How to Enable Dark Mode in Microsoft Office Apps

Dark Mode in Microsoft Office can make long work sessions more comfortable, especially in low light, by reducing glare and giving the interface a darker, more subdued look. The following is how to enable dark mode for Office apps in Windows 11. 

Change the Office Theme Inside One Office App

This approach applies an Office theme across apps like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. It’s the most direct method and works even if you don’t change Windows settings.

1. Open any Office app (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

2. Go to File > Account.

3. Under Office Theme (Dark Gray, Black, White, Use System Setting, and Colorful), choose Black (true dark) or Dark Gray (dimmer). 

If you want to follow system settings, choose Use system settings.  But don’t forget to enable dark theme in Settings:

1. Open Settings (Windows key + I).

2. Go to Personalization > Colors.

3. Under Choose your mode, pick Dark to make Windows and supported apps use dark mode.

The change will apply to that app immediately. When you’re signed into your Microsoft account, the theme will typically sync to other Office apps on the same PC.

Alternative Path 

1. Open one Office app > File > Options.

2. In the General tab, look for the Personalize your copy of Microsoft Office section and pick an Office Theme. Click OK.

Switch Out Modes Quickly

If you want to disable Dark Mode, you can quickly do it via the View tab in any Office app. Here’s how:

1. Open your app (like Microsoft Word).

2. Click the View tab in the top menu.

3. If Dark Mode is enabled, you should see the Switch Modes button on the tab. Click it to switch between modes whenever you need to quickly.

Tips

• Make sure you’re signed into your Microsoft account—theme sync works when signed in.
• Try Dark Gray if you find Black too high-contrast.
• Dark mode is best for low-light work; for ambient bright environments, Light mode may be preferable for readability.

Conclusion

It’s easy to enable Dark Mode in Microsoft Office on Windows 11. You can apply it directly in Office through File > Account > Office Theme for the most consistent results across Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, or turn on Dark Mode in Windows Settings. For the best experience, keep Office updated and stay signed in so your theme settings sync properly across apps.