These days, offering users the option to switch between light and dark modes has become a standard in modern design. It not only provides a more personalized experience but also helps users reduce eye strain depending on the environment they’re in. However, it’s essential to ensure that these modes are accessible to everyone, especially those with visual impairments or cognitive disabilities. Without proper consideration for accessibility, you risk creating interfaces that some users may struggle to use effectively. In this article, I’ll explore the best practices for designing accessible light and dark modes and share some practical tips and tools that can help make your themes as inclusive as possible.

Why accessibility is important in theming

Light and dark modes aren’t just about aesthetics. They’re designed to enhance the user’s comfort, whether they’re in a bright environment or using their device in the dark. However, if we overlook accessibility when designing these modes, we risk alienating users with disabilities or those who simply prefer higher usability standards. Accessibility isn’t just about meeting guidelines or legal requirements—it’s about creating an inclusive experience where everyone can engage with your product, no matter their abilities.

1. Prioritize contrast ratios for clear readability

One of the key elements of accessible design is ensuring that text and UI elements are easy to see and read. Contrast ratio plays a big part in this. A strong contrast between the background and text is crucial, especially for users with visual impairments. The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) suggest that regular text should have at least a 4.5:1 contrast ratio, while larger text should have a minimum of 3:1. This is to ensure that people with low vision or color blindness can still read the content without straining. Using tools like Stark in Figma can be a lifesaver when it comes to checking these ratios as you design. Stark not only helps you check the contrast but also lets you simulate various types of visual impairments, making sure your designs are accessible to a wider audience.

2. Be thoughtful with color choices

When designing light and dark modes, the colors you choose matter. Some users may not be able to distinguish between certain colors—like those with color blindness—so relying solely on color to convey information can be problematic. That’s where Figma’s Color Blind plugin comes in handy. It allows you to simulate how your design will look to users with various types of color blindness. This way, you can make sure your choices are clear and functional for everyone. And as a rule of thumb, try not to rely only on color to communicate important information—use text, icons, or other visual cues to ensure clarity.

3. Typography: It’s more than just style

Typography is another crucial aspect of accessibility. It’s not just about picking a pretty font—legibility is key. In dark mode, thin or small text can be particularly difficult to read, while in light mode, light-colored text on a white background can quickly become unreadable. Tools like Typescale can help ensure that your typography remains consistent and readable across both light and dark modes. Remember, larger fonts with good weight are easier to read, especially in low-light settings, so it’s worth paying extra attention to how your text will look in both themes.

4. Test accessibility in real-world conditions

No design is complete without proper testing. While tools and simulators are incredibly useful, the best way to ensure accessibility is to involve real users in your testing process—particularly those who rely on assistive technologies or have disabilities. In Figma, tools like A11y allow you to test your designs directly for color contrast and overall accessibility compliance. Also, consider how your light and dark modes perform in real-world scenarios, like being viewed in bright sunlight or a dimly lit room. Testing for these conditions ensures that your themes will work well for everyone, no matter the setting.

5. Allow users to customize their experience

Lastly, accessibility is also about giving users the freedom to choose how they interact with your product. Some users may prefer to stick to dark mode, while others may opt for light mode depending on the environment. Providing a clear and easy way to switch between themes is a simple way to enhance accessibility. Make sure the theme toggle is easy to find and clearly labeled—users shouldn’t have to search through endless menus or rely on tiny visual cues to find it. Offering customization empowers users to tailor their experience based on their needs, making your product more user-friendly for everyone.

In conclusion: Accessibility is key in theming

Offering light and dark modes isn’t just about following a trend—it’s about creating an inclusive user experience. By focusing on contrast, color choices, typography, and thorough testing, you can ensure that your themes are accessible to all users, not just a select few. Using tools like Stark, Sim Daltonism, and A11y can help you make sure your designs are inclusive and functional. Remember, designing with accessibility in mind isn’t just a best practice—it’s a key part of creating a product that works for everyone.