css filter generator

How to use the css filter generator

  1. Upload an image or use the default preview photo.
  2. Adjust each filter slider independently: brightness (0-200%), contrast (0-200%), saturate (0-200%), hue-rotate (0-360deg), blur (0-20px), grayscale, sepia, invert, opacity, drop-shadow.
  3. The preview updates in real-time. Stack multiple filters in any order — order matters for some combinations.
  4. Compare before/after with the toggle.
  5. Copy the filter: declaration — apply to any <img>, <video>, or even a whole section with a background image.

When to use it

CSS filters are runtime — they don't modify the source image, which means you can theme, tint, or restyle images across an entire site without re-exporting them. Use them for hover states, dark-mode image tints, colorizing icon SVGs, and subtle brand consistency. Don't use them for production hero images where every millisecond matters — filters are GPU-accelerated but still cost paint time. Alternative: cssfilter.com was the first in this category but doesn't include drop-shadow or combined presets.

Example

/* Duotone brand tint */
.brand-image {
  filter: grayscale(100%) sepia(100%) hue-rotate(200deg) saturate(300%);
}

/* Dark mode photo softening */
.dark img { filter: brightness(0.85) contrast(1.1); }

/* Disabled button state */
.btn:disabled { filter: grayscale(50%) opacity(0.6); }

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between filter and backdrop-filter?
filter applies to the element itself and its contents. backdrop-filter applies to whatever is painted behind the element (used for glassmorphism). Both accept the same functions.
Do filters work on SVG?
Yes, but with caveats. CSS filters on SVG work in modern browsers. For more complex effects inside an SVG, use native SVG <filter> elements which offer more primitive operations.
Are there performance implications?
Filters force the browser to re-composite on every paint. Avoid applying filters to elements that repaint frequently (scrolling containers, animated elements). Static hero images and hover states are fine.
Can I animate filters?
Yes — filters are interpolatable. transition: filter 200ms works on most filter functions. Exception: drop-shadow color transitions can be choppy across browsers.
How do I create a duotone effect?
Combine grayscale(100%) with sepia(100%) and hue-rotate() to shift the tint to your brand color, then saturate() to intensify. The tool includes duotone presets.

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Last updated: 2026-04-23