
Finally, a real dark mode for SQL Server Management Studio!
Save your eyes with a nice dark theme.
Download for Windows
SQL Shades v0.6 · SSMS 18 & 19 · 4,970 KB
Loved by thousands of database experts worldwide


What is SQL Shades?
Shades is the dark mode add-in for SQL Server Management Studio 18 and 19.
How do I get the dark theme in SSMS?
Just install the SQL Shades extension and it'll darken everything automatically, including what SSMS' hidden dark mode misses.
Does SSMS have a dark mode?
Via the SQL Shades plugin, yes! Otherwise, since SSMS uses the Visual Studio shell, you can hack its config to enable Visual Studio's dark mode. There's a glaring reason the SSMS devs disabled it, though: Only controls from Visual Studio are themed. Window border and code editor? Yes. Object explorer and other elements unique to SSMS? No.
Does SQL Shades darken everything, then?
SQL Shades themes the things you use on a daily basis and is getting more complete with every release. See any blatant omissions? Send a screenshot to [email protected]
Are there any settings I can tweak?
A few. You can open the settings dialog from the Tools → SQL Shades Settings menu.
Can I change how code looks in the script editor?
Yep! Script editor text colors, fonts, and sizes can be set via SSMS' Fonts and Colors settings. Find it under Tools → Options → Environment → Fonts and Colors.
Can I use my own custom color scheme with SQL Shades?
If you have a favorite color scheme you'd like to see added to SQL Shades, or want to encourage me to make a theme bulider for SQL Shades, send me an email.
Can you send me an email when new versions are released?
Sure! Fill this out, then click the confirmation link in the email it sends you:
Download SQL Shades
Enjoy all the darkness your heart desires.
Download for Windows
SQL Shades v0.6 · SSMS 18 & 19 · 4,970 KB
About Me

Michael Van Devender
Your friendly neighborhood SQL Shades developer
Full-stack developer with two decades of
experience bending software to his will.
Now that you've joined the dark side, SSMS is halfway modern.
What is the other half?
Version control.