Dark mode vs light mode – which one actually improves UX?

You’re scrolling through your phone late at night, and the bright white screen feels like a torch straight to your eyes. You switch to dark mode, and instantly, everything feels calmer. But then, in broad daylight, that same dark UI suddenly seems unreadable, and you’re back to light mode.

This back-and-forth struggle is real, especially for businesses investing in UI/UX design services. Dark mode is trendy, sleek, and even saves battery. But does it actually improve user experience? Or is light mode still the better choice? More importantly…should brands pick a side, or is there a smarter way to do UX?

The Dark Mode Hype

Let’s Start With Why People Love Dark Mode.

1. Easier on the eyes: A dark interface reduces glare, which can be less straining on the eyes in low-light conditions. This is why apps like WhatsApp, Instagram, and YouTube give you the option.
   
2. Saves battery: If you’re using a phone with an OLED or AMOLED screen (which most premium and mid-range Indian smartphones now have), dark mode actually saves battery by turning off black pixels. This is why it’s such a hit among heavy mobile users.
   
3. Looks sleek and modern: There’s no denying dark mode has an aesthetic appeal. It gives apps and websites a premium, futuristic feel, making them a favourite for tech-driven brands.
   

But here’s the catch—dark mode isn’t always the best for readability. While it works great for short bursts of usage (like checking social media), reading long-form content in dark mode can actually increase eye strain for some users.

Why Light Mode Still Holds Strong

Light mode may not be as trendy, but there’s a reason it remains the default for most websites and apps.

1. Best for readability: Black text on a white background has been the standard for books, newspapers, and documents for centuries. It’s easier to read, especially for content-heavy platforms like news sites, blogs, and e-commerce stores.
   
2. Works better in bright environments: Think about using Google Maps in direct sunlight. A dark interface would make it harder to see. This is why most productivity apps (think Gmail, LinkedIn, and government portals) still rely on light mode.
   
3. More accessible for all users: People with certain visual impairments, like astigmatism, find light mode much easier to read. If your business serves a wide audience, accessibility should be a top priority.

Users And Their UX Preferences

In India, where most users are mobile-first, the best UX design considers both light and dark mode preferences. Take a look at how popular apps handle it:

• Banking & Finance apps– Mostly light mode for better visibility and trustworthiness.
• Streaming & entertainment – Dark mode for an immersive experience.
• E-commerce platforms – Light mode because of heavy text usage.

This proves that the best UI/UX design isn’t about picking sides….it’s about context.

The Real Answer? 

Instead of debating which is better, the smarter approach is to offer both modes and let users decide. Major brands like Apple, Google, and even startups are already doing this. Many apps now automatically switch based on the time of day, adapting to user behavior without forcing a preference.

If you’re a business working with a UI/UX design agency, this is something to seriously consider. Whether you’re launching an app or revamping your website, a user-controlled theme switcher can significantly improve UX and engagement. At 3 Minds, we create user experiences that actually work for audiences. Whether you need a UI/UX consulting service to revamp your platform or a UI/UX agency to design a high-converting digital product, we’ve got you covered.