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To enable File Explorer’s dark theme, open Settings > Personalization > Colors and select Dark under Choose your mode. If you want Windows dark but prefer some apps to stay light, choose Custom and set the Windows and app modes separately.

Turn on dark mode for File Explorer

  1. Open Settings.

  2. Select Personalization > Colors.

  3. Under Choose your mode, select Dark.

Microsoft documents this color setting for Windows 10 and Windows 11. It changes the Windows color mode, which includes File Explorer’s appearance where supported; it does not guarantee that every app or visual surface will turn dark. Microsoft’s Windows color settings guidance explains the available modes.

Choose whether apps should be dark too

The Dark option applies the dark mode choice broadly. To choose different modes for Windows and apps, select Custom under Choose your mode. Then set Choose your default Windows mode to Dark and choose the app mode you prefer.

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For example, Windows can use Dark while apps use Light. Microsoft Support notes, “Some applications allow you to set dark or light mode individually, separate from the Windows color mode.” App controls and support vary, so an app may stay light or require its own appearance setting. Microsoft’s accessibility guidance describes using separate Windows and app modes.

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Dark mode versus a Windows theme

A color mode is the direct setting for darkening File Explorer. A Windows theme is a broader personalization package that can combine elements such as backgrounds, window colors, and sounds. Themes are managed separately under Settings > Personalization > Themes; changing a theme is not necessary to enable dark mode. See Microsoft’s guide to Windows themes.

Windows 10 support status

The color settings guidance applies to Windows 10 as well as Windows 11, but Microsoft says Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025. A Windows 10 PC will continue to work, but Microsoft recommends moving to Windows 11. Microsoft’s themes and personalization page includes this support notice.

Quick Recap

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Logitech K120 Full Size Wired Keyboard USB Plug-and-Play Windows - Black
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Logitech K270 Full Size Wireless Keyboard for Windows - Black
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Plastic parts in K270 include 38% certified post-consumer recycled plastic; Eight hot keys: For instant access to the Internet, e-mail, music volume and more
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Logitech MK120 Full Size Wired Keyboard and Mouse Combo - Black
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Arteck Backlit USB Wired Full Size Keyboard with Media Hotkey for PC and Laptop
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Logitech MK120 Full Size Wired Keyboard and Mouse Combo - Black
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Logitech K270 Full Size Wireless Keyboard for Windows - Black
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

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