This article is specially catered to our Digital Marketing course students.
Responsive websites differ from normal (or non-responsive) websites in how they adapt to different screen sizes and devices. Below are a few key differences between the two:
Responsive Websites:
1.Adaptability to Screen Sizes: A responsive website adjusts its layout and content dynamically based on the user’s device screen size. It provides an optimal viewing experience on various devices, such as desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
2.Fluid Grids and Relative Units: Responsive design uses fluid grids and relative units (percentages) for layout elements, allowing them to scale proportionally. This ensures that the content flows smoothly and maintains its proportions across different screens.
3.Flexible Images and Media: Images and multimedia elements are resized and scaled to fit different screen sizes while preserving their aspect ratios. This prevents images from appearing too small or too large on different devices.
4.Media Queries: CSS3 media queries are used to apply specific styles and adjustments based on the device’s characteristics, such as screen width, orientation, and resolution. This allows for tailored styling for different devices.
5.Optimal User Experience: Responsive websites offer a seamless and user-friendly experience, eliminating the need for excessive zooming or scrolling. Users can access content without frustration, regardless of their device.
Normal (Non-Responsive) Websites:
1.Fixed Layout: A normal website has a fixed layout designed for a specific screen size, often optimized for desktop or laptop screens. It doesn’t adjust or adapt to different screen sizes, leading to usability issues on smaller devices.
2.Fixed Pixel-Based Units: Layout elements are often defined using fixed pixel-based units. This can result in elements not fitting properly on smaller screens, causing content to be cut off or requiring users to scroll extensively.
3.Limited Mobile-Friendly Experience: Normal websites may not provide a satisfying experience on mobile devices. Text may be too small to read, images may be too large, and navigation might be challenging.
4.Inconsistent User Experience: Users accessing a normal website on different devices may encounter difficulties in navigation, readability, and interaction. This can negatively impact user engagement.
5.May Require Pinching and Zooming: Users might need to pinch and zoom to view content, which can be frustrating and detract from the overall browsing experience.
A responsive website adapts to a variety of screen sizes and devices, whereas a normal website has a fixed layout and may not perform optimally on smaller screens. In light of the prevalence of mobile devices, responsive design has become a standard practice in order to ensure that websites are compatible with a wide range of users and devices.