YouTube: Dark Theme Guide

Dark themes in various applications have been a trend since 2020 and remain relevant today. Many wish to enable such a mode, but sometimes finding where to activate it isn't easy. That's why many ask "how to enable dark theme on YouTube?". Below, we'll explain where and how to enable dark theme on your computer and smartphone, and address all nuances and potential issues during dark mode activation. In this article, we'll thoroughly cover all ways to enable dark theme on YouTube: on computers (Windows, macOS, Linux), on Android and iPhone (iOS) smartphones, as well as in the browser and mobile app. This material will be useful for all YouTube users who want to make video watching more comfortable for their eyes.

What is dark theme and why is it needed

Dark theme (Dark Mode, Night Mode) is an alternative interface color scheme where a light background is replaced with a dark one (black, dark gray), and text becomes light. This mode has become incredibly popular in recent years.

Why enable dark theme on YouTube:

Less eye strain. When watching videos in a dark room or at night, a bright white screen background can be harsh on the eyes. Dark theme reduces eye strain, especially during prolonged use.
Battery saving. On devices with OLED screens (most modern smartphones), black pixels are not illuminated, which saves energy. Savings can be up to 20-30% when watching videos with a dark interface.
Better focus on content. A dark interface doesn't distract from the video. The video player is already dark, and in dark theme, it blends with the interface, creating a more cinematic experience.
Stylish look. Many users simply like the way the dark theme looks. It is perceived as more modern and premium.

How to enable dark theme on YouTube on computer

To enable the dark theme on your computer, you need to follow a few simple steps. The YouTube interface in the browser is the same for Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Step-by-step instructions for computer

First step. Open your browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari, Opera) and go to youtube.com. Make sure you are logged into your Google account. If you are not logged in, the dark theme may not be saved after reloading the page.

Second step. We need to click on our account image in the upper right corner. This is an icon with your avatar or, if you haven't uploaded a photo, the first letter of your name.

Third step. In the drop-down list, find "Appearance" (or "Theme" in the Russian version). This item will indicate the current mode: "Device default," "Light," or "Dark."

Fourth step. Click on "Appearance." A drop-down list with three options will appear. In this list, select "Dark."

Fifth step. The YouTube interface will immediately switch to the dark theme. Changes are applied instantly, without reloading the page.

What the theme options mean on computer

"Device default" — YouTube automatically adapts to your computer's system settings. If dark theme is enabled in Windows or macOS, YouTube will also switch to dark. If the system theme is light, YouTube will remain light.

"Light" — Forcefully enables the light theme regardless of system settings.

"Dark" — Forcefully enables the dark theme regardless of system settings.

How to enable dark theme on YouTube on smartphone

On a smartphone, the process of enabling dark theme differs slightly from the computer version. These instructions are suitable for both Android devices (Samsung, Xiaomi, Huawei, Google Pixel, etc.) and iPhone (iOS).

Step-by-step instructions for smartphone

First step. Open the YouTube app on your smartphone. Make sure the app is updated to the latest version. Older versions may not support dark theme or have a different path to settings.

Second step. On your smartphone, you need to tap on your account image. This icon is located in the upper right corner of the screen. If you have set a profile picture, it will be displayed. If not, the first letter of your nickname or name will be there instead.

Third step. Tapping on the avatar will take us to the "Account" page. This page displays information about your account, channel, and settings.

Fourth step. On the "Account" page, you need to find and tap on "Settings." It's usually at the bottom of the list or highlighted with a gear icon.

Fifth step. In the "Settings" menu, go to the "General" section. This section contains the main application settings: playback, notifications, language, and appearance.

Sixth step. After navigating to the "General" page, find "Appearance." Click on it.

Seventh step. In the opened list, select "Dark theme." In the mobile app, three options are usually available: "Use device theme," "Light theme," "Dark theme."

Eighth step. After selection, the dark theme will be applied automatically. There’s no need to exit the settings — changes take effect immediately.

How to enable YouTube dark theme via phone's system settings

On many modern smartphones, you can enable a global dark theme for all apps at once, including YouTube. This is convenient if you want all apps (YouTube, Instagram, Telegram, browser) to switch to dark theme automatically.

Deposit funds, one-click order, discounts and bonuses are available only for registered users. Register.

If you didn't find the right service or found it cheaper, write to I will support you in tg or chat, and we will resolve any issue.