How to Fix ‘File Explorer Dark Theme Not Working’ issue on Windows 11/10

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Today, in this article we will show you how to Fix ‘File Explorer Dark Theme Not Working’ issue on Windows 11/10. There are some users who have reported that the most recent Windows Feature Update does not work properly with Windows Explorer. A significant number of people are expressing their dissatisfaction with the fact that the text in Explorer is not white, while others are stating that Windows Explorer is still operating in an excessively white state. File Explorer’s dark style is no longer functional on Windows 10, according to an increasing number of users who have reported this issue.

It has been reported by some users who are affected that the theme used to function properly, but after an update, it is no longer functioning properly. Other users have stated that they have never been able to figure out how to make the theme useful. A few users have reported that the dark theme is only partially implemented in their scenario (certain menus are still white), and this is something that they have reported.

On top of that, a few of the users have mentioned that the drop-down dialog windows are practically completely invisible. Despite the fact that this may be a defect in the operating system, you can give these recommendations a shot and see if they resolve the issue of Dark Mode not functioning properly in Explorer for you. Here are the ways how to Fix ‘File Explorer Dark Theme Not Working’ issue on Windows 11/10.

Causes of ‘File Explorer Dark Theme Not Working’ issue on Windows 11/10

1. Outdated Graphics Drivers: Outdated or incompatible graphics drivers can cause issues with the display, including problems with the dark theme.
2. System Files Corruption: Corrupted system files may hinder the proper functioning of the dark theme in File Explorer.
3. Windows Update Issues: Pending or failed Windows updates can lead to functionality issues, including problems with the dark theme.
4. Third-Party Software Interference: Certain third-party applications or software might conflict with the dark theme, causing it not to work correctly.
5. Registry Errors: Incorrect or corrupted registry entries related to the dark theme settings can result in malfunctions.
6. User Account Issues: Problems with user account permissions or settings may impact the proper functioning of the dark theme.
7. Power Plan Settings: In some cases, power plan settings can affect the appearance and functionality of the dark theme.

How to Fix ‘File Explorer Dark Theme Not Working’ issue on Windows 11/10

Restart File Explorer

1. Open the Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
2. Locate “Windows Explorer” in the list, right-click, and select “Restart.”
3. This action can refresh the File Explorer process and resolve theme-related glitches.

Reset Theme Settings

1. Open the Settings menu by pressing Win + I.
2. Go to “Personalization” and then click on “Themes.”
3. Under “Themes,” click on “Theme settings.”
4. Choose the default theme or another dark theme and apply it.
5. Reapply your preferred dark theme and check if the issue persists.

Modify Registry Settings

1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type regedit and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
3. Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Themes\Personalize.
4. Look for a DWORD value named AppsUseLightTheme and ensure it is set to 0 for dark mode.
5. Restart your computer after making changes and check if the dark theme is working.

Check High Contrast Settings

1. Open the Settings menu (Win + I).
2. Go to “Ease of Access” and select “High contrast.“
3. Ensure the “Turn on high contrast” toggle is set to Off.
4. Reapply the dark theme and check for improvements.

Clear Thumbnail Cache

1. Open File Explorer and navigate to View > Options > Change folder and search options.
2. In the “Folder Options” window, go to the “View” tab.
3. Under “Files and Folders,” check “Always show icons, never thumbnails.”
4. Click “Apply,” then uncheck the same option and click “Apply” again.

Restart Windows Explorer

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Locate “Windows Explorer” in the list.
3. Right-click on “Windows Explorer” and select “Restart.”

Conclusion

Have you decided that you would want to use the File Explorer in Dark Mode? There are situations when you can find that the File Explorer Dark Mode is not functioning properly. If you are running Windows 10 build 1809 or a higher version, you have the ability to apply the dark theme to File Explorer, which will alleviate eye fatigue.

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