Migraine-friendly Outlook.com: turn on Dark mode

Updated 2026-11-02

Quick answerIn Outlook.com or Outlook on the web, select Settings at the top of the page, then General > Appearance, and under Dark mode choose Dark. Microsoft says the reading pane also turns dark to reduce eye strain, and you can brighten a single message from the button at the top of the reading pane.

Outlook.com and Outlook on the web

  1. Select Settings at the top of the page.
  2. Go to General > Appearance.
  3. Under Dark mode, select Dark.

Good to know

  • Microsoft describes dark mode as easier on the eyes in low-light environments.
  • You can switch one message back to its original formatting from the top of the reading pane.

FAQ

Does Outlook dark mode also darken emails?

Yes, Microsoft says the reading pane gets a dark background; you can brighten an individual message if it looks wrong.

Sources

  • Microsoft Support: Dark mode in Outlook.com and Outlook on the web. Link

Not a medical device and not medical advice. Migraine Mode is a screen-comfort tool: it does not diagnose, treat, cure or prevent migraine or any other condition, and it does not replace a doctor. Its settings are based on studies of light, colour, flicker, patterns and motion; the extension itself has not been clinically tested. When to see a doctor.