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DarkModeBuddy

github.com/insidegui/DarkModeBuddy Mac Apps Open-source projectOpen source

DarkModeBuddy switches a Mac between light and dark themes based on ambient light sensor readings.

Visit DarkModeBuddy 24 alternatives
github.com/insidegui/DarkModeBuddy
DarkModeBuddy homepage screenshot

About DarkModeBuddy

DarkModeBuddy is a small, open-source macOS app that runs in the background and reads the Mac's built-in ambient light sensor — the same sensor used to adjust screen brightness — to switch the system between Light and Dark modes. When ambient light falls below a configured value, it switches the Mac to Dark Mode; when the level rises above that value, it returns to Light Mode. To prevent flickering, the change in light level must persist for a configurable amount of time before the theme switches.

The app requires macOS Catalina or later and a Mac with a built-in ambient light sensor; external displays with ambient light sensors are not currently supported. A non-exhaustive list of verified MacBook Air, MacBook Pro and iMac models is given in the README, and pull requests adding support for other hardware are welcomed.

Key features

  • Switches the macOS system theme using readings from the built-in ambient light sensor
  • Configurable ambient light threshold for switching to Dark Mode and back
  • Configurable persistence time so brief light changes don't cause flickering
  • Runs in the background and changes the theme automatically
  • Open source under a BSD-2-Clause license
  • Free download, with an optional pay-any-amount contribution to support development
Best for: Mac users with a built-in ambient light sensor who want the system theme to follow room lighting rather than the time of day.
Good for
  • Open source under a BSD-2-Clause license
  • Free to download, with an optional pay-any-amount contribution
  • Verified to work on a range of MacBook Air, MacBook Pro and iMac models
Watch out for
  • Requires macOS Catalina or later
  • Needs a Mac with a built-in ambient light sensor; external displays with ambient light sensors are not supported
  • The verified model list is non-exhaustive, so some hardware may not be supported

DarkModeBuddy at a glance

Type
Open-source project
Pricing
Not confirmed. Check the site
Platforms
macOS
Open source
Yes · Source code
Language
English
Last checked
Oct 6, 2026 · Online when checked
Listed
Oct 5, 2026
open sourcemacos

DarkModeBuddy alternatives

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eul

github.com/gao-sun/eul

eul monitors macOS system status from the menu bar, with dark mode, widgets, and Bluetooth battery level listed.

open sourcemacos
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DarkModeBuddy FAQ

How does it differ from macOS's built-in Auto mode?
The built-in Auto mode is based on time of day and will not switch the Mac to Dark Mode while it is being used. DarkModeBuddy instead reads the ambient light sensor and can switch during active use.
What does it require to run?
macOS Catalina or later and a Mac with a built-in ambient light sensor. External displays with ambient light sensors are not currently supported.
How much does it cost?
It is free and open source, and users can optionally pay any amount to support the developer's work. The latest build is available on Gumroad.
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Listing maintained by Chris McClure and the WebIndexly editors · Updated Oct 11, 2026 · How we rank