Why Did the Text Color Change in Dark Mode After Upgrading Microsoft Visual Studio Professional 2019 to Version 16.5.3?

Many developers have experienced the frustration of finding their familiar color schemes changing after an update to Microsoft Visual Studio Professional 2019. If you are one of those users who upgraded to version 16.5.3, and you noticed that the text color changed in dark mode, you're not alone. Let's explore the reasons behind this issue and how to resolve it.

Cause of the Text Color Change

The change in the text color in dark mode after upgrading to Microsoft Visual Studio 2019 version 16.5.3 can be attributed to a variety of factors. One of the most common culprits is the option for synchronizing settings across devices. This feature, accessible via Tools - Options - Account, might be causing the problem.

Syncing Settings Across Devices

When this feature is enabled, it ensures that your settings on one machine are kept in sync with those on other devices you use with Visual Studio. However, sometimes this automatic syncing feature can inadvertently change your color settings, leading to the text color changing in your preferred dark mode.

How to Check and Resolve the Issue

To check if the syncing feature is the cause of your problem, follow these simple steps:

Go to Tools - Options in Visual Studio. Navigate to Account. Look for the option that says "Synchronize settings across devices when signed into Visual Studio." If this option is enabled, disable it by unchecking the box next to it. Restart Visual Studio to see if the color settings have changed.

Alternative Solutions

If disabling the syncing feature doesn't resolve the issue, consider the following alternatives:

Reset Settings: In the Options menu, select Environment - Import and Export Settings.... Choose to reset your settings to the default template. Customize Themes: Explore the built-in themes or import a custom theme that matches your preferences.

Conclusion

Updating Visual Studio can sometimes cause unexpected changes in the user interface, such as alterations in the text color when using dark mode. By understanding the potential causes and taking appropriate steps to resolve the issue, you can return your Visual Studio to its preferred settings. If you continue to encounter problems, you might want to consult Microsoft's support resources for further assistance.

Keywords Microsoft Visual Studio Dark Mode Text Color Changes References

1. Microsoft Visual Studio Documentation: