Kebab Vs Hamburger Menu: A Comparison You Won’T Want To Miss

When it comes to website navigation, two icons have emerged as the most popular choices: the kebab menu and the hamburger menu. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages, so choosing the right one for your website can be a daunting task. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the great debate of kebab vs hamburger menu, examining their strengths, weaknesses, and best use cases.

What is a Kebab Menu?

A kebab menu, also known as a vertical ellipsis menu, consists of three horizontal lines stacked vertically. When clicked, it expands to reveal a list of navigation options. It’s often used in mobile and responsive design due to its compact size.

What is a Hamburger Menu?

A hamburger menu, also known as a three-line menu, resembles the shape of a hamburger. It consists of three horizontal lines stacked one on top of the other. When clicked, it slides out from the side of the screen, revealing a list of navigation options. It’s commonly used in desktop and mobile design.

Advantages of Kebab Menu

• Compact: The kebab menu takes up minimal space on the screen, making it ideal for mobile and responsive design.
• Subtle: Its discreet design allows it to blend seamlessly into the website’s layout without distracting users.
• Universal: The kebab menu is recognized globally, making it easy for users to understand and interact with.

Disadvantages of Kebab Menu

• Limited Visibility: The kebab menu’s small size can make it difficult for users to notice, especially on larger screens.
• Can Be Hidden: The kebab menu can be easily hidden behind other content, making it less accessible to users.
• Less Intuitive: Some users may not immediately recognize the kebab menu as a navigation icon, leading to confusion.

Advantages of Hamburger Menu

• Prominent: The hamburger menu’s larger size makes it highly visible and easy to locate on the screen.
• Familiar: It’s a well-known navigation icon that users are familiar with, making it easy to use.
• Flexible: The hamburger menu can be placed in different locations on the screen, providing more flexibility in design.

Disadvantages of Hamburger Menu

• Takes Up Space: The hamburger menu can occupy a significant amount of screen space, especially on mobile devices.
• Can Obstruct Content: When the hamburger menu is open, it can cover up important content on the page.
• Less Accessible: Users with disabilities may find it difficult to access the hamburger menu if it’s placed in an awkward location.

Best Use Cases for Kebab Menu

• Mobile websites and apps where screen space is limited.
• Websites with a minimalist design that emphasizes simplicity.
• Websites targeting a global audience.

Best Use Cases for Hamburger Menu

• Desktop websites with plenty of screen space.
• Websites with a large number of navigation options.
• Websites targeting users who are familiar with the hamburger menu icon.

Recommendations:

The choice between a kebab menu and a hamburger menu ultimately depends on the specific needs and design goals of your website. By carefully considering the advantages and disadvantages outlined above, you can select the navigation icon that best meets the needs of your users and enhances the overall user experience.

Answers to Your Questions

1. Which menu is better for mobile devices?

For mobile devices, the kebab menu is generally preferred due to its compact size and ability to hide behind other content.

2. Which menu is more accessible?

Both menus can be accessible, but the hamburger menu may be more difficult to locate for users with disabilities if it’s placed in an awkward location.

3. Can I use both menus on my website?

Yes, you can use both menus on your website, but it’s important to consider the overall design and user experience. Avoid using both menus in close proximity, as this can create confusion.

4. Which menu is more popular?

The hamburger menu has been more popular historically, but the kebab menu is gaining in popularity due to its compact size and universal recognition.

5. How do I choose the right menu for my website?

Consider the screen size, number of navigation options, target audience, and overall design goals of your website to make an informed decision.