How to Create CSS Easing Functions for Smooth Animations
Easing functions control the pace of CSS animations and transitions - they determine how quickly properties change over time. Instead of linear motion that feels robotic, easing creates natural acceleration and deceleration like objects in the real world. This guide shows you how to create custom easing curves visually without memorizing cubic-bezier coordinates.
Step 1: Open the Easing Function Visualizer
Visit fixie.tools/easing to access the interactive curve editor. The tool shows a graph where the X-axis represents time progression (0-100%) and Y-axis represents property value change.
Step 2: Choose a Preset or Create Custom
Start with CSS presets like ease, ease-in, ease-out, ease-in-out, or linear. For custom curves, adjust the cubic-bezier control points by dragging handles in the visual editor.
Step 3: Adjust the Acceleration Curve
Drag the two control point handles to shape the easing curve. Moving handles up creates faster acceleration. Moving them down slows the start. The curve shape shows exactly how the animation will progress over time.
Step 4: Test with Live Preview
Click the preview animation to see your easing function in action. Compare different easing types side-by-side to find the most natural motion for your use case (fade-ins, slide-outs, hover effects, page transitions).
Step 5: Copy the CSS Code
The tool generates the exact cubic-bezier() or keyword value to use in your CSS. Copy and paste into transition-timing-function or animation-timing-function properties. Works with all CSS animations.