CSS Gradients that avoid the “gray dead zone” (joshwcomeau.com)

Article summary

The article discusses the issue of the 'gray dead zone' in CSS linear gradients, where the middle of the gradient becomes desaturated and washed out. This is due to the way CSS calculates gradients by averaging the RGB values of the start and end colors. The article proposes using alternative color modes, such as HSL, to avoid this issue and create more vivid and rich gradients. A tool called 'Gradient Generator' is also introduced to help generate these gradients.

Main themes

• CSS gradients
• color modes
• design and aesthetics
• user experience
• engineering and design
• modal popups and user interface
• appreciation of design
• importance of user experience

What commenters say

• Some commenters suggest that gradient calculations should be hinted by the color space used to define the start and end colors.
• The use of Hue in color modes can be problematic due to its nature as an angle, which can lead to different results depending on the direction of calculation.
• The article's author is praised for their sense of aesthetics, but some commenters feel that design is not their strong suit and that it takes practice to improve.
• The use of modal popups, such as the one on the author's website, is debated, with some finding it annoying and others seeing it as a minor issue.
• Design and engineering are seen as interconnected disciplines, with some commenters arguing that engineers have a significant impact on aesthetics.
• Some commenters believe that developing a sense of design and aesthetics can be a double-edged sword, making one more aware of and sensitive to ugly design.
• Others argue that it is possible to appreciate good design without being a professional designer oneself.
• The importance of design and user experience is highlighted, with some commenters citing Apple as an example of a company that has prioritized these aspects.