The choice between Light Mode and Dark Mode of the monitor has become the subject of numerous discussions among users and ophthalmologists, writes IZ. Each mode has its advantages and disadvantages for vision, and the decision depends on individual characteristics and lighting conditions. In this article, we will consider the impact of both modes on vision and try to find an answer to the question: which is better for the eyes?
Light mode uses black text on a white or light background, which is standard on most devices. It is often considered more natural to read because it resembles printed books and documents.
Advantages of light mode:
- Better readability: A study published in the Journal of Vision in 2021 found that light backgrounds make it easier to read small text, especially in bright light. The contrast between black text and a white background helps with quick character recognition.
- Reducing pupil dilation: A light background promotes natural pupil contraction, which improves focus and image sharpness.
- Habituation: Most users are accustomed to light modes, so switching to them does not require additional visual strain.
Disadvantages of light mode:
- Blue light: White backgrounds emit more blue light, which can suppress melatonin production and negatively impact sleep. According to a study from Harvard Medical School, prolonged exposure to blue light increases the risk of digital eye syndrome.
- Eye fatigue in the dark: In low light, the bright background of the monitor can cause faster eye fatigue.
Dark mode, which displays light text on a black or dark background, is becoming increasingly popular, with many users reporting that it is more convenient when working in the dark.
Benefits of dark mode:
- Less blue light: A study published in the American Academy of Ophthalmology in 2020 confirmed that dark mode reduces blue light emission, which can be beneficial in the evening to maintain a normal sleep cycle.
- Brightness Reduction: A dark background reduces the overall brightness of the screen, making it more comfortable for the eyes in low light.
- Energy efficiency: For OLED displays, dark mode can also reduce power consumption, which is an added bonus.
Disadvantages of dark mode:
- Poorer readability: A study in the Journal of Experimental Psychology found that light text on a dark background can cause reading difficulties, especially for people with astigmatism. This is due to a phenomenon known as “chromatic aberration.”
- Eyestrain: Reading light text on a dark background can cause eye fatigue due to the need to constantly focus.
A 2021 study published in Applied Ergonomics compared the effects of light and dark modes on eye strain in 100 participants. The results showed that light mode led to better readability and less eye strain during daylight hours. Meanwhile, dark mode was more comfortable for working at night, reducing screen brightness and eye strain.
Another study in the Journal of Vision in 2020 confirmed that dark mode can reduce blue light exposure, but its effectiveness depends on the type of display and lighting conditions.
Most ophthalmologists recommend adapting the display mode to the lighting conditions:
- Light mode is suitable for working during the day or in bright light.
- Dark mode should be used in the evening or in low light.
It is also useful to use blue light filters or use special glasses with anti-glare coating to reduce the exposure to the blue spectrum.
The choice between light and dark modes depends on lighting conditions and individual vision. The best option is to use both modes in combination depending on the time of day and lighting, as well as using blue light filters to reduce the negative impact on vision.
Previously, we wrote about how emotions affect vision: the psychosomatics of eye diseases.