How to turn on dark mode in Snapchat, both iOS and Android - Pocket-lint

You can't beat dark mode, not only does it preserve battery life on your phone, but it prevents you from searing your eyeballs when you're squeezing in those few last DMs before bed.

In 2023, dark mode is a staple of pretty much every app, but Snapchat sure took its sweet time implementing one. It was first added to the iOS app only, so Android users had to use a complicated workaround. Now, though, it's finally on Android proper, so it's very simple to activate on any smartphone.

Related: How to stop or allow your snaps to be saved in Snapchat chats

If you're ready to turn your Snapchat to the dark side, read on, we've got you covered.

How to turn on dark mode in Snapchat on iPhone

Enabling dark mode on iPhone is as easy as can be, just follow the simple steps below:

1. Open your Snapchat app
2. Tap on your Bitmoji icon at the top left
3. Tap the Settings cog at the top right
4. Scroll down until you find App Appearance, and select that
5. Choose Always Dark from the menu

You're all done. Now you can snap away in dimly lit environments with optimum comfort.

How to turn on dark mode in Snapchat on Android

On Android, things are done in very much the same way. But first, make sure that your application is up to date because dark mode was only added relatively recently.

1. Open your Snapchat app
2. Tap on your Bitmoji icon at the top left
3. Tap the Settings cog at the top right
4. Scroll down until you find App Appearance, and select that
5. Choose Always Dark from the menu
6. Tap Restart now for the settings to take effect

All finished, your eyes and battery will thank you for your hard work. If you want to learn more about Snapchat, why not check out our guide on how to stop or allow your snaps to be saved in Snapchat chats?

How to use dark mode on Snapchat for Web

Prefer using Snapchat in your desktop browser? Fear not, it's easy to activate dark mode in there, too. Just follow the simple steps below.

1. Visit web.snapchat.com
2. Log in to your Snapchat account
3. Click your Bitmoji icon at the top left of the page
4. Click Theme
5. Choose Always Dark from the drop-down menu

Why use dark mode?

We've already mentioned some of the benefits of dark mode, the main thing is that it's easier on the eyes when you're in a dimly lit environment, but it can also give you marginally better battery life on your portable devices, as black pixels require less power to generate than white ones.

Of course, that only really applies if you're using most of your battery by looking at Snapchat, and even then, Snapchat is a platform for sharing photos and videos, so most of the time, you won't be displaying these black areas.

Related: What is Snapchat and how does it work?

Really, it's just a matter of preference. Lots of people prefer the way dark mode looks, it can often feel a bit more stylish and modern, but it's all a matter of personal taste. If you prefer the way light mode looks, there's absolutely no harm in sticking with it.