Which "href" value should I use for JavaScript links, "#" or "javascript:void(0)"?

Which "href" value should I use for JavaScript links, "#" or "javascript:void(0)"?

As a developer, you may have come across situations where you need to create JavaScript links that trigger certain actions on your web page. The question then arises: which "href" value should I use - "#" or "javascript:void(0)"?

Let's dive into the details and explore the pros and cons of each option to help you make an informed decision.

The "#" Option

The first option, using "#" as the "href" value, is a popular choice among developers. It is concise and straightforward, requiring minimal code. When the link is clicked, it appends the "#" character to the URL, resulting in a minimal impact on the page load speed.

Here's an example of how you can implement this option:

<a href="#" onclick="myJsFunc();">Run JavaScript Code</a>

In the above code snippet, the onclick attribute triggers the JavaScript function myJsFunc() when the link is clicked.

Benefits of using "#"

1. Simplicity: The "#" option is simple to implement and understand, making it a convenient choice for developers.

2. Minimal Page Load Impact: As mentioned earlier, using "#" as the "href" value has little impact on page load speed, making it a favorable choice when performance is a concern.

Potential Issues with "#"

1. Scroll Position Change: When "#" is used as the "href" value, clicking on the link can cause the page to scroll back to the top. This behavior may not be desirable if your link is located further down the page.

2. Accessibility: "#" links may not be accessible to all users, especially those relying on assistive technologies. These users may experience difficulties in understanding the purpose of the link or identifying its significance.

The "javascript:void(0)" Option

The alternative option is to use "javascript:void(0)" as the "href" value. This approach explicitly specifies that the link is intended to execute JavaScript code.

Here's an example of how you can implement this option:

<a href="javascript:void(0)" onclick="myJsFunc();">Run JavaScript Code</a>

Similar to the "#" option, the onclick attribute triggers the JavaScript function myJsFunc() when the link is clicked.

Benefits of using "javascript:void(0)"

1. Semantic Clarity: By using "javascript:void(0)" as the "href" value, you clearly indicate that the link is meant to execute JavaScript code, leaving no room for ambiguity.

2. Accessibility Enhancement: This option may provide better accessibility as compared to "#" links. Assistive technologies can better understand the purpose and significance of the link.

Issues with "javascript:void(0)"

1. Extra Characters in URL: When "javascript:void(0)" is used, it appends "void(0)" to the URL when the link is clicked. Although this doesn't affect the functionality, it adds unnecessary characters to the address bar.

2. Page Load Performance: This option may have a slightly higher impact on page load speed compared to the "#" option. However, the difference is usually negligible, unless you have a large number of JavaScript links on your page.

The Verdict

Choosing between "#" and "javascript:void(0)" depends on various factors, including your specific use case and priorities. Here's a quick summary to help you make a decision:

• Use "#" if simplicity and minimal page load impact are your primary concerns while sacrificing some accessibility and potential scroll position change issues. This option is suitable for most scenarios with basic JavaScript functionality.

• Use "javascript:void(0)" if you want to enhance the semantic clarity and accessibility of your links, without significant performance trade-offs. This option is especially beneficial if your website caters to users relying on assistive technologies.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific requirements and preferences.

If you're still unsure, try considering the impact on accessibility and the user experience. Conduct user testing or consult with your team to ensure your decision aligns with your overall project goals.

Remember, creating a website or a web application that is user-friendly and accessible to all is always a great initiative.

So, go ahead and choose the option that suits your needs and happy coding! 😄✨

Let us know your preferred choice and why in the comments below. Happy to hear your insights! 💬👇