How to Change Background Color in AutoCAD

By Cedric Published June 19, 2023

AutoCAD, developed by Autodesk, is one of the most widely used computer-aided design (CAD) programs around the world. From architects to engineers, professionals across various fields use this versatile software to design, draft, and model in 2D and 3D spaces. One important aspect of using AutoCAD efficiently involves customizing the workspace according to individual preferences, and that includes knowing how to change background color in AutoCAD.

This comprehensive guide will take you through the process of altering the background color in AutoCAD, enhancing your design experience and reducing eye strain during long work sessions. Let's get started!

Why Change Background Color in AutoCAD?

Before we dive into the how, let's understand the why. The default background color in AutoCAD is black, which may not suit everyone's preferences. Changing the background color can provide numerous benefits:

Ease of Viewing: Lighter background colors may reduce eye strain, especially when working for extended periods.
Personal Preference: Some users may find certain colors more visually pleasing than others.
Visibility: Certain colors can enhance the visibility of the design elements, especially when working with particular line colors.

A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Change Background Color in AutoCAD

Changing the background color in AutoCAD is a straightforward process. Here are the steps:

Step 1: Open the Options Window

Begin by opening AutoCAD on your device. Click on the 'Application' button (it appears as a large, red 'A' at the top left corner of the screen), then navigate to 'Options' in the dropdown menu. This will open the 'Options' window.

Step 2: Navigate to Display Tab

In the 'Options' window, select the 'Display' tab located at the top of the dialog box.

Step 3: Access Colors Option

Within the 'Display' tab, you will find a 'Colors' button in the 'Window Elements' section. Click on this button to open the 'Drawing Window Colors' dialog box.

Step 4: Customize Your Colors

In the 'Drawing Window Colors' dialog box, you can customize the color of various elements, including the background. To do this, follow these steps:

In the 'Context' dropdown menu, select '2D model space' (or '3D parallel projection' if you work in 3D).
In the 'Interface Element' section, select 'Uniform background'.
In the 'Color' dropdown menu, choose your desired color for the background.

Step 5: Apply the Changes

After selecting your desired color, click on the 'Apply & Close' button. This will close the dialog box and apply the color changes to your workspace.

And voila! You have successfully changed the background color in AutoCAD. This process can be repeated anytime you wish to alter the color again.

Some Helpful Tips

Customizing your AutoCAD workspace doesn't stop at changing the background color. Here are some additional tips to enhance your AutoCAD experience:

Command Line Color: Like the background color, you can also change the color of the command line for better visibility and contrast.
Crosshair Color: The color of the crosshair, or cursor, can be altered to make it more visible against your chosen background color.
Plot Style: Use different plot styles to ensure your designs are visible and accurately represented when printed, regardless of your screen's background color.
Screen Menu Colors: Customize your screen menu colors to match your chosen theme and enhance overall visibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change the background color in AutoCAD on a Mac?

Yes, you can change the background color in AutoCAD on a Mac. The process is similar to the steps mentioned above.

Can I set different background colors for Model space and Layout/Paper space?

Yes, AutoCAD allows users to set different background colors for Model space and Layout/Paper space.

Can I save my color settings and apply them to other projects in AutoCAD?

Yes, once you have customized your color settings in AutoCAD, you can save them as a 'Profile.' This profile can be loaded onto any new project, applying all your saved settings.

I changed my background color, but it's not showing up. What could be the problem?

Ensure that you clicked 'Apply & Close' after selecting the color. If you simply close the dialog box without applying the changes, your chosen color will not be set.

Can I change the color of other elements in AutoCAD besides the background?

Yes, AutoCAD allows users to customize the color of various elements, including the command line, crosshair, and different types of lines (like visible lines, hidden lines, etc.)

Customizing your AutoCAD workspace by changing the background color is a simple yet effective way to enhance your overall design experience. Whether you want to reduce eye strain, increase visibility, or simply enjoy a more personalized workspace, knowing how to change background color in AutoCAD is an essential skill. Happy designing!