What are the differences between using columns and grids in Webflow for arranging content in two columns?
TL;DR
- Use Columns for quick, simple two-column layouts with minimal customization.
- Use CSS Grid for complex, responsive layouts requiring precise control over spacing, alignment, and behavior at different breakpoints.
When arranging content in two columns in Webflow, you can use either Columns elements or CSS Grid, but they behave differently and offer different levels of control.
1. Columns Element Basics
- Webflow's Columns are pre-built structures using flexbox under the hood.
- Easy to drag-and-drop into the canvas and choose from 2, 3, 4, or more columns by default.
- Ideal for simple layouts (e.g., text + image) when you want consistent column widths.
2. Grid Layout Basics
- CSS Grid provides full control over the number of rows and columns and their behavior (e.g., fixed, auto, or fractional sizing).
- Better suited for complex, responsive layouts or when you want granular control over spacing, alignment, and content positioning.
- You can create two columns and adjust their width precisely (e.g., 1fr 2fr or 50% 50%).
3. Responsiveness
- Columns auto-stack vertically on smaller viewports, but the customization is limited to toggling the stacking behavior.
- Grid offers precise control of how content reflows at different breakpoints; you can redefine your layout per breakpoint without relying on Webflow’s default behavior.
4. Customization & Flexibility
- Columns have limited customization—equal or fixed-width columns and basic padding/gap settings.
- Grid allows exact control over spacing (gap), position (cell placement), and alignment—great for aligning content both horizontally and vertically.
5. Performance & Best Practices
- Columns are easy for beginners but considered less flexible in modern design workflows.
- Grid is preferred in most professional projects due to its adaptability and better integration with modern CSS practices.
Summary
Use Columns when you need a quick and simple layout with minimal customization. Choose Grid when you need more control over structure, responsiveness, and alignment across breakpoints. For scalability and modern design standards, CSS Grid is generally recommended over Columns.