Best Page Transition Examples That Will Inspire Your Creativity

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In 2025, users don’t just browse websites—they experience them. And what turns a basic digital interaction into a memorable journey? Smooth, intentional best page transition examples.

Whether you’re building a portfolio, ecommerce platform, or a SaaS product, transitions between pages can dramatically enhance how users perceive and engage with your brand.

These visual cues offer a sense of flow, eliminate abrupt screen changes, and elevate your overall UX. 

In this Design Journal guide, we’ll walk you through the best page transition examples—from minimal fade-ins to interactive shape/shifting cards, that not only look stunning but serve a functional purpose too.

Page transitions are important in modern websites

Gone are the days when websites were just a collection of static pages. Today, users expect dynamic interactions and smooth navigation that feels almost app-like.

That’s where CSS page transitions and animation frameworks come into play. They add rhythm and visual continuity to your site, helping users intuitively follow the journey without confusion or disorientation.

More than just eye-candy, smartly crafted page transition effects reduce bounce rates, keep users engaged longer, and increase the perceived professionalism of your site.

From subtle fade transitions that gently introduce content, to bold slide animations that direct user flow, these techniques turn good websites into great ones.

Best page transition examples

Below are the best page transition examples you can explore and implement, each offering a unique way to create smoother, more immersive website experiences.

1. Slide transition

A slide transition animates one page sliding out of view while another slides in, typically from the left, right, top, or bottom. This directional flow creates the illusion of spatial movement—like turning a page in a book or sliding between screens in an app.

Slide transitions maintain momentum. They’re especially effective for mobile-first designs or multi-step flows like onboarding, walkthroughs, or wizard-style forms. They prevent sudden jumps and help users stay mentally anchored in the UI.

Implementation:
This is one of the simplest CSS page transitions, achieved using transform: translateX() or translateY() and smooth transition timing.

Use cases:

• Mobile-style navigation
• Content carousels
• SPAs (Single Page Applications)

Why It’s among the best page transition examples:

• Because it blends function and visual appeal while being light on code.
• It’s also easy to adapt for responsive layouts.

2. Fade transition

A fade transition is a simple yet elegant effect where the current page gradually fades out, and the new content fades in. It manipulates only the opacity of elements to create a soft dissolve.

Minimalism is powerful. The fade transition is subtle, non-intrusive, and enhances UX by gently guiding the user from one view to another without overwhelming them.

Implementation:
Use CSS transitions on the opacity property. It’s lightweight and performs well even on low-powered devices.

Use cases:

• Blog articles
• Image galleries
• Content-heavy websites

Why it’s among the best page transition examples:
Because it’s universally compatible, smooth, and perfectly suited for any modern UI using CSS page transitions.

3. Morphing / Shape-shift transition

Morphing transitions animate one shape into another—like a button morphing into a modal or an image transforming into a new layout. This involves transitioning between complex SVG paths or clipping shapes.

It’s visually striking and intuitive. The morph suggests that two elements are connected, even when they look completely different. It enhances storytelling and interactive brand experiences.

Implementation:
Use libraries like GSAP’s MorphSVG or anime.js for precise control. For lighter transitions, clip-path in CSS works too, but with some limitations.

Use cases:

• Product showcases
• Interactive portfolios
• Design agency websites

Why it’s among the best page transition examples:
Because it creates high-impact, memorable experiences that go beyond basic CSS page transitions, while still being functional and usable.

4. Expanding / Contracting cards

In this effect, a small UI card (like a preview tile) expands into a larger detail view, or contracts back into its place. It’s a highly interactive and space-efficient way to dive deeper into content.

It helps users stay focused by transitioning within the same visual context. There’s no hard jump to another page—just smooth growth or collapse, improving perceived performance and UX.

Implementation:
Can be done using CSS transitions on width/height or transform/scale properties, often with JavaScript to toggle active states.

Use cases:

• Blog previews
• Ecommerce product cards
• Case studies

Why it’s among the best page transition examples:
Because it keeps users engaged longer and bridges the gap between summary and detail without leaving the page—maximizing modern page transition effects.

5. Page split transition

Page split transitions divide the screen into two sections—either vertically or horizontally—and animate them apart to reveal new content underneath or in between.

It creates a dramatic “reveal” moment. Think of a curtain pulling back to display the next act. It’s both functional and cinematic.

Implementation:
You can build this using Flexbox or Grid layouts and animate the flex-grow or widths of divs using either CSS or JS (GSAP preferred for precision).

Use cases:

• Storytelling interfaces
• Hero sections with CTA reveals
• Fashion and media brands

Why it’s among the best page transition examples:
Because it visually divides and leads attention, introducing layers of meaning to your layout.

6. Cubic bezier animations with GSAP

GSAP (GreenSock) enables highly customizable easing curves using Cubic Bezier logic. These allow you to create fluid, unique motion paths that go beyond standard easing presets like ease-in or ease-out.

These transitions feel natural. You can simulate real-world motion like elasticity, gravity, or inertia—making transitions more intuitive and emotionally resonant.

Implementation:
Use GSAP with a custom easing string like ease: “cubic-bezier(0.77, 0, 0.175, 1)”.

Use cases:

• Premium brand sites
• Interactive web apps
• Complex animation UIs

Why it’s among the best page transition examples:
Because it brings true craftsmanship to page transition effects—bridging code and artistry.

7. Instagram-like story transitions

Inspired by Instagram, this transition effect automatically (or via swipe) cycles between full-screen sections or “stories.” Pages transition through fade or slide, often with a timer.

People are already familiar with this pattern. It’s engaging, mobile-first, and great for digestible, narrative content.

Implementation:
Use Swiper.js or Flickity.js to build swipe-enabled carousels with smooth transitions and autoplay features.

