Dark Reader

Dark Reader is an open-source browser extension that inverts bright website colors into high-contrast, easy-to-read dark themes. It reduces eyestrain during night and daily browsing by applying dark modes to websites on the fly.

Overview

This eye-care extension enables night mode by creating dark themes for websites dynamically. Dark Reader doesn’t simply invert colors; it intelligently analyzes website style sheets, background images, and vector graphics to produce optimal visual results. Trusted by over 10 million users, the extension doesn’t show ads and doesn’t collect or send user data anywhere.

Key Features

Core Functionality

• Dynamic Theme Generation: Deeply analyzes website CSS and graphics for optimal dark theming
• Multi-Engine Support: Offers Filter, Filter+, Static, and Dynamic modes for different website types
• Brightness Control: Adjust overall brightness and contrast levels precisely
• Sepia & Dark Modes: Choose between pure dark or sepia-toned reading modes

Customization & Control

• Per-Site Settings: Configure different themes for specific websites
• Font Customization: Adjust font families, sizes, and text stroke for better readability
• Ignore List: Exclude specific websites from dark mode conversion
• Preview Mode: See changes in real-time before applying

Accessibility

• Color Blind Support: Special modes for different types of color vision deficiencies
• High Contrast Mode: Enhanced contrast options for visually impaired users
• Readable Fonts: Optimized font rendering for extended reading sessions

System Requirements

• Browsers: Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari, Opera (including mobile versions)
• Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS
• Storage: Minimal disk space required
• Permissions: Requires access to website data for theme application

Usage Guide

Basic Setup

1. Install Dark Reader from your browser’s extension store
2. The extension automatically activates on all websites
3. Click the Dark Reader icon in your browser toolbar
4. Toggle the extension on/off with the main switch
5. Adjust basic brightness and contrast sliders

Advanced Configuration

• Theme Engine Selection: Choose between Dynamic (recommended), Filter, Filter+, or Static modes based on website compatibility
• Custom Site Lists: Create site-specific rules for optimal theming
• Developer Tools: Use the dev tools mode to fine-tune specific website elements
• Import/Export Settings: Backup and transfer your configuration across browsers

Comparison: Free vs Donation

Use Cases

Ideal For

• Night Owls: Reduce blue light exposure during late-night browsing sessions
• Developers: Comfortable coding and documentation reading in dark environments
• Students: Extended research sessions with reduced eye strain
• Accessibility Users: People with photophobia, migraines, or visual impairments
• Office Workers: Long hours of web-based work in various lighting conditions

Limitations

• Some complex web applications may require manual configuration
• Occasional conflicts with websites that already have dark modes
• Performance impact on very old computers
• Some anti-adblock systems may falsely flag the extension

Troubleshooting

Common Issues

• Website Looks Broken: Try switching theme engines (Dynamic → Static) or add site to ignore list
• Performance Issues: Reduce brightness or switch to Static mode for complex websites
• Extension Not Working: Ensure it’s enabled and check browser compatibility
• Specific Elements Not Themed: Use dev tools mode to manually target elements

Best Practices

• Use Dynamic mode for most websites as it provides the best results
• Create site-specific settings for frequently visited websites
• Regularly update to the latest version for new features and bug fixes
• Join the community forums for help with problematic websites

Dark Reader is an open-source project maintained by Alexander Shutov and contributors. Help and Documentation