Why Media Query Order Matters in CSS: Explained

Introduction

When it comes to designing responsive websites, media queries are a must-have tool in any web developer's arsenal. Media queries allow us to adjust our website's layout and design based on the user's device screen size. However, the order of these media queries in our CSS can have a significant impact on the design and layout of our website. In this article, we will explain why media query order matters in CSS.

What are Media Queries?

Media queries are a CSS technique that allows us to apply different styles based on the user's device screen size. For example, we can adjust the font size, layout, and images based on the user's device. Media queries are defined using the @media rule and can be used in conjunction with other CSS selectors.

Why Media Query Order Matters

The order of media queries in our CSS can have a significant impact on our website's design and layout. When multiple media queries apply to the same element, the order in which they are written in the CSS file matters. The browser reads CSS from top to bottom, and the last media query that matches the user's device screen size will be applied.

For example, let's say we have two media queries:

@media (min-width: 768px) {
  /* Styles for devices with a screen width of 768px or larger */
}

@media (min-width: 1024px) {
  /* Styles for devices with a screen width of 1024px or larger */
}

If these media queries are written in this order, the styles for devices with a screen width of 1024px or larger will always be applied, even if the device screen size is 768px. This is because the browser reads the CSS from top to bottom and the last media query that matches the user's device screen size will be applied.

To avoid this issue, it is best practice to write media queries in descending order, starting with the largest screen size. This ensures that the correct styles are applied to the correct screen sizes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, media query order matters in CSS. The order in which media queries are written can have a significant impact on our website's design and layout. By writing media queries in descending order, starting with the largest screen size, we can ensure that the correct styles are applied to the correct screen sizes.