How to Change Colors of CMD in Windows

Changing the color scheme of Command Prompt (CMD) in Windows is an easy and fun way to personalize your computing experience. Whether you’re a coder, system administrator, or simply a user who spends a lot of time in the Command Prompt, customizing the appearance of CMD can make it more visually appealing and easier on the eyes. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the simple steps to change the colors of CMD in Windows, as well as offer some tips for advanced users to further tweak the look. By the end of this post, you’ll know how to customize your CMD window with vibrant or soothing colors, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.

Why Change the Colors of CMD?

Many users prefer changing the colors of the Command Prompt because the default black background with white text can become monotonous after long periods of use. Altering the color scheme not only makes the window more visually engaging, but it also helps with readability, especially if you’re working for extended hours. With different color options, you can choose a combination that’s easier on your eyes, whether it’s light, dark, or custom colors. Plus, for users with a more creative or personalized workspace, changing colors can add a unique flair to your CMD window. Let’s dive into how you can start this customization process.

Accessing the CMD Properties Menu

To change the colors of CMD, you first need to access the properties menu. Open the Command Prompt by pressing the "Windows + R" keys, typing “cmd,” and pressing Enter. Once the Command Prompt window appears, right-click on the title bar at the top of the window. From the drop-down menu, select "Properties." This will open a new window where you can adjust various settings, including the colors of your Command Prompt.

Modifying the Text and Background Colors

In the "Properties" menu, click on the "Colors" tab to access the color options for both the text and background. Here, you’ll find a selection of predefined colors, but you can also choose a custom color by selecting “Screen Text” or “Screen Background.” Once you’ve selected your desired option, you can pick a color from the palette or input a specific RGB code for more precise customization. For example, you could use a light blue background with white text for a calming effect, or a black background with bright green text for a retro look. Don’t forget to hit "OK" once you’re satisfied with your new settings!

Exploring Color Presets for Quick Changes

For those who want a quick and simple way to change the CMD color scheme, Windows CMD offers several preset themes. By clicking on the "Colors" tab in the Properties menu, you can choose from themes like "Black on White," "White on Black," and "Green on Black." These preset color combinations are designed for optimal visibility and provide a good starting point for users who are unsure about which colors to choose. While these colors may not be as customizable as selecting individual colors, they’re a great option for beginners or those who want instant results.

Customizing Colors with RGB Values

For a truly personalized experience, you can modify the colors by inputting RGB (Red, Green, Blue) values in the CMD properties. In the "Properties" menu under the "Colors" tab, you’ll see text fields where you can enter specific RGB values to create your custom colors. By adjusting the RGB values, you can create a near-infinite variety of color combinations. For example, inputting “255, 0, 0” will give you a bright red color, while “0, 255, 0” will create a vibrant green. This feature gives you complete control over the CMD color scheme.

Saving Your Custom CMD Color Scheme

Once you’ve selected the perfect colors for your CMD window, you’ll want to save your settings to avoid resetting them every time you open the terminal. After applying your desired colors, simply click "OK" to save the changes. The new color scheme will be applied every time you open the Command Prompt unless you change it again. For those who frequently work in CMD, saving a personalized theme ensures you don’t have to go through the process of customizing the colors repeatedly.

Using Command Line to Change CMD Colors

For users who are comfortable with the command line, you can also change the colors of CMD by using the "color" command directly in the terminal. To do this, open the Command Prompt and type the following command: color [XX], where "[XX]" is a two-digit hexadecimal number representing the color combination. The first digit corresponds to the background color, and the second digit represents the text color. For example, typing color 0A will give you a black background with green text. This command is a fast and efficient way to change the colors on the fly.

Making CMD Color Changes Persistent

If you want to make sure that your CMD color preferences stay consistent across system reboots, you’ll need to modify the default properties. Open the "Properties" window and go to the "Options" tab. Check the box labeled “Use legacy console” to make the changes persist across sessions. While this is not mandatory for casual users, it’s an essential step if you need your color preferences to remain fixed every time you launch CMD.

Advanced Customization with Registry Editor

For those who like to take things a step further, the Windows Registry Editor offers even more control over the appearance of CMD. By accessing the registry (type “regedit” in the Start menu search), you can change several settings related to the Command Prompt, including its font, size, and color scheme. However, be cautious when editing the registry, as incorrect changes can impact system stability. Always back up your registry before making any modifications. With the Registry Editor, you can fine-tune your CMD window beyond the options available in the standard Properties menu.

Tips for Choosing the Best CMD Color Scheme

When selecting your color scheme for CMD, consider the contrast between the text and the background. Too little contrast may make the text hard to read, while too much contrast may strain your eyes over long periods of time. Choosing colors that are easier on the eyes, such as soft blues, greens, or grays, can reduce eye strain. Additionally, dark themes are typically preferred for prolonged use because they are less harsh on the eyes. Experiment with different combinations to find the perfect setup for your needs.

Quick Steps to Change CMD Colors

1. Open Command Prompt and right-click the title bar.
2. Select "Properties" from the menu.
3. Go to the "Colors" tab to select text and background colors.
4. Choose from predefined color schemes or customize with RGB values.
5. Click "OK" to apply your settings.
6. Save your changes to persist across sessions.
7. Use the "color" command for quick changes.

Best Practices for Customizing CMD Colors

1. Pick high-contrast colors for better readability.
2. Avoid overly bright colors that may strain your eyes.
3. Experiment with dark themes for prolonged work.
4. Customize the background color to match your workspace’s aesthetic.
5. Use the RGB values for complete control over the colors.
6. Consider using the "color" command for fast color changes.
7. Save your color settings for consistency.

Pro Tip: If you want to change the color scheme for specific command sessions only, use the "color" command to set temporary color preferences that won’t affect future sessions.

“Personalizing the Command Prompt not only enhances your productivity but makes your workspace more comfortable for long coding sessions.”

Changing the colors of your CMD window is a simple way to add some personality to your work environment while improving readability. With a few easy steps, you can create a color scheme that suits your needs, whether you prefer a light or dark theme. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors and settings to find what works best for you. Make sure to bookmark this guide and share it with others who want to elevate their CMD experience on Windows!