Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
Key Takeaways
- Windows 11 includes a built-in feature called Night light that reduces blue light to decrease eye strain and improve sleep quality.
- To turn on Night light, open Settings, go to Display, and switch Night light to On.
- You can adjust the strength of blue light with a slider or schedule Night light to automatically activate from sunset to sunrise.
- If Night light is missing, update your graphics driver and check for display support for color temperature adjustment.
- For more control, consider third-party apps like f.lux or use your monitor’s built-in blue light filter.
If your eyes feel tired after long screen time—or you’re using your PC late at night—Windows 11 includes a built-in blue light filter called Night light. It reduces blue light by shifting your screen to warmer colors, which helps reduce eye strain and may improve sleep quality.
I’m walking you through this step by step, in simple language, so you can do it right now without confusion.
What Is Blue Light on Windows 11?
Blue light is a high-energy light emitted by screens that can:
- Cause eye fatigue
- Trigger headaches
- Disrupt sleep patterns at night
Windows 11 reduces blue light using Night light, and you can turn it on, adjust it, or schedule it anytime.
How to Turn Off Blue Light on Windows 11 (Turn ON Night Light)
This is the main and recommended method.
Step 1: Open Settings
I press Windows key + I
or I click Start > Settings
Step 2: Go to Display Settings
I click System on the left
Then I select Display
Step 3: Turn On Night Light
Under Brightness & color, I switch Night light to On
The screen instantly changes to warmer tones. Blue light is now reduced.
Adjust Blue Light Strength (Make It Comfortable)
If the color feels too yellow or too light, I customize it.
- I click the arrow next to Night Light
- I use the Strength slider
- Move right → warmer colors (less blue light)
- Move left → cooler colors (more natural look)
I adjust it until it feels comfortable for my eyes.
Schedule Night Light Automatically
This is perfect if you work late or want eye protection every evening.
Option 1: Sunset to Sunrise
- I turn the schedule night light ON
- I choose Sunset to sunrise
⚠ This requires Location services to be enabled.
Option 2: Set Custom Hours
If I want full control:
- I turn Schedule night light ON
- I select Set hours
- I choose:
- Turn on time
- Turn off time
Example:
I set it from 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM so blue light stays off overnight.
Quick Way: Turn Night Light On or Off Instantly
When I don’t want to open Settings, I do this instead:
- I click the Network, Volume, or Battery icons on the taskbar
or I press Windows key + A - I tap the Night light button
It turns on or off immediately.
What If Night Light Is Missing?
If I don’t see Night light:
- I update my graphics driver
- I check that my display supports color temperature adjustment
- I restart my PC after updates
This fixes most issues.
Alternative Ways to Reduce Blue Light
Use Third-Party Apps
Some users want more control than Windows offers.
Popular options:
- f.lux – Adjusts color temperature based on time and location
- Iris – Advanced eye protection with brightness and PWM control
These apps offer finer tuning than Windows Night light.
Use Monitor’s Built-In Blue Light Filter
Many modern monitors include:
- Low Blue Light
- Eye Saver Mode
- Reading Mode
I enable this using the physical buttons on the monitor (OSD menu).
This works even if Windows Night light is off.
Does Night Light Really Help?
Yes—especially for:
- Night work
- Long study sessions
- Gaming late at night
- Office work with extended screen time
While it won’t cure eye problems, it significantly reduces strain.
Quick FAQ
No. It only changes the screen color.
Yes, but some monitors handle blue light better using built-in settings.
It’s safe, but most people prefer it in the evening or at night.
Final Thoughts
Turning off blue light on Windows 11 using Night light is one of the easiest ways to protect your eyes and improve comfort—especially for U.S. users working long hours on laptops or desktops.
