Dark Mode: Trend or Necessity?
In recent years, dark mode has taken the digital world by storm. From mobile apps to operating systems, websites to dashboards — everyone seems to be jumping on the dark mode bandwagon. But the question remains: is dark mode truly a necessity, or is it just a trendy aesthetic?
What is Dark Mode?
Dark mode (or night mode) is a user interface (UI) design where light-colored text and icons appear on a dark background. It's the visual opposite of the traditional "light mode," aiming to reduce eye strain and give devices a sleek look.
The Rise of the Trend
The dark mode trend gained momentum with major tech giants like Apple, Google, and Microsoft implementing system-wide support. Apps like Instagram, YouTube, Slack, and even Notion soon followed. Suddenly, it wasn’t just a "cool" feature — users were expecting it.
The Science Behind It
Real Use Cases: Does It Really Help?
For night-time readers, developers, gamers, or designers working long hours, dark mode can indeed offer comfort. But for people with certain visual impairments or dyslexia, dark mode might actually make reading more difficult.
Accessibility & Design Challenges
Dark mode isn’t just about flipping colors. Designers must carefully manage:
Contrast ratios
Color perception
Legibility across themes
Poor implementation can lead to usability issues, confusing interactions, and inconsistent branding.
So, Trend or Necessity?
Dark mode began as a trend but is evolving into a necessity—at least when it comes to user choice. In 2025, design systems that don’t offer both light and dark themes risk feeling outdated.
It’s not about dark vs. light—it’s about flexibility.
