For the final T-SQL Tuesday of 2024, Kevin Chant invites us to write about a Microsoft Data Platform announcement that felt like a present from Microsoft. While it might not have matched the joy Ralphie felt with his Red Ryder BB gun at the end of “A Christmas Story,” I was still excited to see a dark theme coming to SQL Server Management Studio.
Click the T-SQL Tuesday logo to read over the full invite. While you’re there, be sure to check out the Festive Tech Calendar 2024 – fundraiser for Beatson Cancer Charity.
Dark Christmas
I’ll admit it’s probably recency bias, and it’s not the most significant feature to come along, but a recent announcement that felt like a present was the inclusion of dark theme in the SQL Server Management Studio 21 preview. SSMS has been around for a long time without a dark theme option. Azure Data Studio has a dark theme but it doesn’t have the same functionality as SSMS. I don’t know if anyone was switching back forth between applications just because of a theme but now they won’t have to.
Why Dark?
Working in a more brightly lit SSMS is fine once your eyes get used to it. But when you’re switching back and forth from dark applications to light applications, it can take an extra second or two to adjust.
My Windows theme is dark. Most applications I use are dark. My web browser has the Dark Reader extension to make sites dark if they’re not already. If I’ve been in a window besides SSMS for a while and then switch back, it can feel similar to somebody flipping the lights on while you’re trying to get a good night’s sleep.
Potential Health Benefits
Speaking of sleep, that’s another area where a dark theme can help. In addition to feeling easier on the eyes, a dark theme typically means less blue light, which can help keep your circadian rhythm in check. Just like the “Eye Comfort Shield” mode on your phone helps to reduce blue light as day turns to night, a dark theme can help you feel ready for bed better than a bright screen.
Merry Christmas!
Hopefully, the light theme areas that remain in the preview get cleaned up for the full release, and those of us who prefer dark themes can take care of our SQL servers with a little less eye strain.
Thanks for reading!
Chad Callihan 