`float:left`, `display:inline`, `display:inline-block`, or `display:table-cell`? Which CSS Display Property is Best for Multi-Column Layouts?

float:left;, display:inline;, display:inline-block;, or display:table-cell;?

When designing a multi-column layout, there are several CSS display properties that can be employed. Let's explore each of the commonly used ones:

float:left;

float:left; allows elements to flow next to each other horizontally, similar to floating two images side by side. However, it requires additional "clear:both;" statements to prevent parent elements from collapsing.

display:inline;

display:inline; treats elements as inline elements, flowing along a single line of text. This can result in unwanted whitespace between elements.

display:inline-block;

display:inline-block; combines properties of inline and block elements, allowing elements to flow next to each other horizontally while maintaining their block-level behavior. However, whitespace can still be an issue.

display:table-cell;

display:table-cell; behaves similarly to float:left;, but it aligns elements vertically, making it ideal for tables or other scenarios where vertical alignment is desired.

Professional Preference and Browser Behavior

Regarding preference, there is no absolute consensus among web designers. Choice often depends on the specific project and desired results.

When it comes to browser behavior, float:left; and display:inline-block; are universally supported. display:inline; and display:table-cell; may behave differently in older browsers like IE6 and IE7.

Additional Techniques

Beyond the discussed options, consider CSS Columns and CSS FlexBox:

• CSS Columns: Offers a dedicated feature for multi-column layouts, but support is limited to certain browsers.
• CSS FlexBox: A powerful and flexible tool for sophisticated layouts, but its development is ongoing.

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