How to Change the PowerPoint Ribbon Color and Office Theme
Question details
The user wants to change the default ribbon color or theme in Microsoft PowerPoint to make the interface easier to read.
- Product
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Customizing the presentation software workspace to remove the default burnt orange interface and improve overall text and icon readability.
- Observed behavior
- The PowerPoint ribbon is displayed in a burnt orange color, which is difficult for the user to read.
Ensure you have the PowerPoint application open on your desktop. Note that changing the theme in PowerPoint will also apply the same color scheme across other installed Microsoft Office applications.
Change the Office Theme via PowerPoint Options
Adjust your general personalization settings to switch from the default Colorful theme to a White, Dark Gray, or Black theme for better readability.
Microsoft Office bundles the ribbon color and application background into overarching 'Office Themes'. By updating this setting in PowerPoint, you can remove the default orange ribbon and replace it with a higher-contrast alternative.
Launch Microsoft PowerPoint. Click on the 'File' tab located in the top-left corner of the ribbon, then select 'Options' at the very bottom of the left-hand menu.
In the PowerPoint Options dialog box that appears, select the 'General' tab from the left pane.
Scroll down to find the section labeled 'Personalize your copy of Microsoft Office'. Click the drop-down menu next to 'Office Theme' and choose your preferred option, such as 'White' or 'Dark Gray'.
Click the 'OK' button at the bottom right of the window. The ribbon color and overall application theme will update immediately.
Experience a Cleaner, Customizable Interface with WPS Office
If you are looking for an office suite with better out-of-the-box readability and easier customization, consider trying WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible alternative with intuitive personalization features.
- 1. Download and Install WPS Office: Download WPS Office for free from the official website and complete the quick installation.
- 2. Open WPS Presentation: Launch the application and open your existing .pptx files seamlessly.
- 3. Customize Your Interface: Click the 'Skin Center' (t-shirt icon) in the top-right corner to instantly switch to a Dark, Light, or custom color theme that suits your reading preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change the ribbon color without changing the entire Office theme?
No, Microsoft Office ties the ribbon color to the overall Office Theme (such as Colorful, Dark Gray, White, or Black). You cannot modify just the ribbon color independently of the background.
Why is the Office Theme drop-down menu missing in my settings?
If you do not see the Office Theme option, you might be using an older version of Office, a web-based version, or your software may need an update. Make sure you are using an activated desktop version of Office 2016 or newer.
How do I make the ribbon permanently black?
To get a black ribbon, go to File > Options > General, and under 'Personalize your copy of Microsoft Office', select 'Black' from the Office Theme drop-down menu. Note that this requires a Microsoft 365 subscription.
