Why do we use Tailwind CSS and less Bootstrap?

Tailwind CSS vs Bootstrap

Embracing Customization for Unique Web Design

In the ever-evolving landscape of web development, Bootstrap has long been the go-to framework for creating responsive, mobile-first websites. Its 12-column grid system has simplified the design process, but its widespread adoption has inadvertently led to a homogeneity in website aesthetics. As developers and designers strive for more distinctive and tailored web experiences, Tailwind CSS emerges as an innovative alternative, promising a higher degree of customization and originality.

The Bootstrap Dilemma

Bootstrap's convenience and efficiency have cemented its popularity among front-end developers. Its pre-styled components and responsive design capabilities enable rapid website deployment. However, this ease of use often comes at the cost of uniqueness, with many Bootstrap-based websites bearing a striking resemblance to one another. This phenomenon has sparked a discussion within the web development community about the need for more diverse design solutions.

Tailwind CSS for Advanced Customization

Tailwind CSS distinguishes itself by offering a utility-first approach to styling. This means that instead of predefined components, Tailwind provides low-level utility classes that you can use to build custom designs directly in your HTML. This granular control allows for a design that is truly bespoke, reflecting the unique brand and vision of each project.

Tailwind's utility-first philosophy encourages developers to think about design in a more deliberate way, creating a cohesive look that aligns with specific design requirements. It's an excellent choice for projects that demand a distinctive visual identity, as it empowers developers to step away from the cookie-cutter layouts that have become all too common.

Installing and Using Tailwind CSS

Getting started with Tailwind CSS is straightforward. Developers can add it to their projects using npm with the command npm install tailwindcss, or experiment with it using Tailwind's CLI tool for processing code. Tailwind also offers a CDN for quick prototyping, but for a full-featured setup with customization capabilities, local installation is recommended.

Optimizing Tailwind CSS for Production

While Tailwind CSS's initial file size may seem hefty, its integration with PurgeCSS—a tool that removes unused CSS, dramatically reduces the final build size. By stripping out styles that aren't used in your project, the resulting CSS file can be as small as 10kb when compressed. This makes Tailwind an incredibly lightweight and efficient framework for production environments.

Tailwind CSS in Real-World Applications

At Lucky Media, we have experienced firsthand the benefits of integrating Tailwind CSS into our workflow. Whether we're crafting websites with Statamic or more intricate web applications using Laravel, Tailwind has significantly boosted our productivity. Our designers and developers collaborate seamlessly, with Tailwind's utility classes perfectly complementing the design specifications laid out in Figma.

Conclusion

While Bootstrap continues to serve as a reliable tool for many developers, the emergence of Tailwind CSS has introduced a much-needed option for those seeking to break free from design constraints. It caters to the modern web's demand for tailor-made, original websites and empowers developers to create without limits.

This article is part of the "Which technologies do we use and why?" series where we explain the technologies that we use daily.

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