There are numerous themes available for Windows 11, but those with dark hues have a solid and unique appeal. Moreover, dark themes are easy on the eyes and look stunning.
If you're a dark mode fan looking for cool dark themes to customize your Windows 11 PC, read on. We've rounded up some of the best dark themes, ranging from picturesque landscapes and black cars to space images and deep blue skies.
How to Install and Personalize a Desktop Theme
The themes showcased here do not need an external app to use them. Here's how you can install and personalize them:
- Download your preferred theme to your Windows PC.
- If the theme is from the Microsoft Store, it will automatically get added to the Themes section in Personalization once you Open it. Others can just be installed by double-clicking the theme pack file—they will also feature in the Themes section.
To enjoy your dark theme beyond your desktop, you can also choose accent colors to match your theme. Here's how:
- Right-click anywhere on your desktop.
- Select Personalize to open the Personalization settings and select Colors.
- Set the Accent color option to Automatic by clicking on the Down Arrow. The system will then automatically set an accent color based on the colors of the current wallpaper.
- You can also have the same color theme on your Taskbar, Start Menu, Calendar pane, Notifications pane, and the Title Bars and Windows Borders. Just scroll down to the bottom of the Colors page and check the boxes next to Show accent color on Start and taskbar and Show accent colors on title bars and windows borders.
Also, when you switch themes, the Dark mode in apps will often change to Light mode. So to get the Dark mode back, click on Colors in Personalization, and then use the Down arrow against Choose your default app mode to change the mode to Dark.
1. Windows 11 Dark Mode
Windows 11 features a cool, dark mode that you can easily enable across the OS and apps.
Right-click on the Start button (Windows icon) on the taskbar and select Settings. In Settings, click on Personalization in the left pane and then select Colors. On the Colors page, click on the Down arrow next to Choose your mode and select Dark.
You can also add a keyboard shortcut to toggle dark mode on and off in Windows 11. And even schedule dark mode times with a nifty app.
2. Grey Eve
Grey Eve is a simple, minimalist theme that turns your desktop into a deep, dark black space. Plus, it lends a dark grey shade to Windows apps with white borders around them. You'll see this grey effect in the Settings, Start Menu, Calendar pane, Notifications pane, File Explorer and other system app windows.
As per the developer, Grey Eve is based upon the Windows High Contrast theme, which you can apply without system modifications.
3. The Northern Lights
The Northern Lights, or the Aurora Borealis, are natural displays of light that shimmer in the sky. This spectacular light show occurs when the Earth's magnetic field redirects energized particles from the Sun onto the North Pole.
The Northern Lights have fascinated scientists and skywatchers for millennia, and you can view their magic on your screen with this free 15-set theme. Enjoy amazing long-exposure photographs of the Aurora Borealis and the Milky Way from around the world, including Norway, Iceland, Thailand, and Death Valley, USA.
4. Forest Camo Special Edition
As the name suggests, this theme showcases camouflage in the deep, dark, and green shades of forests.
There is a typical camouflage design, one with a fabric feel, and others that feature the beauty of plants and trees, lakes and mountains.
This exclusive theme pack comprises nine images that will lend a nature-inspired look to your Windows desktop. Moreover, it's designed to coordinate perfectly with the Forest Camo Special Edition Microsoft Bluetooth Mouse.
Another cool dark theme you can check out is the Nightfall Camo Special Edition theme pack that features a similar camouflage theme but in the cool and dark hues of blue.
5. Earth From Above Premium
If you've wondered how the Earth looks from above the blue skies, this theme offers mesmerizing images of our planet in all its glory.
Take the long view of Earth and its continents, weather, and global silhouette. This 14-image premium 4k theme set will bring your desktop alive with the planet's magnificence.
6. Dark Skies by Tracy Hymas
Blue and black skies define this dark theme featuring photos by Tracy Hymas. From deep blue skies across farms and fields to dark and almost black clouds before a thunderstorm, you will see the depth of dark shades fill your screen.
Enter a gothic world of mystery and foreboding in this free, 10-set theme for Windows.
7. Dark Abstract
Abstract creations may not have a definite form but can portray extraordinary beauty, especially when it's dark-themed abstract. This dark theme collection will enhance the look of your desktop with its art that is a fusion of dark colors and innovative shapes.
Enjoy this theme that features 17 wallpapers with a creative mix of different shapes, colors, and textures.
8. Dark Fantasy Landscape
Dark fantasy art can be frightening and gloomy at times. However, as a fan, you'll like the look of mysterious landscapes, strange creatures, and deep shadows on your desktop from this Dark Fantasy Landscape theme.
Enjoy this showcase of 16 HD imaginary landscapes with a dark ambiance, elements of horror, and tiny figures in the background.
9. Dark Cars
Cars engineered for fast driving hold a special place in the minds of speed enthusiasts like you. The experience is more appealing when the colors are dark, reflecting a bold and stunning look.
If you love fast and dark cars, you'll love this Dark Cars theme with 17 HD wallpapers featuring luxury car brands and models like Lamborghini, Audi, Aston Martin, Maserati, Lexus, and more.
10. Dark Amoled
Love the thrills of horror, mystery, and fantasy? Then you'll enjoy this Dark Amoled theme that showcases scenes from zombie-inspired films, horror tales, and dark fantasy art.
Evil beings, ghostly creatures, haunted towns, and dark woods—it's all there in this dark theme featuring 16 premium HD wallpapers for your Windows 11 desktop.
11. Dark Space
If outer space and its mysteries interest you, the Dark Space theme will delight you.
With 18 ultra HD wallpapers, this dark theme features scenes like the shimmer of stars in the dark vastness, the beauty of planets surrounded by vibrant colors, and many more breathtaking images to light up your desktop and PC.
Customize Your Desktop With Windows 11 Dark Themes
As a dark theme fan, you'd agree that black and dark colors make everything look cool and classy. So why not try out these dark themes and bring your Windows 11 PC alive with their beauty, mystery, and awesome scenes.