Web Design: Fixed Width vs. Liquid Layouts

Ensio Matthews    – Phoenix, AZ
123Triad: Web Design & SEO Company

Web Design: Fixed Width vs. Liquid Layouts

One thing to consider in web designing is choosing between a fixed width layout and a liquid layout.  Both of these layouts have its advantages and drawbacks, and in some instances, one might work well compared to the other.  Below you can find some pros and cons of each type of layout.

Fixed Width vs. Liquid Layouts

Fixed layouts are those that are specifically set by the Web designer.  They remain that width all throughout, even if the user viewing the page has a different browser window size.  This type of layout allows the web designer to have more control on how the page will look across different computers and browsers.  From the name “fixed width,” it remains consistent all throughout, regardless of the browser being used by the site visitor.

Liquid layouts, on the other hand, are those that flex or adapt depending on the browser window’s size.  This provides for efficient usage of space, as it can adapt to any screen resolution or browser window size.

Fixed Width Layouts

A fixed width layout has its benefits.  It allows the web designer to create pages that will appear consistent regardless of who is viewing them, and on what computer or browser.  Also, because it is a fixed-width layout, the images won’t overpower or overlap text when viewed on smaller monitors since the fixed width will already encompass those elements.

The bad thing is that it could result into horizontal scrolling especially in smaller browser windows.  And mind you, not many visitors want to scroll horizontally.  In larger monitors, it could also result into large amounts of white space.

Liquid Layouts

Using liquid layouts has its benefits.  It contracts and expands to suit the available space, making it very efficient.  And because it is flexible, the web designer can put up more content for larger monitors and browser windows, but will still look viable even on smaller displays.

The drawback is that there is little control over the width of the page elements.  This can result into large columns of text that might be inconvenient to scan (on large browsers) or small words (on smaller browsers.)  In some cases, the images might overlap the text.

123Triad webdesign offers affordable custom website design. Our full service website design company only hires certified website designers. Please contact us today on 1-800-720-0816 for your next web site design project.

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