You made a gradient. Now you're looking at export options. CSS? PNG? SVG? Which one? Here's when to use each.
The Core Difference
CSS gradients are code. PNG gradients are images. Everything else follows from that.
CSS Gradients
Defined by code, rendered by the browser
- ✓ Scales infinitely without blur
- ✓ Tiny file size (just text)
- ✓ Can be animated
- ✓ Easy to edit later
- ✗ Only works in web browsers
PNG Gradients
Actual image file with pixels
- ✓ Works anywhere images work
- ✓ Exactly the same everywhere
- ✓ No browser rendering differences
- ✗ Gets pixelated when scaled
- ✗ Larger file size
Use CSS When...
It's for a website
If it goes on a webpage, use CSS. Loads faster, scales on any screen, easy to edit later.
It needs to scale
CSS gradients stay sharp at any size. PNGs get pixelated when stretched.
You might animate it
CSS gradients can be animated. PNGs can't.
File size matters
CSS gradient: ~100 bytes. PNG gradient: 50KB+. For web, CSS is way faster.
Use PNG When...
It's not for web
PowerPoint, Photoshop, video editors—they need image files, not CSS.
Color accuracy is critical
Browsers render CSS gradients slightly differently. PNG shows exactly what you see.
It's for 3D or games
3D software and game engines use image textures. Export as PNG or JPG.
Social media
Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn all need image files. PNG or JPG.
Print materials
Flyers, posters, business cards. Export high-res PNG (300 DPI+).
What About SVG?
SVG sits between CSS and PNG. It's code saved as a file. Use it when:
- • You need scalable files (icons, logos)
- • Your design tool supports SVG but not CSS
- • You want quality and portability
Downside: bigger file size than CSS, and older software might not support it. For more on choosing formats, see our PNG vs SVG comparison.
Quick Decision Guide
Bottom Line
The choice is usually obvious. Website = CSS. Design mockup = PNG. Game texture = PNG. Email = PNG (email clients don't handle CSS well).
If you pick wrong, export again. Takes 10 seconds.
Create gradients in any format
Our free gradient app lets you export in CSS, PNG, JPG, SVG, or WebP. Create once, export in any format you need.
Try the Gradient Tool →