance readability, change font colors to white or light gray:
- Select cells again.
- Click on the font color dropdown and choose a lighter color.
Tip: Set up a customized dark-mode template to reuse for future Excel workbooks.
Advanced Methods with VBA for Excel Dark Mode
Experienced Excel users can implement VBA scripts to automate dark mode:
Quick VBA Example
- Press ALT + F11 to open the VBA Editor.
- Insert a new module and paste this code:
Sub DarkMode_Toggle()
'PURPOSE: Toggle on/off a dark mode grid format
'SOURCE: www.thespreadsheetguru.com
If Cells.Interior.Color = vbBlack Then
'Undo Dark Mode Grid
Cells.Interior.ColorIndex = xlNone
Cells.Font.ColorIndex = xlAutomatic
Cells.Borders.LineStyle = xlNone
Else
'Set to Dark Mode Grid
Cells.Interior.Color = vbBlack
Cells.Font.Color = vbWhite
Cells.Borders.Color = RGB(89, 89, 89)
End If
End Sub
- Run the macro to convert your worksheet into dark mode.
Note: Ensure macros are enabled in your Excel security settings.
I Hope This Microsoft Excel Article Helped!
Implementing or mimicking dark mode in Excel can significantly enhance productivity and reduce eye strain. Whether you prefer Excel’s built-in dark theme, enhanced dark mode, or a customized solution, these methods provide clear, actionable steps to optimize your workspace.
Apply these techniques today and experience Excel in a refreshing new way!
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Chris Newman
Chris is a finance professional and Excel MVP recognized by Microsoft since 2016. With his expertise, he founded TheSpreadsheetGuru blog to help fellow Excel users, where he shares his vast creative solutions & expertise. In addition, he has developed over 7 widely-used Excel Add-ins that have been embraced by individuals and companies worldwide.