How to Reduce Computer Eye Strain by Switching to High Contrast (Windows 7)

Last Updated: August 4, 2021

The high contrast themes change the background to black and the text to white. This high contrast theme is vastly easier on the eyes and reduces eye strain. If you're looking at a monitor for extended periods, this will make your day easier. It will seem weird at first, but give it a try! You will wish you had found this sooner! There are three pre-made high contrast themes built into Windows 7. The change can be done easily and quickly. Just a few clicks.

Part 1

Part 1 of 2:

Understanding How High Contrast Reduces Eye Strain

1
Note that monitors have a backlight. When you look at your monitor, you are essentially staring into a lamp. If you do this for extended periods, you can understand how this would fatigue your eyes. The default windows setting has an incredible amount of bright white areas. Keep in mind that white on a computer monitor is not like white on paper. A computer monitor is white because it's a lamp - a light source.

Part 2

Part 2 of 2:

Switching to High Contrast

1
Right click on your screen. Scroll down to 'Personalize'.
2
Scroll down to 'Basic and High Contrast Themes'.
3
Select the High Contrast Black.
- You can also select High Contrast #1 for yellow text on black background or # 2 for green text on black background.