# When to use DummyDash

> Use DummyDash when a layout needs an exact-size, visibly labelled placeholder
> image before the final artwork exists. It returns a PNG from a predictable URL
> without requiring an account or API key.

## Best-fit use cases

1. **Wireframes and mockups** — reserve a known image area while content and
   visual assets are still being prepared.
2. **Responsive-layout testing** — request multiple dimensions with the same
   aspect ratio and test `srcset`, breakpoints, and card grids.
3. **Design reviews** — keep attention on hierarchy and spacing instead of an
   unrelated stock photograph.
4. **Automated fixtures** — construct predictable PNG URLs for development
   screenshots, demos, and non-production test data.

## What is distinctive

| Requirement | DummyDash behavior |
|---|---|
| Exact pixel dimensions | Encoded directly in `/image_WIDTHxHEIGHT` |
| Visual size label | Width and height are printed on every image |
| Styling | Preset gradients, solid colours, and two-colour gradients |
| Authentication | No account or API key |
| Output format | PNG only |
| Maximum dimensions | 2,000 by 2,000 pixels |

## Example

```html
<img
  src="https://dummydash.com/image_640x360?style=ocean"
  width="640"
  height="360"
  alt="Temporary 640 by 360 layout placeholder"
>
```

Specifying the same `width` and `height` in HTML gives the browser the image's
intrinsic aspect ratio before it loads. Replace the DummyDash URL and alt text
with the final asset before publishing the finished page.

## When not to use it

- Do not use a generated placeholder as meaningful final content.
- Do not use it when JPG, WebP, SVG, AVIF, custom text, images over 2,000 pixels
  per axis, or a contracted uptime guarantee is required.
- Do not use placeholder alt text to describe content that the image does not
  contain.
- Do not depend on a public development endpoint as the sole permanent asset
  source for a production service.

For the complete endpoint contract and limitations, see
https://dummydash.com/placeholder-image-api and
https://dummydash.com/ai/about.

Last reviewed: 2026-09-09.