Dark Mode vs. Light Mode: Which One Is Better for UX?

We spend an average of 6 hours and 40 minutes daily on screens. That’s quite huge. Therefore, it has become essential for us to choose the correct mode for UI/UX Design & Development. UX typically offers two modes: dark mode and light mode. Dark mode has a dark background with a light foreground, while light mode has a bright background and dark text. But which one of the two provides optimal user experience (UX)? Let’s break down the two regarding readability, eye strain, battery usage, aesthetic appeal, accessibility, and usability.

What is Dark Mode?

Dark mode is also called night mode. It utilizes a darker color set and lighter text features. In any user interface design, deciding to go with either Dark Mode or Light Mode is a decision that impacts the overall User Experience (UX), and it most definitely goes beyond aesthetic appeal. Its primary purpose is to minimize eye strain, provide better battery performance on specific screens, and present an attractive design in dark environments.

What is Light Mode?

Light mode is the traditional display setting. Users can see dark text over a white or lightly colored background. This view simulates a printed sheet of paper. As a result, it is very easy to read when there is adequate lighting.

Dark Mode vs. Light Mode: A quick overview!

The table below highlights the key differences between dark mode and light mode based on UX factors:
Factor Dark Mode Light Mode
Eye Strain Reduces strain in low light but can cause issues in bright settings Comfortable for reading in bright environments but may cause strain at night
Readability Works well for short text but can be difficult for long passages Easier to read long-form content
Battery Life Extends battery life on OLED/AMOLED screens Consumes more power regardless of screen type
Aesthetic Appeal It looks modern and sleek, preferred by many tech users Classic and professional, widely accepted in corporate settings
Accessibility It may be harder to read for users with astigmatism It provides better visibility for most users

Dark Mode vs. Light Mode in UX Design: A Brief Explanation

Research conducted by Android Authority shows that people using devices with screens are overwhelmingly sitting at 81.9% when it comes to a preference towards dark mode. At the same time, light mode is still the most used setting in most devices due to the countless applications designed around light mode. Selecting one can be a bit daunting.

1. Understanding Readability in UX Design

Regarding design, “readability and seamlessness” are the deeply empathized aspects of your user’s experience while using your digital product. In addition, this is the premise on which the Light Mode and Dark Mode debate circles around, as there is user performance, comprehension, and satisfaction, which are quite a lot to balance.
Light Mode: A Beacon of Clarity
With increased readability and task performance, light mode’s purpose is not just to have a bright screen but to increase the performance of a range of tasks. Users can effortlessly focus and comprehend what they are reading thanks to the text standing out in contrast to the background.
Normal eye-sighted individuals will have Light Mode to commit fewer errors and acquire information quickly. The result is a far more productive experience online for the user.
Dark Mode: A Comforting Alternative – Yes!
Dark Mode competes with other modes but does not only do that. It’s intended for people suffering from optic ailments such as photophobia and dyslexia, as well as astigmatism, shielding them from the overwhelming glare of regular interfaces.

2. Eye Strain

Dark mode is preferred at night because it minimizes eye strain, is easier on the eyes, and feels comfortable with low light. However, when in daylight, this mode can cause more strain on the eyes. This is the opposite of how Light mode operates. By definition, it is more efficient to use during the day, but fatigue is likely over long sessions with bright screens.

3. Battery Life

Dark mode provides better power efficiency on OLED and AMOLED screens because the black pixels draw less power. The same does not go for LCD. It makes little to no difference in battery consumption. On the other hand, dark mode is less efficient than light mode since white pixels use full-back lighting. If battery saving is essential, dark mode is a better option for devices with OLED screens.

4. Aesthetic Appeal

In editing, gamers, developers, and designers utilize dark mode because it has an eye-catching and modern look. It enhances the visibility of rich content. Light mode is used in business and professional settings as it has a clean and fresh appeal. This is why most websites and applications use it as the recommended setting.

5. Accessibility

Light mode can benefit people who have vision impairment because of the stark difference it brings. Those users will notice black text against a white background brings everything into focus. For users with astigmatism, dark mode can be challenging, as text might look faded. From an accessibility viewpoint, light mode is typically the best.
Dark Mode vs. Light Mode- Which One Is Better for UX

6. Focus and Productivity

Dark mode is beneficial in getting work done in distracting environments, especially low-lit ones. Programmers and creatives often use it in other fields because they work for extended periods. However, light mode is ideal when reading, writing, or editing extensive text documents. It is less taxing on the mind.

7. Usage in Different Environments

A dark mode is best suited for nighttime or dim environments. It reduces blue light contact, which is gentler on the eyes when going to sleep. Light mode is more appropriate for the day and well-lit places. It is more readable in the sun and limits the chances of getting strained in a lit place.

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Exiliensoft, a trusted digital agency, provides custom apps, software, and web development services. Our team of skilled designers creates appealing and user-friendly designs tailored to your needs. Our expert team analyzes your audience and selects the best mode for maximum usability. With advanced technology and deep industry knowledge, we design sleek, accessible, and high-performing interfaces. Our solutions prioritize comfort, clarity, and efficiency, whether in dark or light mode. Let Exiliensoft enhance your digital experience with a professional UX design that fits your brand and engages users. For more information or details, book an appointment today!