Dark Reader
Open-source browser extension that enables dark mode for websites everywhere.
Open the official app on darkreader.org
This tool is hosted by its maintainers. Click below to open darkreader.org in a new tab — it's their official demo.
Browse developer tools →What's next with Dark Reader?
Choose how you want to get started.
Use it free
Open the official tool or demo — no account needed.
Self-host it
Run the open-source version on your own infrastructure.
What is Dark Reader?
Dark Reader is an open-source browser extension licensed under MIT, designed to transform the appearance of websites into a dark mode to reduce eye strain. By inverting colors and adjusting brightness, contrast, and sepia settings, it mitigates the visual fatigue caused by bright screens, particularly in low-light environments. The tool is widely used by individuals with light sensitivity, frequent internet users, and those seeking to minimize screen glare. It addresses the problem of prolonged exposure to light-colored websites, offering a customizable solution to enhance readability and comfort without altering the original content. Developed since 2014, Dark Reader supports major browsers including Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge, with no data collection practices. Its popularity stems from its simplicity and effectiveness in adapting popular platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and Wikipedia. Users can apply the dark theme globally or restrict it to specific domains, making it a versatile tool for both casual and power users. The project’s commitment to open-source principles and user privacy has attracted over 10 million users, solidifying its role as a trusted alternative to system-wide dark mode settings.
How it works
Dark Reader is a browser extension that converts web pages into a dark-themed interface by inverting colors and adjusting visual parameters. It prioritizes reducing eyestrain caused by prolonged exposure to bright screens, particularly in dimly lit settings. The tool’s primary purpose is to enhance readability and comfort without modifying the original website content. By applying a dark mode overlay, it caters to users who prefer reduced screen brightness for extended periods. Dark Reader allows customization of brightness, contrast, and sepia levels to suit individual preferences. Users can enable the dark theme for all websites or target specific domains like Facebook, YouTube, or Wikipedia. The extension operates independently of system settings, providing granular control over browsing experiences.
How to use it
- 1Open the Dark Reader page
- 2Use the tool directly in your browser
- 3Results appear instantly — no waiting, no downloads
What it can do
- dark mode extension
Use cases
Assumptions and limitations
Assumptions
- source: https://github.com/darkreader/darkreader
- license: MIT — free to use
- privacy: Self-hosted — you control your data
Limitations
- Some websites may experience layout issues due to reliance on light-colored backgrounds.
- Limited support for advanced CSS styling or dynamic content that adapts to user interactions.
- No native mobile application is available, restricting use to desktop browsers.
- Customization options may not fully replicate native dark mode implementations of operating systems.
- Certain elements like icons or embedded videos might not render optimally in dark themes.
Understanding the result
Open-source browser extension that enables dark mode for websites everywhere.
Tool details
- Clearly flagged when a network request is needed.
- No account, no sign-up, and no tracking of your content.
- Powered by (MIT).
- Built with
- (darkreader/darkreader)
- License
- MIT
- Runs locally
- No — requires a network request
- Verification
- Not yet verified
- Input
- Query
- Output
- Text
Built with darkreader/darkreader. OpenToolVault provides the discovery and browser interface while crediting the original project maintainers.
- Built with
- License
- MIT
Open-source project
OpenToolVault is an independent directory. We are not affiliated with or endorsed by this project.
References
- / — GitHub Repository
Upstream project · GitHub
- MIT License
Upstream project
Frequently asked
How do I install Dark Reader?
Visit the official website or browser store to download the extension. For Chrome, search 'Dark Reader' in the Chrome Web Store and click 'Add to Chrome'. Repeat for Firefox, Safari, or Edge. After installation, open the extension’s settings to configure brightness, contrast, and sepia levels. Enable the dark theme for specific domains or globally, then refresh web pages to apply the changes.
How does Dark Reader work technically?
Dark Reader uses JavaScript to inject CSS styles into web pages, inverting colors and adjusting visual parameters. It applies a dark overlay by manipulating brightness, contrast, and sepia values, which modifies how colors are rendered without altering the original HTML or CSS. The tool prioritizes user privacy by not transmitting data to servers, relying solely on local browser execution.
How do I adjust settings for specific websites?
Open the Dark Reader settings panel and click 'Add Domain'. Enter the website URL (e.g., 'facebook.com') to enable the dark theme for that site. Use the brightness, contrast, and sepia sliders to fine-tune appearance. For global application, leave the domain field empty. Refresh the page to see the changes take effect.
How does Dark Reader compare to system-wide dark mode?
Dark Reader applies a dark theme to individual websites regardless of system settings, while system-wide dark mode affects the entire operating environment. Dark Reader offers more granular control over specific sites and allows customization of color parameters. However, it lacks integration with native OS features like adaptive brightness or cross-app theming, which system dark mode provides.
What should I do if websites look distorted in dark mode?
Check the 'Ignore' settings to exclude problematic sites. Adjust brightness, contrast, or sepia levels to restore visual clarity. If layout issues persist, try disabling the 'Invert Colors' option or reducing the brightness slider. For persistent problems, consult the help page or report the issue on the GitHub repository.