How to Enable Dark Mode in WhatsApp Desktop for Windows and Mac

Edited 4 weeks ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team

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Dark mode is a feature that changes the color theme of the interface to a dark shade. Many people prefer dark mode because it is easier on the eyes in low-light environments. Additionally, it can save battery life on devices with OLED screens. WhatsApp offers a dark mode feature for its desktop app, making it more comfortable to chat at night or in low light.

Understanding WhatsApp Desktop

WhatsApp Desktop is an application that allows users to access WhatsApp on their computer. It syncs with the mobile app, ensuring that all your chats and messages are available on both your phone and desktop. This way, you can type faster using the physical keyboard and manage messages efficiently.

Setting up WhatsApp Desktop

Before you can enable dark mode, you need to install WhatsApp Desktop on your computer. Here's how you can do that:

• Go to the official WhatsApp website.
• Download the appropriate application for your operating system - Windows or Mac.
• Once the download is complete, open the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install WhatsApp Desktop.
• Open the desktop application.
• You will see a QR code on the main desktop interface.

Next, you need to link your phone's WhatsApp to the desktop version:

1. Open WhatsApp on your mobile device.
2. Go to the three-dot menu or Settings menu, depending on your device.
3. Select “WhatsApp Web” or “Linked Devices.”
4. Use your phone to scan the QR code displayed on your computer screen.

Once the QR code is scanned, your chats will appear on the WhatsApp desktop app. Now you are ready to set up dark mode.

Enabling dark mode in WhatsApp desktop

For Windows users

Enabling dark mode in WhatsApp desktop on Windows is simple. Just follow these steps:

1. Open WhatsApp desktop on your Windows PC.
2. Click the three-dot icon at the top of the chat list to open the menu.
3. From the dropdown, select “Settings.”
4. In the Settings menu, click "Themes."
5. You'll see options to choose "Light", "Dark", or "System Default".
6. Select "Dark" to enable dark mode.

Alternatively, you can choose "System default" if you want WhatsApp's appearance to change according to your system's dark or light mode settings. When you choose "System default", WhatsApp will automatically adopt the light or dark theme based on Windows' appearance settings.

For Mac users

Mac users can follow these steps to enable dark mode:

1. Open WhatsApp Desktop on your Mac.
2. Select the "WhatsApp" icon in the top menu bar, then click "Settings" from the dropdown menu.
3. In the Settings window, go to “Themes.”
4. Select the “Dark” option to switch to dark mode.

For Mac users, there is also a "System Default" option. When you choose "System Default", WhatsApp will match the Mac system settings. If your macOS is in dark mode, WhatsApp will be in dark mode and vice versa.

Benefits of using dark mode

Here are some of the benefits of using dark mode:

• Less eye strain: Bright screens at night can put more strain on your eyes. Dark mode reduces blue light exposure.
• Better battery life: On devices with OLED or AMOLED screens, dark mode saves battery life because less energy is used to light the screen.
• Environmental adaptation: In low-light environments, dark mode reduces brightness, making it easier to view the screen without causing discomfort to the eyes.

Additionally, many users love the aesthetic appeal of the dark interface, and find it modern and stylish.

Troubleshooting common problems

Sometimes users may face issues while trying to enable dark mode. Here are the common problems and solutions:

Dark mode option is not visible

If you don't see the Dark Mode option, make sure:

• Your WhatsApp desktop app is up to date. Check for updates and install the latest version.
• Your computer's operating system supports dark mode. Some older OS versions may not support this feature.

Dark mode not changing with system default

If you selected “System Default” but WhatsApp is not switching between themes correctly:

• Check your operating system's appearance settings to make sure it's set to adjust automatically or is actually in dark mode.
• Restart WhatsApp Desktop to refresh the interface settings.

Conclusion

Dark mode is a popular feature as it reduces eye strain and saves energy. WhatsApp desktop provides a straightforward way to toggle this setting for both Windows and Mac users. Adopting dark mode can transform your messaging experience on WhatsApp desktop, especially in low-light settings. Follow the simple steps discussed to enjoy a more comfortable chat experience.

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