How do I change the theme in Cursor?
Changing the Theme via Command Palette
The quickest way is to open the Command Palette with Ctrl+Shift+P (Windows/Linux) or Cmd+Shift+P (Mac) and type 'Color Theme'. Select 'Preferences: Color Theme' and choose from the list. Cursor includes several built-in themes, and any themes you've installed from the VS Code Marketplace will also appear.
You can preview themes by using the arrow keys to navigate the list; the editor updates in real time. Press Enter to confirm your choice. This method works for both light and dark themes.
- Use Ctrl+K Ctrl+T (Windows/Linux) or Cmd+K Cmd+T (Mac) as a shortcut.
- Themes are applied immediately without restarting Cursor.
- You can install more themes from the Extensions view.
Changing the Theme via Settings
If you prefer a more permanent change, open Settings with Ctrl+, (Windows/Linux) or Cmd+, (Mac). Search for 'theme' and select your preferred option from the dropdown. You can set separate themes for the overall UI and the editor.
Cursor also respects your operating system's dark/light mode if you choose the 'Auto' option. This can be handy if you want Cursor to match your system appearance throughout the day.
Common mistakes
- Thinking Cursor has a unique theme system; it uses VS Code's theme engine.
- Forgetting that some themes require specific extensions to be installed.
- Expecting theme changes to affect the AI chat interface; it usually only changes the editor and UI.
