Equal Height Columns with CSS

Creating equal height columns is a common requirement in web design, especially when working with responsive layouts. In this tutorial, we will explore different methods to achieve equal height columns using CSS.

Understanding the Problem

When you have two or more columns with different content, it can be challenging to make them the same height. This issue arises because each column’s height is determined by its content, and if one column has more content than the others, it will be taller.

Method 1: Using Flexbox

Flexbox is a modern CSS layout system that makes it easy to create equal height columns. To use flexbox, you need to set display: flex on the parent container and flex: 1 on each child element.

.parent {
  display: -ms-flex;
  display: -webkit-flex;
  display: flex;
}

.parent > div {
  flex: 1;
}

This will make all child elements the same height, regardless of their content.

Method 2: Using CSS Tables

Another way to achieve equal height columns is by using CSS tables. You can set display: table on the parent container and display: table-cell on each child element.

.parent {
  display: table;
}

.parent > div {
  display: table-cell;
  width: 50%;
}

This method is compatible with older browsers, but it may not be as flexible as flexbox.

Method 3: Using Inline-Block with Negative Margin Hack

You can also use inline-block elements with a negative margin hack to achieve equal height columns. This method involves setting display: inline-block on each child element and using a negative margin to pull the elements up.

.parent {
  position: relative;
  width: 100%;
  white-space: nowrap;
  overflow: hidden;
}

.parent > div {
  display: inline-block;
  width: 50%;
  white-space: normal;
  vertical-align: top;
}

.parent > div > div {
  padding-bottom: 32768px;
  margin-bottom: -32768px;
}

This method can be tricky to implement, and it may cause issues with positioning elements relative to the bottom of the columns.

Method 4: Using Absolute Positioning

You can also use absolute positioning to achieve equal height columns. This involves setting position: absolute on each child element and using top, bottom, left, and right properties to position them.

.parent {
  position: relative;
}

.child-left {
  background: green;
  height: 100%;
  width: 50%;
  position: absolute;
  left: 0;
  top: 0;
}

.child-right {
  background: blue;
  height: 100%;
  width: 50%;
  position: absolute;
  right: 0;
  top: 0;
}

This method requires you to set the height property on the parent container, which may not be desirable in all situations.

Conclusion

Achieving equal height columns can be challenging, but there are several methods available. Flexbox is a modern and flexible solution that works well with responsive layouts. CSS tables provide a more traditional approach, while inline-block with negative margin hack and absolute positioning offer alternative solutions. Choose the method that best fits your needs and requirements.

Tips and Best Practices

• Use flexbox for modern and responsive layouts.
• Use CSS tables for older browsers or when you need a more traditional approach.
• Avoid using inline-block with negative margin hack unless necessary, as it can cause issues with positioning elements relative to the bottom of the columns.
• Always test your layout in different browsers and devices to ensure compatibility and responsiveness.