What is a CSS Box Shadow Generator?
A CSS box shadow generator is a visual tool that lets you build CSS box-shadow values using sliders instead of manually writing code. You adjust horizontal offset, vertical offset, blur radius, spread radius, color, and opacity — and see a live preview of how the shadow looks on an element. The tool outputs the exact CSS code ready to paste into your stylesheet.
How to Use the CSS Box Shadow Generator
Adjust the sliders to control each shadow property. The live preview box on the right updates in real time. Toggle "Inset Shadow" to switch between outer and inner shadow modes. When satisfied, click "Copy" to copy the generated CSS directly to your clipboard. The output includes the complete box-shadow property ready to use in your CSS.
CSS Box-Shadow Property Syntax
box-shadow: [inset] offset-x offset-y blur-radius spread-radius color;
- offset-x: Horizontal distance. Positive = right, negative = left
- offset-y: Vertical distance. Positive = down, negative = up
- blur-radius: How soft the edge is. 0 = hard edge
- spread-radius: Expands/shrinks shadow size
- color: Shadow color — usually rgba() for transparency control
- inset: Optional keyword — renders shadow inside the element
Benefits of Using a Visual CSS Box Shadow Generator
- See exactly what each parameter does without memorizing the syntax
- Experiment quickly with different shadow styles
- Produces clean, ready-to-use CSS code
- Toggle inset to test both outer and inner shadow styles
- No need to reload the page — live preview updates instantly
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CSS box-shadow property syntax?
box-shadow: [inset] offset-x offset-y blur spread color. Example: box-shadow: 0 4px 8px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.2). Multiple shadows: comma-separate them.
What is the difference between blur-radius and spread-radius?
Blur = edge softness (0 = sharp, 100 = very diffuse). Spread = shadow size expansion (positive = bigger than element, negative = smaller). Negative spread + blur = realistic shadow that doesn't spill sideways.
How do I create a subtle card shadow in CSS?
Use two stacked shadows: box-shadow: 0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.1), 0 2px 8px rgba(0,0,0,0.06). Low opacity (0.05–0.15) gives natural results.
What is an inset shadow and when should I use it?
Inset renders shadow inside the element. Use for: pressed button states, input focus glow, or a recessed/engraved appearance. Syntax: box-shadow: inset 0 2px 4px rgba(0,0,0,0.2).
Does box-shadow affect layout or page performance?
No layout effect. Performance: large blur radii can be costly when animated. For animated shadows, use will-change: box-shadow or animate with filter: drop-shadow() instead.
Can I apply multiple box shadows to one element?
Yes — comma-separate them: box-shadow: 0 2px 4px rgba(0,0,0,0.1), 0 8px 24px rgba(0,0,0,0.08). First listed = rendered on top.
What is the difference between box-shadow and filter: drop-shadow()?
box-shadow follows the rectangular border-box. drop-shadow() follows the actual visible shape (works correctly on transparent PNGs and SVGs). drop-shadow() doesn't support inset.
How do I create a neon glow effect with box-shadow?
Stack multiple shadows with identical bright color: box-shadow: 0 0 5px #00ff00, 0 0 10px #00ff00, 0 0 20px #00ff00. Use saturated colors for strongest effect.