Design Tool

CSS Box Shadow Generator

Create CSS box shadows visually with live preview — adjust offset, blur, spread, color

Shadow Controls

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About the Box Shadow

The CSS Box Shadow Generator lets you create box shadows visually. Adjust horizontal/vertical offset, blur, spread, color, and opacity — then copy the CSS property directly into your stylesheet.

How to Use the Box Shadow

  1. Adjust the offset, blur, and spread sliders to shape the shadow.
  2. Pick a shadow color and set the opacity percentage.
  3. Toggle Inset to make the shadow appear inside the element.
  4. Click Copy CSS to copy the box-shadow property.

Why Choose AllOmnitools?

Instant Results

Live preview updates as you drag the sliders. Zero server lag.

100% Private

Everything runs in your browser. No data sent anywhere.

What Are Box Shadows and How Do They Work?

CSS box-shadow is a powerful property that adds depth and dimension to web elements without requiring image files. In 2026, subtle shadows remain a key component of modern UI design, helping create visual hierarchy and improving user experience. The property accepts values for horizontal offset, vertical offset, blur radius, spread radius, color, and an optional inset keyword. Understanding how these values interact allows you to create anything from subtle inner shadows for pressed effects to dramatic outer shadows for floating cards.

Tips for Creating Beautiful Box Shadows

  1. Start subtle: For most UI elements, use low opacity (10-20%) and small offsets (1-3px) to create refined, professional shadows.
  2. Use multiple shadows: Comma-separate multiple box-shadow values to create complex effects like "lifted" cards with colored highlights.
  3. Consider the light source: Keep shadows consistent throughout your design by imagining a single light direction (typically top-left).
  4. Test on different backgrounds: Shadows that look good on light backgrounds may need adjustment for dark mode designs.
  5. Use inset for interactive states: Inset shadows create pressed button effects and add tactile feedback to UI elements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does spread radius do?

Spread radius expands or contracts the shadow. Positive values make it larger than the element; negative values shrink it.

What is an inset shadow?

An inset shadow appears inside the element rather than outside, creating a pressed or recessed effect useful for button states.

Can I stack multiple shadows?

Yes — in your CSS you can comma-separate multiple box-shadow values. Use this tool to generate each one individually for layered effects.

Does box-shadow affect performance?

Box shadows are hardware-accelerated in modern browsers and have negligible performance impact unless animating or using many shadows on large elements.

How do I create a subtle shadow?

Use small offset values (1-2px), low blur (2-4px), and low opacity (10-20%) for subtle, elegant shadows that don't overwhelm your design.

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