For decades, the standard Windows Notepad application remained virtually untouched—a stark, bright white box designed purely for quick text edits. With the release of Windows 11, Microsoft finally completely overhauled this legacy application. The new Notepad includes a modern interface, multi-tab support, and most importantly, full support for Dark Mode. If you frequently use Notepad for coding, reading read-me files, or writing notes late at night, turning on Dark Mode will significantly reduce eye strain.
How Notepad Inherits System Settings
By default, the new Windows 11 Notepad is set to “Use system setting.” This means if you have already gone into your main Windows personalization settings and switched the entire operating system to Dark Mode, Notepad will automatically match it and open with a dark background.
However, many users prefer their operating system to remain in Light Mode, but want specific applications (like text editors or code terminals) to utilize Dark Mode for better contrast. Fortunately, Notepad allows you to override the system-wide setting.
How to Force Dark Mode in Notepad
You can change the theme directly within the Notepad application’s internal settings menu.
- Click the Start button, type
Notepad, and press Enter to open the application. - In the top right corner of the Notepad window, click the gear icon to open the Settings menu.
- Locate the section labelled App theme and click the downward-facing arrow on the right to expand the options.
- You will see three choices: Light, Dark, and Use system setting.
- Click the radio button next to Dark.
The application will instantly switch to a sleek, dark grey background with contrasting white text.
Reverting the Change
This setting is persistent. Even if you close Notepad, reboot your computer, or change your overall Windows 11 theme back and forth, Notepad will stubbornly remain in Dark Mode.
If you ever find that the dark background makes certain text difficult to read, or if you simply prefer the classic aesthetic, you can revert the change by clicking the gear icon again and selecting “Use system setting” or “Light” from the App theme menu.