Add to ChromeChatGPT dark mode too dark? Here's how to soften it
Updated
Short answer
ChatGPT has no grey or dim option for dark mode. The built-in things you can try are the Contrast setting and a different accent colour (Settings → General). For a genuinely softer dark look, use a theme extension: ChatTheme's Amber Terminal (warm amber on charcoal) replaces the near-black background, or describe your own softer dark look in its Create tab. Either way, text contrast stays at 4.5:1 or better.
Why ChatGPT's dark mode feels darker now
ChatGPT's dark mode moved from a dark grey to a near-black background. On OLED screens that can look sharp, but on many laptop and desktop monitors the high contrast between white text and black background feels harsh, and people have said so on the OpenAI community forum and Reddit.
What you can change in ChatGPT's settings
Under Settings → General you can set Contrast (System, Medium, Increased; web and Windows app) and the Accent color. Neither changes the background shade, and there is no official grey dark mode. You can also switch Appearance to Light or System if dark mode isn't working for you.
Get a softer dark theme
ChatTheme repaints the dark mode rather than replacing it: ChatGPT stays in dark mode underneath, and the theme swaps the colours on top. Amber Terminal uses warm amber text on charcoal. You can also ask the Create tab for “dark grey like the old ChatGPT” and AI builds that theme.
- 1
Install ChatTheme
Add ChatTheme to Chrome, Edge, Brave or Arc from the Chrome Web Store.
- 2
Open the side panel
On chatgpt.com, click the ChatTheme icon in the toolbar.
- 3
Pick or describe a dark theme
Click Amber Terminal in the Themes tab, or describe the dark look you want in the Create tab. It applies instantly; Alt+Shift+T switches back.
Try ChatTheme
Free for ChatGPT, Claude and Gemini. Only the look changes.