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Create Custom CSS Radial Gradients Create CSS radial gradients with custom shape, position, and colors.

Radial Gradient Generator illustration
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Radial Gradient Generator

Create CSS radial gradients with custom shape, position, and colors.

1

Choose Colors

Set the center color and the edge color for the gradient.

2

Configure Shape

Select circle or ellipse shape and set the center position.

3

Copy CSS Code

Copy the generated CSS code for your project.

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What Is Radial Gradient Generator?

A radial gradient generator creates CSS gradients that radiate outward from a center point in a circular or elliptical pattern. Unlike linear gradients that transition along a straight line, these gradients create spotlight-like effects, glowing orbs, and depth effects that are commonly used in modern web design. You can control the gradient shape (circle or ellipse), center position, and colors. The generator produces CSS radial-gradient() code that works in all modern browsers. They are particularly effective for creating visual depth, spotlight effects on hero sections, decorative backgrounds, and subtle lighting effects that make flat designs feel more dimensional.

Why Use Radial Gradient Generator?

  • Circle and ellipse shape options for different effects
  • Adjustable center position with X/Y sliders
  • Live preview updates as you change settings
  • Clean, production-ready CSS output
  • Free to use without signup

Common Use Cases

Spotlight Effects

Create focus-drawing spotlight effects on hero sections or product images.

Glow Effects

Generate glowing orb backgrounds for cards, modals, or decorative elements.

Depth & Dimension

Add visual depth to flat designs with subtle radial color transitions.

Vignette Effects

Apply dark-edge vignettes over images for a cinematic look.

Technical Guide

CSS radial-gradient() creates a gradient radiating from a point. The syntax is: radial-gradient(shape at position, color1, color2). The shape can be "circle" (even radius in all directions) or "ellipse" (radius matches the element aspect ratio). Position uses percentage values (50% 50% is center). Size keywords like closest-side, farthest-corner control how far the gradient extends. Color stops work the same as in linear gradients. The browser interpolates colors from the center outward in concentric circles or ellipses. These gradients are compositable — you can layer multiple gradient layers using comma separation in background-image for complex effects like multiple light sources.

Tips & Best Practices

  • 1
    Use "circle" for perfect round gradients and "ellipse" for aspect-ratio-aware shapes
  • 2
    Position the center off-center (e.g., 30% 30%) for asymmetric lighting effects
  • 3
    Layer multiple radial gradients for complex multi-light-source effects
  • 4
    Use transparent as an edge color for subtle fade-out effects over backgrounds
  • 5
    Combine with background-blend-mode for creative overlay effects

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q What is the difference between circle and ellipse in CSS radial-gradient?
Circle creates a perfectly round gradient regardless of element dimensions. Ellipse stretches to match the element aspect ratio, creating an oval shape in non-square elements.
Q Can you change the center position of a CSS radial gradient?
Yes, using the X and Y position sliders (0-100%). The default is 50% 50% (center). Moving it creates asymmetric, off-center lighting effects.
Q Is radial-gradient supported in all browsers?
Yes, radial-gradient() is supported in all modern browsers without vendor prefixes.

About This Tool

Radial Gradient Generator is a free online tool by FreeToolkit.ai. All processing happens directly in your browser — your data never leaves your device. No registration or installation required.