Quick answer: pick your colors and gradient type in our free CSS Gradient Generator, preview it live, and copy the generated CSS code directly.
Linear vs Radial Gradients
Linear gradients transition colors along a straight line at any angle — great for backgrounds and buttons. Radial gradients transition outward from a center point — useful for spotlight or glow effects.
The CSS Syntax
A basic linear gradient looks like: background: linear-gradient(135deg, #FF6B9D, #C44FFF);. The angle controls direction, and you can add as many color stops as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use more than two colors?
Yes, add multiple color stops for multi-color gradients.
Do gradients work in all browsers?
CSS gradients are supported in all modern browsers without prefixes.
Can I use gradients as text color?
Yes, using background-clip: text with a transparent text color, though it requires extra CSS beyond the basic gradient.
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Open the Tool →Choosing a gradient that stays readable
A gradient is a gradual transition between two or more color stops. Use a linear gradient when the transition should move in a direction, and a radial gradient when color should spread from a point. For example, linear-gradient(135deg, #2457D6, #25C7A9) creates a diagonal blend, while radial-gradient(circle, #fff, #dbeafe) creates a centered glow.
Color stops control where each color begins. In linear-gradient(90deg, #1d4ed8 0%, #1d4ed8 35%, #14b8a6 100%), the first color holds for the first third before transitioning. This is useful when white text needs a steady dark area behind it. You can layer multiple backgrounds by separating them with commas, but remember the first listed layer is drawn on top.
Check contrast and test the result
Place text over the lightest and darkest parts of the gradient and verify that it remains easy to read. Avoid relying on color alone to communicate status. Test the design on a narrow phone screen too: a gradient that looks balanced across a wide button can become an abrupt stripe when the component is small. Keep a solid background color as a fallback for older or restricted rendering environments.
For a quick workflow, choose the direction, set two colors, then add stops only when the transition needs more control. Copy the CSS into a small test element before using it across a full page.
Make the gradient easier to maintain
Use CSS custom properties when the same brand colors appear in several gradients, for example var(--brand-blue) and var(--brand-mint). That lets you adjust the palette in one place. Save a screenshot of the intended direction and check the transition in both light and dark sections. If a gradient is decorative, keep it out of the way of focus rings, labels, and button text.