How To Choose: Kebab Vs Hamburger Menu – Tips And Tricks

The world of website design is constantly evolving, and with it, the way we navigate through websites. Two of the most popular navigation styles are the kebab menu and the hamburger menu. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between the two depends on the specific needs of the website. In this blog post, we will delve into the depths of kebab vs hamburger menu, comparing their features, usability, and effectiveness.

What is a Kebab Menu?

A kebab menu is a vertical navigation menu that appears on the side of a webpage. It typically consists of a series of icons or text links arranged vertically, one on top of the other. Kebab menus are often used on websites with limited horizontal space, such as mobile devices or narrow website layouts.

What is a Hamburger Menu?

A hamburger menu is a horizontal navigation menu that appears as three horizontal lines stacked on top of each other. When the user clicks or taps on the lines, the menu expands to reveal a list of navigation options. Hamburger menus are commonly used on websites with ample horizontal space, such as desktop computers or wide website layouts.

Key Differences

1. Visibility

Kebab menus are always visible on the webpage, while hamburger menus are hidden until the user clicks or taps on them.

2. Space Requirements

Kebab menus require less horizontal space than hamburger menus, making them ideal for websites with limited screen real estate.

3. Usability on Mobile Devices

Kebab menus are generally easier to use on mobile devices, as they are always visible and can be accessed with a single tap. Hamburger menus, on the other hand, require the user to click or tap on the lines to expand the menu, which can be more difficult on smaller screens.

Advantages of Kebab Menus

• Always visible: Users can easily find the menu without having to search for it.
• Compact: Kebab menus take up less space on the webpage, leaving more room for content.
• Easy to use on mobile devices: Kebab menus are well-suited for mobile devices, as they can be accessed with a single tap.

Advantages of Hamburger Menus

• Clean and minimalist: Hamburger menus can create a clean and modern look for a website.
• Flexible: Hamburger menus can be customized to include a wide range of navigation options.
• Effective on desktop computers: Hamburger menus are well-suited for desktop computers, as they provide ample space for navigation options.

Usability Considerations

1. Discoverability

Kebab menus are more discoverable than hamburger menus, as they are always visible on the webpage. This makes it easier for users to find the navigation options they are looking for.

2. Accessibility

Kebab menus are generally more accessible than hamburger menus, especially for users with disabilities or limited motor skills. This is because kebab menus can be accessed with a single tap or click, while hamburger menus require the user to perform a more complex gesture to expand the menu.

Effectiveness

The effectiveness of a kebab menu or hamburger menu depends on the specific needs of the website. In general, kebab menus are more effective for websites with limited horizontal space, while hamburger menus are more effective for websites with ample horizontal space.

When to Use a Kebab Menu

• Websites with limited horizontal space, such as mobile devices or narrow website layouts.
• Websites with a simple navigation structure.
• Websites that prioritize discoverability and accessibility.

When to Use a Hamburger Menu

• Websites with ample horizontal space, such as desktop computers or wide website layouts.
• Websites with a complex navigation structure.
• Websites that prioritize a clean and minimalist design.

The Future of Navigation Menus

As the web continues to evolve, so too will the way we navigate through websites. While kebab menus and hamburger menus have been the dominant navigation styles for many years, new and innovative navigation techniques are emerging. These techniques include:

• Mega menus: Mega menus are large, drop-down menus that provide users with a wide range of navigation options. They are often used on websites with complex navigation structures.
• Sidebar menus: Sidebar menus are vertical navigation menus that appear on the side of a webpage, similar to kebab menus. However, sidebar menus are typically more customizable and can include a wider range of content, such as images and videos.
• Radial menus: Radial menus are circular navigation menus that appear when the user clicks or taps on a central icon. They are often used on mobile devices, as they provide a convenient way to access a range of navigation options without taking up too much screen space.

Wrap-Up: The Ultimate Verdict

The kebab menu and the hamburger menu are both viable navigation styles with their own unique advantages and disadvantages. The choice between the two depends on the specific needs of the website. If you need a navigation menu that is always visible, compact, and easy to use on mobile devices, then a kebab menu is a good choice. If you need a navigation menu that is clean, flexible, and effective on desktop computers, then a hamburger menu is a good choice.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Which navigation menu is better, kebab or hamburger?
A: The choice between a kebab menu and a hamburger menu depends on the specific needs of the website. Kebab menus are more discoverable, accessible, and well-suited for mobile devices, while hamburger menus are more flexible, customizable, and well-suited for desktop computers.

Q: How do I choose the right navigation menu for my website?
A: Consider the following factors when choosing a navigation menu: the amount of horizontal space available, the complexity of the navigation structure, the target audience, and the overall design aesthetic of the website.

Q: Are there any alternatives to kebab and hamburger menus?
A: Yes, there are several alternative navigation techniques, including mega menus, sidebar menus, and radial menus. These techniques can provide a more flexible and customizable navigation experience.