Google Docs is a widely used online word processor, accessible from any device with an internet connection. Despite its convenience, working with its default bright interface can strain the eyes, especially during late-night sessions. To alleviate this issue, enabling a dark mode can be immensely helpful. While Google Docs doesn't natively support dark mode on desktops, there are effective methods to achieve this.

Forcing Dark Mode in Google Chrome

One reliable way to enable dark mode in Google Docs is by forcing dark mode through Chrome's experimental features. This method applies dark mode across all websites you visit in Chrome.

Step 1: Open Google Chrome on your computer and type chrome://flags into the address bar to access Chrome's experimental features page.

Step 2: In the search box at the top, type 'Force dark mode' to find the relevant setting.

Step 3: Locate the 'Force Dark Mode for Web Contents' option. Click on the dropdown menu next to it and select 'Enabled' from the list.

Step 4: After enabling, Chrome will prompt you to restart the browser to apply the changes. Click on 'Relaunch'. Ensure you have saved all your work before proceeding, as Chrome will close and reopen all tabs.

Once Chrome restarts, dark mode will be applied to all websites, including Google Docs. This system-wide dark mode ensures a consistent browsing experience without the need for additional extensions.

Using Google Docs Dark Mode Extension in Chrome

If you prefer to enable dark mode specifically for Google Docs, you can use the 'Google Docs Dark Mode' extension. This method allows you to toggle dark mode for Google Docs without affecting other websites.

Step 1: Visit the Chrome Web Store at chrome.google.com/webstore. In the search bar at the top-left corner, type 'Google docs dark mode' and press 'Enter'.

Step 2: From the list of extensions, find the one offered by 'Ivan Hidalgo' and click on it to view more details.

Step 3: Click on the 'Add to Chrome' button located next to the extension's name.

Step 4: A confirmation dialog will appear, informing you that the extension can read and change your data on docs.google.com. If you agree, click 'Add extension'.

Step 5: After installation, the extension icon will appear next to the address bar. To keep it visible, click on the puzzle icon (Extensions) and pin the 'Google Docs Dark Mode' extension.

Step 6: Navigate to docs.google.com and open a new or existing document. The dark mode should be applied automatically.

Step 7: To customize the dark mode settings or disable it, click on the extension icon. You can toggle the dark interface and dark document background using the provided switches.

While this extension is convenient, be aware that it requires permission to access your data on Google Docs. If privacy is a concern, consider using the method that forces dark mode through Chrome's settings.

Enabling Dark Mode in Mozilla Firefox

Firefox users can enable dark mode in Google Docs using the 'Dark Reader' extension, which applies dark mode across all websites with customizable settings.

Step 1: Open Firefox and click on the menu button (three horizontal lines) at the top-right corner. Select 'Add-ons and Themes' from the dropdown menu.

Step 2: In the search bar at the top, type 'Dark Reader' and press 'Enter'.

Step 3: Click on the 'Dark Reader' extension offered by Alexander Shutau to view its details.

Step 4: Click on 'Add to Firefox' to install the extension.

Step 5: A permission prompt will appear. Click 'Add' to grant the necessary permissions.

Step 6: After installation, Dark Reader will be active, and websites will display in dark mode. To adjust settings or disable it, click on the Dark Reader icon next to the address bar. You can toggle dark mode on or off or customize its appearance from there.

Step 7: Alternatively, manage the extension by accessing 'Add-ons and Themes' from the menu or by pressing Ctrl + Shift + A. Navigate to the 'Extensions' tab to enable or disable Dark Reader.

Enabling Dark Mode in Microsoft Edge

Microsoft Edge users can also enable dark mode in Google Docs either by installing an extension or by forcing dark mode through Edge's settings.

Forcing Dark Mode in Microsoft Edge

Step 1: Open Microsoft Edge and type edge://flags into the address bar to access the experimental features page.

Step 2: In the search bar, type 'Dark mode' to find the relevant setting.

Step 3: Find 'Force Dark Mode for Web Contents' and select 'Enabled' from the dropdown menu next to it.

Step 4: Click 'Restart' to relaunch Edge and apply the changes. Dark mode will now be enabled across all websites, including Google Docs.

Using Google Docs Dark Mode Extension in Edge

Step 1: Open Edge and go to the Edge Add-ons store at microsoftedge.microsoft.com/addons. Search for 'Google docs dark mode' in the search bar.

Step 2: Click on the relevant extension from the search results to view its details.

Step 3: Click on the 'Get' button to add the extension to Edge.

Step 4: Confirm the installation by clicking 'Add extension' when prompted.

Step 5: After installation, navigate to docs.google.com. The dark mode should be active in Google Docs.

Step 6: To disable or adjust dark mode settings, click on the extension icon next to the address bar and use the available switches.

As with Chrome, be mindful of the permissions required by the extension. If privacy is a concern, using the force dark mode method may be preferable.

Enabling Dark Mode on Mobile Devices

Activating dark mode in the Google Docs app on mobile devices is straightforward, and the option is built into the app itself.

Step 1: Open the Google Docs app on your mobile device. Tap on the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the top-left corner.

Step 2: From the menu, select 'Settings'.

Step 3: Tap on the 'Theme' option to change the display settings.

Step 4: Choose 'Dark' from the list of themes. A checkmark will indicate your selection.

The app will now always use dark mode, regardless of your device's system settings, providing a consistent and eye-friendly experience.