Native Theme vs Dream Skin
Understand the differences between the two export modes and choose the right one for your needs.
What is a Native Theme?
A Native Theme uses Codex Desktop's built-in appearance settings. It consists of a JSON configuration that defines colors, fonts, and basic styling. You import it through Settings > Appearance > Import Theme.
Best for: Users who want a quick, safe way to change colors and fonts without modifying application files.
What is a Dream Skin?
A Dream Skin is an image-led data package that includes a background image, theme settings, installation scripts, verification steps, and a restore path. It uses the Codex Dream Skin engine to inject visual layers through the Chromium DevTools Protocol.
Best for: Users who want a fully immersive workspace with custom background images, blur effects, and panel transparency.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Native Theme | Dream Skin |
|---|---|---|
| Background image | No | Yes |
| Custom colors | Yes | Yes |
| Custom fonts | Yes | Yes |
| Panel opacity | No | Yes |
| Background blur | No | Yes |
| Image position | No | Yes |
| Installation method | Settings import | Local script |
| Restart required | No | Yes |
| Platform support | All | Windows + macOS |
| Restore difficulty | Easy (1 click) | Medium (script) |
| Risk level | Minimal | Low |
| File format | JSON | Data package |
Which should you choose?
Choose Native Theme if:
- You only want to change colors and fonts
- You want the simplest installation
- You want to avoid modifying application files
- You are on Linux or an unsupported platform
Choose Dream Skin if:
- You want a custom background image
- You want blur, dim, and panel opacity controls
- You want a fully immersive workspace
- You are comfortable with local scripts
Safety
Both modes are designed with safety in mind. Native Themes only modify color settings that Codex officially supports. Dream Skins use a non-invasive injection approach that does not modify official application files. Both include a clear restore path.
FAQ
Can I switch between modes?
Yes. You can create a Native Theme and a Dream Skin for the same color configuration. They are independent.
Will Dream Skins void my warranty?
Dream Skins do not modify official Codex files. They inject visual layers at runtime. You can restore the default appearance at any time.
Do Dream Skins work on Linux?
Currently Dream Skins support Windows and macOS. Linux support is planned for a future release.