The invention relates to a method for preparing N,N'-dimethyl-3,4,9,10-perylenetetracarboxylic diimide (C.I. pigment red 179). A reaction is conducted on N-methyl-1,8-naphthalimide in a system composed of a mixed base composed of caesium hydroxide or hydrate thereof and DBU and polar aryl halide at 140 DEG C-190 DEG C, and N,N'-dimethyl-3,4,9,10-perylenetetracarboxylic diimide can be obtained. After pigment-based processing is conducted on N,N'-dimethyl-3,4,9,10-perylenetetracarboxylic diimide, the crystal form of N,N'-dimethyl-3,4,9,10-perylenetetracarboxylic diimide is the same as that of a C.I. pigment red 179 product.