Blue Light Filter in Windows 10: Understanding Its Benefits and How to Enable It
In the era of digital dominance, our daily lives are intricately woven with the use of electronic devices such as computers, smartphones, and televisions. However, with this technological integration comes a growing concern about the potential health risks associated with the blue light emitted by these devices. Blue light, categorized as high-energy visible (HEV) light, has been linked to disruptions in our circadian rhythm, leading to issues like eye strain, headaches, and sleep disturbances. Acknowledging these concerns, Microsoft has integrated a blue light filter into its Windows 10 operating system to address these challenges.
This article delves into the concept of blue light, exploring its impact on our well-being and shedding light on the benefits of utilizing the blue light filter available in Windows 10. We will guide you through the process of activating the built-in night light feature, while also introducing a third-party alternative, CareUEyes, which offers a more comprehensive solution to enhance eye protection. As we navigate the intricacies of blue light and its effects, let’s empower ourselves with the knowledge and tools needed to strike a balance between our digital lifestyles and our health.
What is Blue Light?
Blue light is a form of light that is given off by electronic devices such as computers, smartphones, and televisions. It has a shorter wavelength than other kinds of light and belongs to the high-energy visible (HEV) light range. Research has shown that this particular type of light can disrupt our circadian rhythm, which is the internal clock in our bodies that controls our sleep and wake patterns.
Windows 10 night light: Blue light filter for Windows 10
The latest Windows 10 update includes a feature called night light, which is designed to reduce the amount of blue light emitted from the screen. This feature aims to reduce eye strain and promote healthy sleep patterns by adjusting the color temperature to create a warmer screen appearance and decrease blue light emission.
You also have the option to personalize the Night Light preferences by selecting the Night light settings. Here, you can establish a specific schedule for when Night Light should activate and deactivate, and also modify the color temperature to suit your preferences.
How to enable the night light feature
To enable the blue light filter in Windows 10, you need to perform the following steps:
1. From the Start menu, click on the Settings button.
2. When Windows Settings appears on the screen, click on the System option.
3. Click on the “Display” option.
4. Click on the night light settings.
5. Toggle the night light switch to On.
6. By sliding, you can adjust the color temperature as per your requirement.
Disadvantages of the night light mode
1. The night light mode in Windows 10 initially alters color accuracy. It may take time for your eyes to adjust when first using the feature, but they will eventually become accustomed to it. However, if you are editing videos or photos on Windows, you may need to disable the night light to maintain precise color accuracy. This can be inconvenient as you have to manually switch the night light on and off frequently.
2. A drawback of the nightlight mode in Windows 10 is that it only allows for one color temperature mode to be set. However, individuals may require different color temperatures for different situations. For instance, they may prefer a lower color temperature when checking emails or reading web pages, but would not want the screen color to be significantly altered when playing games or watching movies. Therefore, it would be more convenient if the nightlight feature could support multiple color temperature modes.
3. One drawback of the nightlight mode in Windows 10 is that it lacks support for hotkeys to modify the color temperature. To adjust the color temperature, you typically have to follow six steps to access the adjustment settings.
4. One drawback of the night light mode in Windows 10 is that it does not allow for different color temperatures to be set for daytime and nighttime. This means that you have to manually adjust the color temperature again when the sun sets and rises.
For individuals seeking to enhance their sleep, activating the night light after sunset is sufficient. However, those aiming to minimize blue light exposure for eye protection should also utilize the night light feature during the daytime. Nevertheless, the amount of blue light filtration required during the day is typically less than at night, thus necessitating the adjustment of different color temperatures for day and night settings.
A more perfect third-party alternative
To address the limitations of Windows 10 night light, you have the option to install a third-party software known as CareUEyes. CareUEyes functions similarly to the Windows 10 night light by filtering blue light through color temperature adjustments. However, what sets it apart is that it is not only compatible with Windows 10, but also with XP, Windows 7, and Windows 8.
CareUEyes is easier to use than the night light feature
1. Eight built-in color temperature modes for you to choose
CareUEyes has eight modes for you to choose from, you just need to experience each mode one by one when you use it for the first time, and you can find the most suitable model for you.
2. Convenient and quick to adjust the color temperature
If the default mode doesn’t meet your satisfaction, you have the option to adjust the color temperature using the slider on the main interface of CareUEyes. Additionally, you can also customize the hotkeys to conveniently adjust the color temperature according to your preference.
3. You can set different color temperatures for day and night
Simply activate the sunrise and sunset features of CareUEyes to customize color temperatures for day and night. CareUEyes will automatically adjust the color temperature according to the sunrise and sunset times you set.
4. Powerful customization rules
You have the option to customize the rules for entering specific modes while using an application. For instance, you can choose to pause the color temperature adjustment when using Photoshop, which activates the Pause mode. Similarly, you can activate the game mode when running CS: GO.
5. More eye protection features
CareUEyes is more than just a blue light filter; it also has the capability to modify screen brightness, enhance focus, and provide reminders for regular breaks. This software offers multiple features for protecting the eyes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Windows 10’s night light feature is a step towards mitigating the impact of blue light, its limitations, such as color accuracy adjustments and a lack of customization options, make it less versatile for users with varied needs. For a more effective and user-friendly solution, CareUEyes emerges as a superior alternative. With its eight color temperature modes, convenient adjustments, and the ability to set different temperatures for day and night, CareUEyes not only provides enhanced eye protection but also offers additional features like screen brightness modification and break reminders. For a comprehensive and tailored blue light filter experience, I highly recommend users to opt for CareUEyes.