Visual Studio 2012 and SSMS 2012 (Dark Theme)

Before Visual Studio 2012 and SSMS 2012, quite a number of developers including myself (or Scott Guthrie) previously working with Visual Studio version (VS 2008 and VS 2010) were very excited when we found out about the dark theme! The bright white background were killing my eyes, I actually thought I might become blind pretty soon.

If you haven't heard about the dark theme, check out studiostyl.es and they have tons of Visual Studio color schemes. Here are a few color scheme choices at studio styles website. Awesome isn't it? All you need to do is download your desired color scheme, and import into your VS using the Import and Export setting under Tools menu.

What about SSMS (SQL Server Management Studio)? Any love for database developer/admin who uses SSMS regularly? In previous SSMS version (2008 R2, 2008, 2005), the only way to change the color is changing it one by one in Fonts and Colors under environment option. No quick import. Boo..

Wait.. there is good news. SSMS 2012 (Get the full version of SSMS free here, choose the appropriate SSMS 64-bit or 32-bit exe during download) is built on Visual Studio 2010. Means, it is supporting Visual Studio features like multi-monitor, VS short key, and yes, the darker theme import option! You can navigate to studiostyl.es to download your favorite color scheme and import right into SSMS 2012. Voila!

For developer who is using Visual Studio 2012, you can continue using those dark scheme that you used in previous version, or try the native dark theme that shipped in VS 2012. Under Tools -> Options, Environment -> General, there are two options Dark and Light. Try it and see if it suits your taste. If not, you can always change it or download one from studio styles website.

Those who like to have a consistent view of SSMS 2012 dark theme with Visual Studio 2012 native dark theme, check them out at studio styles website. Someone has already designed the theme. Search something like 'Visual Studio 2012 dark theme for Visual Studio 2010' and you may find something you like.

That's it. Christmas gift for you eyes! Happy coding!