Should the Default Theme Of This Website For New Users Be Light Or Dark?

    Should the Default Theme of the Website For New Users Be Light Or Dark? 4

    1. The Default Theme For New Users, Before They Select Their Own, Should be LIGHT. (1) 25%
    2. The Default Theme For New Users, Before They Select Their Own, Should be DARK. (3) 75%

    With the recent upgrade of the forum software, let's get the advice of users on a style question: It's easy to set a personal preference for the theme and color of the website by selecting "Change Style" at the bottom right of each page. Once you are a registered user, this style selection also carries over for use of the site on a phone or any other device. This question is to ask your opinion as to what should be the default theme for new users before they register and make a personal selection. In other words, which style (Light or Dark) do you think is most attractive to most people, and most likely to be found inviting and to lead to new users coming back for more. In years past, I would have said light themes are "standard" for a reason, and that most people like them. However today I really prefer dark themes, and this software has an excellent one where you can pick your accent color. So which do you think is the best setting for new visitors - light or dark?

  • Cassius December 7, 2018 at 9:37 AM

    Changed the title of the thread from “Should the Default Theme of the Website For New Users Be Light Or Dark?” to “Should the Default Theme Of This Website For New Users Be Light Or Dark?”.

    I like the dark theme-- I think partly because the contrast is better and less glare. I have read some studies that most younger people prefer dark text and light backgrounds but as we age it can be easier to have a dark background. Contrast sensitivity often decreases with age, and even mild cataracts can create more glare.

    So... maybe part of the answer depends on the age group you think most new members will be in?

    http://www.afb.org/info/reading-a…ore-readable/35

    I perceive bright as more inviting. However, dark is more comfortable to my eyes when working a long time on the computer. So, although I suggest light for the first look, I might set it to dark for myself later on. I agree with Elayne's explanation.