Migraine Mode vs Dark Reader: which to use on migraine days

Updated 2026-11-02

Quick answerDark Reader is a free, open-source extension focused on dark themes for websites, with brightness, contrast and sepia controls. Migraine Mode puts dimming, a soft-green tint, smart dark mode, paused GIFs and blocked autoplay behind one switch, with defaults based on studies. If you only want dark sites, Dark Reader is enough.

Dark Reader

  • Free and open source.
  • Generates dark themes for websites with per-site settings.
  • Brightness, contrast, sepia and grayscale controls.

Migraine Mode

  • $3/month after a free hour.
  • One switch or Alt+Shift+M for the whole preset.
  • Stops GIFs, animations and autoplay; schedules and per-site rules.
  • Each default lists its evidence and evidence level.

Using both

  • Running two filters can stack; turn off Migraine Mode's dark mode if you keep Dark Reader.

FAQ

Is Dark Reader good for migraine?

It reduces light from bright pages; it doesn't stop motion or autoplay.

Can I use both?

Yes, but avoid applying dark mode twice.

Sources

  • Dark Reader (official site). Link
  • [Dark mode and luminance contrast effects on visual fatigue at night, low ambient light]. IEEE Access, 2021. Link
  • Miller NJ, Irvin L, Royer M, Strachan C. Visibility and annoyance of the phantom array effect varies with age and history of migraine. Lighting Res Technol, 2024. Link

Not a medical device and not medical advice. Migraine Mode is a screen-comfort tool: it does not diagnose, treat, cure or prevent migraine or any other condition, and it does not replace a doctor. Its settings are based on studies of light, colour, flicker, patterns and motion; the extension itself has not been clinically tested. When to see a doctor.