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Auto-fit Vs Auto-fill

About 764 wordsAbout 3 min

2023-08-05

Auto-fit Vs Auto-fill

When we use the CSS Grid grid layout, we often use the minmax() function. When using the minmax() function, it is very important to decide whether to use the auto-fit or auto-fill keyword. If used improperly, it may lead to unexpected consequences.

When using the minmax() function:

  • auto-fit: The grid item will be expanded to fill the available space.

  • auto-fill: The available space will be reserved without changing the width of the grid item.

auto fit fill

Nevertheless, using auto-fit can cause grid items to be too wide, especially if they are smaller than expected. See the following example.

.wrapper {
display: grid;
grid-template-columns: repeat(auto-fit, minmax(250px, 1fr));
grid-gap: 1rem;
}

If there is only one grid item and auto-fit is used, the item will expand to fill the container width.

Four sub-items:

A child:


In most cases, such behavior is not desired. So in my opinion, it is better to use auto-fill.

Four sub-items:

A child:

Example

.wrapper {
 --sizing: auto-fit;
 display: grid;
 grid-template-columns: repeat(var(--sizing), minmax(100px, 1fr));
 grid-gap: 1rem;
}

auto-fit-fill

Adjust the container size to see the effect