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Ask HN: Can't focus when writing code in dark mode
41–50 of 57 posts
Re: Ask HN: Can't focus when writing code in dark mode
#42I am a dark mode believer, but I absolutely cannot focus when the background is true black.
> Is it that I have to give it more time
It did take me a few weeks to get used to dark mode, but every human is different. It may just not be for you.
Re: Ask HN: Can't focus when writing code in dark mode
#43I once released a programming "writer's block" by switch back from dark mode to light mode.
I actually like dark mode, but I feel like I am still in a "light mode" phase.
Re: Ask HN: Can't focus when writing code in dark mode
#44I have my IDE and terminal themes following OSX Dark Mode, which I switch in and out of throughout the day depending on ambient lighting. My screen is perpendicular to the window, but still there's a period in the afternoon where it's almost impossible to read dark mode text.
At first I couldn't find a way to automate this and was doing it manually, but there are plugins for both iTerm [0] and IDEA [1].
Think of it as an adaptation for working in a dark environment, not something you use all the time.
[0] https://iterm2.com/python-api/examples/theme.html
[1] https://plugins.jetbrains.com/plugin/12515-dark-mode-sync
Re: Ask HN: Can't focus when writing code in dark mode
#45After using light mode for several years, I tried dark mode for a few months. Initially I really liked it, but after a while, it just felt gloomy and I switched back to light mode.
Re: Ask HN: Can't focus when writing code in dark mode
#46[deleted]
Re: Ask HN: Can't focus when writing code in dark mode
#47The more light that hits your eyes, the more your iris contracts. The smaller hole makes for a clearer image (think of a pinhole camera). People who like dark mode have good vision at screen distance. For some others, they need to strain their eyes more to focus at that distance. For me, the best is to have dark text on a light enough background, enough screen brightness overall, and a well lit room (natural light is…
I can’t agree with this more. I’m a 52 year old coder with older eyes and light mode with decent background lighting works much better for me than any other option.
I’m also old enough to recognise the current fashion trend for dark mode is exactly that - a current fashion trend. They come and go all the time in every area and can be ignored if they don’t work for you.
If you’re more productive in light mode stick with it, stop worrying, and ignore the sheep who say dark mode is better. You can churn out code while they fiddle with their IDE settings to optimise the latest productivity hack.
Re: Ask HN: Can't focus when writing code in dark mode
#48The more light that hits your eyes, the more your iris contracts. The smaller hole makes for a clearer image (think of a pinhole camera). People who like dark mode have good vision at screen distance. For some others, they need to strain their eyes more to focus at that distance. For me, the best is to have dark text on a light enough background, enough screen brightness overall, and a well lit room (natural light is…
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Re: Ask HN: Can't focus when writing code in dark mode
#49Yup same here.
I just can’t do dark mode at all. I’ve tried multiple times, using different themes.
It’s jarring and too contrast-y on my eyes, which is distracting and I can’t scan the code fast because of it.
How’s your eye sight? Last time I checked I was 20/20.
Re: Ask HN: Can't focus when writing code in dark mode
#50Most dark modes hurt my eyes, it seems like white characters or graphics on a black background burn my retina (like a glare). For video editing, photoshoping or any apps I use normal `white` mode. For coding I use solarized liked theme with pastels and soft colours. It could be debated but I think it's a matter of personal taste, habits, personal sensitivity to light and scientific-based explanations and that each of…
I’m also a long time solarized fan. I try new themes once in a while, but always return to good old Solarized Light.