Pixels or REMs in CSS - what to choose?

The topic of CSS units, specifically px and rem, is crucial for responsive web design. The article highlights the differences between these two units. Px, or pixel, is a fixed unit, meaning it does not change based on browser or system settings. Conversely, rem, or root em, is based on the font size defined in the main document element. This makes rem more flexible and adjusts automatically to smaller devices, making it a better choice for mobile projects.

The author emphasizes the importance of using rem as a standard unit for font sizes, which enhances accessibility and simplifies scaling across various devices. With px, there may be readability issues on smaller screens because the font size does not change automatically. For web designers, ensuring that their work is responsive is essential, which is why the ability to work with these units is crucial.

Additionally, the article discusses how to set units in CSS and how to use CSS variable functions to further ease the work with different units. The author also points out the variances in unit interpretation by different browsers, which is another factor to keep in mind when designing. Using rem can not only improve project flexibility but also aid in achieving better accessibility for individuals with vision impairments.

In summary, the choice between px and rem is not straightforward. However, with a good understanding of the principles and differences, designers can make more informed decisions. I encourage everyone to think about this aspect in their next project to create more user-friendly and accessible websites.

The article concludes with practical tips that may be helpful for developers. Those interested in this topic can find plenty of examples and applications of the units discussed in the article, which can serve as an excellent starting point for reflections on the quality of CSS projects.