Windows 11 introduced a redesigned Task Manager with support for Dark Mode, allowing users to match it with the system’s theme and reduce eye strain. When Dark Mode is enabled, the Task Manager interface switches to a darker color scheme, making it easier to use in low-light environments.
However, some users may encounter issues where Task Manager does not switch to Dark Mode, continues showing the light theme, or does not follow the system theme settings. This issue is usually caused by incorrect personalization settings, outdated Windows builds, system glitches, or corrupted system files.
If Task Manager Dark Mode is not working in Windows 11, follow the troubleshooting steps below.
How to Fix Task Manager Dark Mode Not Working in Windows 11
Work through the solutions in order. After completing each step, reopen Task Manager to check if Dark Mode is working.
1. Enable Dark Mode in Windows Settings
Task Manager follows the Windows system theme.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to Personalization > Colors.
- Locate Choose your mode.
- Select Dark or Custom.
- If you select Custom, set Default Windows mode to Dark.
After changing the theme, reopen Task Manager.
2. Restart Task Manager
A temporary glitch may prevent the theme from updating.
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Click the menu icon (three horizontal lines).
- Close Task Manager completely.
- Open it again using Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
This reloads the interface with the correct theme settings.
3. Check Task Manager Theme Settings
The redesigned Task Manager includes its own theme setting.
- Open Task Manager.
- Click the Settings (gear icon) in the bottom-left corner.
- Locate the App theme option.
- Select Use system setting or Dark.
After applying the change, the Task Manager should switch to Dark Mode.
4. Restart Windows Explorer
Refreshing system processes may resolve theme-related issues.
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Locate Windows Explorer in the Processes tab.
- Right-click it and select Restart.
- Wait for the taskbar to reload.
Open Task Manager again to check if Dark Mode appears.
5. Update Windows
Dark Mode support in Task Manager requires newer Windows builds.
- Press Windows + I.
- Go to Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- Install available updates.
- Restart your PC.
Updating Windows ensures you have the latest Task Manager version.
6. Run System File Checker (SFC)
Corrupted system files may affect UI features.
- Press Windows + S and search for Command Prompt.
- Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
- Enter the command:
sfc /scannow - Press Enter and wait for the scan to complete.
- Restart your PC.
Windows will repair any damaged system files.
7. Run DISM Scan
If SFC does not fix the problem:
- Open Command Prompt as administrator.
- Run the following command:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth - Wait for the process to complete.
- Restart your PC.
This repairs deeper Windows image corruption.
8. Check Windows Theme Compatibility
Some third-party themes may interfere with system UI features.
- Press Windows + I.
- Go to Personalization > Themes.
- Select a default Windows theme such as Windows (Dark).
After applying the default theme, reopen Task Manager.
Conclusion
If Task Manager Dark Mode is not working in Windows 11, the issue is usually caused by incorrect theme settings, outdated Windows builds, or temporary system glitches. In most cases, enabling Dark Mode in personalization settings or adjusting Task Manager’s theme preference resolves the issue quickly.
By following the troubleshooting steps above, you should be able to restore Dark Mode in Task Manager and enjoy a consistent dark interface across your Windows 11 system.
