Introduction

Hey folks, are you ready to add a touch of darkness to your SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS)? Well, I’ve got some exciting news to share with you!

The Extension You’ve Been Waiting For

As of today, thanks to the work of Michael Van Devender, we finally have a free extension that brings the much-awaited dark theme to SSMS. Yes, you read that right – now we can work in the shadows! The extension is called SQL Shades. Just install it and “it’ll darken everything automatically, including what SSMS’ hidden dark mode misses” as Michael said.

Why you should try it?

Why not?

Well, a dark theme isn’t just a matter of style (although I must say it makes your code look even cooler), but it also has some technical advantages. It reduces eye strain, especially if you spend long hours in front of the screen, and it can even help save energy on your machine if you have an OLED monitor.

I know, I know, SSMS has a dark theme, but only the VS Shell components are actually themed! All the other unique controls in SSMS, like the object explorer, the grids, the panels, unfortunately, aren’t.

Additionally, there is a great roadmap for the future with an open source approach to vote for new features.

How to get started

Trying out this extension is a piece of cake. Simply head over to the official website and click on the Download button. After a quick setup, you’re ready to dive into the darkness!

Supported versions

SQL Shades is available for SSMS 18 and 19

You will love SQL Shades

If you really like it, why not consider making a small donation to the author to show your appreciation?

Conclusions

Wrapping things up, if you’re tired of squinting at the bright lights of SSMS, give SQLShades a try. It’s features are ok already, but many others are going to be released in the next months. Be honest, isn’t this an add-in you were waiting for? A big thanks to Michael, because the time to embrace the shadows has come 😉