Why Use Tables for Vertical Centering Instead of CSS?

Vertical Centering a Div within a Div: The CSS Limitations and Table Alternatives

Vertical centering a division element within another division element can pose a challenge in CSS. Despite attempts with "top:50%;" and "vertical-align:middle;", the desired alignment may remain elusive.

However, the limitations of CSS in this area become evident when considering vertical centering for a div with an indeterminate height. The answer, as highlighted in the discussion, is not a matter of "good practices" but rather a recognition of CSS's incapacity to handle certain layouts adequately.

Table as a Superior Solution for Vertical Centering

In contrast to the struggles of CSS, table elements excel in handling both vertical centering and side-by-side content. They provide backward compatibility and offer a more effective solution than relative/absolute positioning, floats, or other CSS techniques.

The example provided demonstrates the ease with which tables achieve vertical centering:

<style type="text/css">
#outer { height: 200px; border: 1px solid black; width: 600px; background-color: #DDD; }
#inner { width: 150px;  border: 1px solid red; background: yellow; margin: auto; line-height: 100%;  }
</style>

This table-based approach ensures consistent vertical alignment across all browsers.

CSS as a Limited Tool for Vertical Centering

In contrast, the solution offered by CSS involves a complex hierarchy of nested divs with intricate positioning. Such techniques, while technically feasible, are impractical and excessive.

Conclusion

The debate between tables and CSS highlights the limitations of the latter in specific layout scenarios. While CSS remains a versatile tool, it is essential to recognize its limits. For vertical centering and side-by-side content, tables often provide a more effective and reliable solution, demonstrating the enduring importance of these traditional elements in web development.

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