Patterns

CSS Dark Mode

Implementing Dark Mode

CSS dark mode uses prefers-color-scheme and custom properties.

Introduction to CSS Dark Mode

Dark mode is becoming increasingly popular as it provides a visually appealing alternative to traditional light modes, reducing eye strain and conserving battery life on devices with OLED screens. CSS enables developers to implement dark mode themes by using the prefers-color-scheme media feature along with custom properties.

Understanding prefers-color-scheme

The prefers-color-scheme media feature allows developers to detect whether a user has requested a light or dark color theme. This feature is part of the CSS Media Queries Level 5 specification, enabling conditional styling based on user preferences.

Leveraging Custom Properties for Theming

Custom properties, also known as CSS variables, allow for more flexible and maintainable theming. By defining color variables, you can easily switch themes based on the user's preference without duplicating styles.

Implementing Dark Mode with JavaScript

While CSS provides a robust solution for dark mode, you may wish to add a toggle switch to allow users to manually change their theme. This can be achieved with JavaScript, allowing for real-time updates.

Conclusion

CSS dark mode is a powerful way to enhance user experience, providing an eye-friendly alternative to light themes. By using prefers-color-scheme and custom properties, developers can create adaptive designs that respect user preferences. Additionally, JavaScript can be used to add interactive elements like theme toggles for greater user control.

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