CSS Tools/CSS Animation Builder
CSS Animation Builder
Create stunning CSS keyframe animations with interactive timeline editor
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Loading...CSS Animation Guide
Learn how to create engaging CSS animations
What is CSS Animation?
CSS animations allow you to animate transitions between CSS styles. Unlike transitions, animations can have multiple keyframes that define intermediate steps, giving you complete control over the animation sequence. Animations can run automatically, loop infinitely, and be controlled with JavaScript.
How to Use This Tool
- Configure animation settings like duration, timing, and iteration
- Add keyframes to define animation states at different points
- Adjust properties like opacity, scale, rotation at each keyframe
- Preview the animation and copy the generated CSS code
Pro Tips
- Use the 'alternate' direction for smooth back-and-forth animations
- Combine transforms (scale, rotate, translate) for complex effects
- Use 'forwards' fill mode to keep the final state after animation ends
Browser Support
CSS animations are fully supported in all modern browsers including Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge. The @keyframes rule and animation properties have excellent cross-browser compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between CSS animations and transitions?
Transitions animate between two states when triggered (like hover), with simple start and end points. Animations use @keyframes to define multiple intermediate states, can run automatically on page load, loop infinitely, and provide more control over timing and sequencing. Use transitions for simple state changes, animations for complex sequences.
How do I make an animation repeat forever?
Set 'animation-iteration-count: infinite' or use the shorthand with 'infinite' keyword: 'animation: myAnimation 2s ease infinite'. The animation will loop continuously until stopped. Combine with 'alternate' direction for smooth back-and-forth motion without jarring jumps.
What does 'animation-fill-mode' do?
animation-fill-mode controls element styling before/after animation. 'forwards' keeps the final keyframe state after animation ends. 'backwards' applies the first keyframe state during delay period. 'both' combines both behaviors. 'none' (default) returns to original state. Use 'forwards' when you want the animated state to persist.
How can I pause or control an animation with JavaScript?
Use 'element.style.animationPlayState = "paused"' to pause and '"running"' to resume. You can also add/remove a class that sets animation-play-state. For more control, use the Web Animations API which provides play(), pause(), reverse(), and finish() methods along with timing control.
Are CSS animations performant?
CSS animations can be very performant when animating compositor-friendly properties: transform and opacity. These run on the GPU without triggering layout recalculations. Avoid animating width, height, margin, or top/left as they cause expensive reflows. Use 'will-change' property sparingly to hint browser optimization.