For screen readability, what contrast do you prefer?

December 04, 2003 | Comments Closed

Summary: For screen readability, do you prefer dark text on light background, or light text on a dark background? I’m about to make a post on the subject and wanted to hear your thoughts.

From Anton

It kind of depends on what it is I’m reading. For most things I prefer dark text on a light background. Black on white.

This holds especially true for anything over a paragraph in length. I can handle light text on a dark background for something short, like navigation items or forms, but for anything longer I found I prefer the traditional dark on light contrast.

I’m not sure as far as usability goes which is better, but I do think what is most important is to make sure that contrast is there, whichever you choose.

Filed under: FAQs