Pros and Cons of a website font-size adjuster

An on-page font size adjuster on a website is a feature that allows users to dynamically change the size of the text displayed on the web page. This feature is typically implemented using buttons or sliders that users can interact with to increase or decrease the font size according to their preferences.

This functionality is particularly important for improving web accessibility, as it accommodates users with varying levels of visual impairment or those who simply prefer larger or smaller text.

Pros of having an on-page font size adjuster

Accessibility

The most significant advantage is improved accessibility for users with visual impairments or reading difficulties. Having the ability to adjust font sizes can make your website more inclusive and user-friendly for a wider audience.

User Preferences

Different users have different preferences when it comes to font sizes. By offering an adjustable font size, you empower users to customize their browsing experience to match their comfort level.

User Experience

Providing options for users to adjust font sizes can enhance their overall experience on your website. Users are more likely to stay longer and engage more if they can comfortably read the content.

Responsive Design Enhancement

An on-page font size adjuster can be part of your responsive design strategy, allowing users to fine-tune the readability of your content across various devices.

Cons of having an on-page font size adjuster

Design challenges

Implementing an on-page font size adjuster requires careful design considerations. You need to ensure that changing font sizes doesn't break the overall layout or negatively impact the visual aesthetics of your website.

Usability issues

If not designed well, an on-page font size adjuster could confuse users or be difficult to locate. It's important to make the feature intuitive and user-friendly.

Testing complexity

Supporting different font sizes across various browsers and devices can introduce testing complexities, as you'll need to ensure that your website remains functional and visually appealing in all scenarios.

Performance impact

Dynamically adjusting font sizes could potentially affect website performance, especially if not optimized properly. This could result in slower load times or increased resource consumption.

Responsive design considerations

While an on-page font size adjuster can enhance responsive design, it might not be a one-size-fits-all solution. You still need to design your website responsively from the ground up to ensure it looks and functions well across devices.

Development effort

Implementing the font size adjuster requires development effort. It's important to balance the benefits it offers with the resources needed for implementation and maintenance.

Summary

An on-page font size adjuster can be a valuable addition to your website, particularly if you prioritize accessibility and user experience. However, it should be implemented thoughtfully to address design, usability, and performance considerations. It's also a good idea to gather user feedback and conduct usability testing to ensure that the feature meets users' needs effectively.