How to enable dark mode in Retool?

 

Enabling Dark Mode in Retool

 

Incorporating a dark mode in Retool applications enhances visual comfort during extended usage, especially in low-light environments. While Retool offers a range of customizable options, enabling a dark theme involves leveraging CSS and understanding Retool's environment. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to enable dark mode in Retool.

 

Prerequisites

 

• Basic understanding of CSS (Cascading Style Sheets).
• Access to a Retool account with the appropriate permissions to modify the app.
• Familiarity with Retool's interface and component structure.

 

Accessing Custom Styling Options

 

• Log in to your Retool account and open the application for which you want to enable dark mode.
• Navigate to the Settings option in the top header to explore app customization options.

 

Using CSS to Enable Dark Mode

 

• In the application settings or main editing interface, locate the CSS section reserved for custom styling.
• Input global-level CSS that targets the background, text colors, and other visual elements. Example CSS for dark mode:

  <pre>
  body {
    background-color: #121212;
    color: #ffffff;
  }
  
  .component-class {
    background-color: #1e1e1e;
    border-color: #333333;
  }
  
  a {
    color: #bb86fc;
  }
  </pre>
  

• Customize the CSS as needed to fit the unique components of your Retool application. Consider headers, tables, buttons, and other UI components.

 

Applying the CSS to Specific Components

 

• To apply styles to specific Retool components, use the developer tools to inspect the component and identify its class or ID.
• Write targeted CSS rules for individual components if a global dark mode setting alters the appearance undesirably.
• Example:

      #specific-component-id {
        background-color: #2c2c2c;
        color: #ececec;
      }
      

 

Testing and Adjustments

 

• After implementing the CSS, switch to the preview mode to examine how the dark mode influences the app's display.
• Check all pages and components for visibility and readability. Conduct usability testing to ensure a positive user experience.
• Adjust font sizes, colors, and spacing if necessary to facilitate better readability in dark mode.

 

Implementing Dark Mode Toggle

 

• Create a toggle button or switch in your Retool application UI to allow users to switch between light and dark modes.
• Use a JavaScript query or event handler that triggers the dark mode CSS dynamically based on user interaction.
• Example JavaScript toggling:

  <pre>
  function toggleDarkMode() {
    const bodyClass = document.body.classList;
    bodyClass.contains('dark-mode') ? bodyClass.remove('dark-mode') : bodyClass.add('dark-mode');
  }
  </pre>
  

• Add corresponding CSS rules that are conditionally applied.

  <pre>
  .dark-mode body {
    background-color: #121212;
    color: #ffffff;
  }
  </pre>
  

 

Deploying the Application

 

• Once all the dark mode adjustments are complete, deploy the application by clicking Publish Changes in Retool.
• Verify the dark mode implementation across different browsers and devices to ensure compatibility and performance.

 

By following these steps, you can successfully implement a dark mode feature in your Retool application, enhancing the aesthetic appeal and usability for users working under various lighting conditions.