FAQ
General
Is GradLab free to use?
Yes. GradLab is free and runs entirely in your browser with no account required.
Do I need to install anything?
No. GradLab runs as a web application — open the URL and start creating. No plugins, no desktop app, no dependencies.
Which browsers are supported?
Any browser with WebGL support can run GradLab. MP4 export additionally requires WebCodecs H.264 encoding; current Chrome and Edge provide the most consistent support.
Is my work saved automatically?
GradLab keeps settings in memory while the page is open; refreshing or closing the page does not automatically save the creative configuration. To preserve a configuration, use Export Code to save a self-contained HTML file with all parameters embedded.
How do I restore a Param Code?
Click Upload Image / Param Code in the Palette section, or drag the downloaded Param Code PNG anywhere onto the GradLab page. The DataMatrix image contains a short recovery ID; GradLab retrieves the full parameters from its backend, so restoration requires an internet connection.
Export & Quality
What resolution are exported PNGs?
PNG dimensions are the Canvas W/H values multiplied by Math.max(2, devicePixelRatio) and the selected 1×/2×/3× export scale. For example, a 640×360 canvas at DPR 2 and 3× scale exports at 3840×2160. Window size does not determine output dimensions.
Can I export a transparent PNG?
Not currently. The canvas renders against a solid background. Add transparency or rounded corners in an image editor.
Why is MP4 export unavailable in my browser?
GradLab uses WebCodecs to render every H.264 frame offline. If the browser or device cannot provide an H.264 encoder at the chosen dimensions, use the latest Chrome or Edge, or choose a lower export scale.
Performance
The animation is stuttering — what should I do?
Try reducing the Speed slider and disabling the ASCII Matrix layer if enabled — the character grid is CPU-intensive at large sizes. Closing other GPU-heavy browser tabs can also help.
Does GradLab work on mobile?
Yes. The WebGL engine runs on mobile browsers. PNG and HTML export work broadly; MP4 export depends on the browser and device providing WebCodecs H.264 encoding.
Use Cases
Can I use GradLab outputs in commercial projects?
Yes. Exports are yours to use. There are no watermarks or usage restrictions on exported PNG, video, or HTML files.
How do I embed the gradient in my website?
Use Export Code to get a self-contained HTML file, then embed it via <iframe> in your page. Set width: 100% and height: 100% on the iframe for a full-bleed background.
Can I use the exported gradient as a video background?
Yes. Export a short MP4 clip with Ping-pong Loop enabled, then use it as an HTML5 <video> with autoplay loop muted playsinline.