Z-Index Visualizer

Visualize and understand CSS stacking order with z-index

Box 1
z-index: 1
Box 2
z-index: 2
Box 3
z-index: 3

Related Tools

Z-Index Visualizer: Your Complete Solution

Understand and debug stacking contexts in your web layouts using this Z-Index Visualizer. Easily identify overlapping elements and manage layer order with visual feedback.

Why is it Useful?

Z-index issues can be tricky to spot in complex layouts. This tool helps by:

  • Visualizing element stacking on your page
  • Identifying which elements overlap and why
  • Helping debug layering problems quickly
  • Improving UI design precision and clarity
  • Saving time when troubleshooting front-end issues

Key Features

  • Real-time visual overlay: See each element’s z-index visually
  • Custom z-index input: Test different z-index values dynamically
  • Color-coded layers: Easily distinguish stacking order
  • Context-aware highlighting: Shows when stacking contexts are created
  • Lightweight and interactive: Fast feedback for efficient debugging

How to Use?

  1. Open your webpage in a supported browser
  2. Use the tool to inspect or load DOM elements
  3. View the color-coded stacking hierarchy
  4. Modify z-index values and observe changes
  5. Use visual clues to adjust your layout stacking properly

Use Cases

Best suited for:

  • Frontend developers: Debug complex UI z-index bugs
  • UI/UX designers: Ensure proper layer visibility
  • QA testers: Validate proper rendering of modal/popups
  • CSS learners: Understand how stacking contexts work
  • Anyone: Dealing with CSS positioning and overlapping elements

Benefits

  • Faster debugging: Immediately spot problematic z-index values
  • Better design accuracy: Ensure visual layers appear as intended
  • Interactive learning: Explore CSS stacking in a hands-on way
  • No guesswork: Clearly see stacking issues in real time
  • Time-saving: Reduce hours of troubleshooting layout glitches

Frequently Asked Questions

What is z-index in CSS?

Z-index controls the vertical stacking order of elements on a web page.

How does this tool visualize z-index?

It color-codes and labels elements to show their stacking order visually.

Can I interact with my actual website?

Yes, some versions of the tool allow inspecting live web pages or you can input HTML manually.

Does this tool explain stacking contexts?

Yes, it helps identify where new stacking contexts are created based on CSS rules.

Is the Z-Index Visualizer free?

Yes, it’s completely free to use and works online without sign-up.