Is dark mode really the best default for a forum like this one?

[John]

Dark mode has become the assumed default preference for a lot of websites and forums, praised for reducing eye strain in low light and generally looking more modern than a plain white background. But readability research is genuinely mixed on whether dark mode actually helps most people read long text comfortably, with some studies suggesting light backgrounds are genuinely easier on the eyes for extended reading specifically. Curious whether people think dark mode actually deserves the default slot here or if it's mostly aesthetic preference

What's your actual preference for reading forum content for extended periods, and why specifically. Genuinely curious how people land on this

[Debbie]

Light mode is genuinely easier on my eyes for long reading sessions specifically, despite dark mode's reputation, mostly because the contrast feels less harsh over an extended period for me personally. Dark mode looks nicer for a quick glance but genuinely tires my eyes faster during long threads. Individual difference clearly matters a lot here

[Kev94]

Dark mode remains my strong preference purely because of nighttime browsing specifically, since a bright white screen in a dark room genuinely feels aggressive on the eyes regardless of what any specific study concludes. Depends heavily on when and where you're actually reading. Context matters as much as the raw readability research

[Violet Caitlin]

Switching between the two depending on time of day has honestly worked best for me rather than committing to one default permanently.

Most good forum software already supports that toggle easily enough. Feels like the actual solution is offering both well rather than debating which single one should be forced as default