Use cases:

• Product features
• Interactive storytelling
• Visual journalism

Why Ii’s among the best page transition examples:
Because it blends user expectations with fresh interaction. Especially effective for responsive, mobile-friendly CSS page transitions.

8. Navigation bar transitions

These transitions animate the elements within your navbar during navigation—like sliding underlines, active item highlights, or background changes.

It keeps the user visually informed about where they are, subtly guiding them through your user interface while adding brand flavor.

Implementation:
Combine transform, scale, or clip-path with JS-based route detection or active class toggles.

Use cases:

• SaaS platforms
• Portfolios
• Dashboards

Why it’s among the best page transition examples:
Because navigation is often overlooked. Enhancing it with css page transitions elevates the experience without distracting users.

9. View transition API

A game-changing browser-native API (currently supported in Chromium browsers) that allows you to animate DOM changes—like navigating between URLs—without full page reloads.

It gives you SPA-like smoothness with SEO-friendly architecture. Perfect for developers who want to avoid bloated frameworks while still delivering modern UI experiences.

Implementation:
Start the transition using:

js

CopyEdit

document.startViewTransition(() => {

  window.location.href = “/next-page”;

});

Use cases:

• Blogs and media sites
• Ecommerce
• Corporate websites

Why it’s among the best page transition examples:
Because it represents the future of page transition effects, providing cleaner, faster transitions natively.

Websites with stunning page transition effects

The following websites have successfully implemented some of the best page transition examples, showcasing how thoughtfully executed motion design can bring a website to life.

Eco Brade

Eco Brade is a portfolio site focused on sustainable design thinking. But what really catches your attention isn’t just their mission—it’s how they present it. Every click feels like a continuation of a narrative.

Page transition effects used:

• Shape morphing transitions between sections
• Expanding cards that turn into full-screen modules
• Gentle fade-ins layered with parallax scroll elements

Eco Brade’s transitions aren’t flashy—they’re fluid. Their CSS page transitions create a sense of calm and intentionality, which aligns beautifully with their sustainable brand values.

Key lesson:
Consistency matters. The transitions here reinforce the brand’s tone while keeping the user immersed in the story.

Buzzworthy Studio

As a creative digital agency, Buzzworthy Studio lives up to its name by pushing bold, experimental interfaces—especially when it comes to page transition effects.

Page Transition Effects Used:

• Page splits with layered depth animations
• Cubic bezier easing with GSAP for smooth custom curves
• Dynamic navigation bar transitions with animated feedback

Each interaction feels like a scene in a high-end trailer. From hover states to full-page changes, every transition commands attention without overwhelming the user.

Key Lesson:
When branding is loud, transitions can be louder—if they’re executed with control. This site is a perfect case study in blending creativity with usability.

Lottiefiles

Lottiefiles is the go-to platform for JSON-based animations, and they practice what they preach. Their site is loaded with seamless transitions that highlight how lightweight animations can feel premium.

Page Transition Effects Used:

• Lottie animations embedded during page changes
• Fade transitions with layered elements
• Icon-to-page morphing animations

Rather than overwhelming visitors with long animations, Lottiefiles demonstrates how CSS page transitions can be subtly enhanced with micro-animations—giving users a taste of what Lottie is capable of.

Key Lesson:
You don’t need complex motion to make a statement. Thoughtful use of page transition effects tied to micro-interactions can amplify UX without slowing down performance.

Flyreel

Flyreel is an AI-powered property intelligence platform, and their site is a masterclass in functional storytelling. It uses transitions not just for aesthetics, but to guide the user logically through a journey.

Page Transition Effects Used:

• Expanding cards that lead into detailed content
• Slide-in transitions triggered by scroll and click
• Viewport-based animations that follow the user’s pace

Everything here is purposeful. The transitions are clean, aligned to user intent, and never distract from the goal—converting curiosity into action.

Key Lesson:
Motion graphics should support UX. Flyreel proves that the best page transition examples aren’t always the flashiest, but the most context-aware.

Conclusion

Page transitions are no longer just about aesthetics—they’re about guiding users, reinforcing brand personality, and making every interaction feel intentional. The best page transition examples do all of this while still maintaining performance, accessibility, and usability.

From classic CSS page transitions like slide and fade to advanced techniques using GSAP and the View Transition API, you now have a toolkit to craft web experiences that feel smooth, modern, and memorable.

Whether you’re designing a minimalist blog or a high-impact portfolio, the right page transition effects can elevate your site from functional to fantastic.

As the web continues to move toward immersive storytelling and seamless interactivity, mastering these transitions isn’t optional—it’s essential.

Pro tip: Start simple. Use transitions to support content, not distract from it. Once you’re comfortable, layer in complexity with purpose.

Frequently asked questions

Which transition effect is best for websites?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. However, fade and slide transitions are among the most versatile and widely used.

For creative sites, morphing or expanding cards can add a premium feel. The best choice depends on your content, user flow, and brand personality.

Are CSS page transitions enough for modern websites?

For basic effects like fades, slides, or simple reveals, yes—CSS page transitions are efficient and easy to implement.

But for more dynamic or interactive animations (like path morphing or advanced timing), JavaScript libraries like GSAP offer greater control.

What is the difference between animation and transition in CSS?

A transition animates a change from one property value to another over time, triggered by events (like hover or click).

An animation, on the other hand, can have multiple keyframes and run automatically or infinitely. Both can be used in page transition effects, depending on the desired outcome.

Is the View Transition API production-ready?

As of 2025, the View Transition API is supported in Chrome and other Chromium-based browsers.

While it’s still gaining traction across all browsers, it offers a native, SEO-friendly way to build smooth page transition effects—ideal for developers who want SPA-like feel without the overhead.