What You Need to Know About the Hamburger Icon

When you think of a hamburger, you might imagine a juicy patty nestled between two buns, but in recent years, the term has taken on a new meaning in web design. The hamburger icon has become a ubiquitous symbol for mobile navigation, but it’s not without controversy. Some argue that its design is unclear and unintuitive. Others defend it as a space-saving solution that simplifies user interfaces. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the world of hamburger icons, discussing their benefits, best practices, and how to use them effectively.

Benefits of Using Hamburger Icons

The primary benefit of using a hamburger icon is that it saves space on mobile screens, which are typically much smaller than desktop displays. Hamburger icons allow designers to tuck away navigation menus and other options behind a single button, reducing clutter and making the interface cleaner. Additionally, hamburger icons are relatively easy to implement, and users are familiar with them from other apps and websites, making them a safe choice for designers.

Best Practices for Using Hamburger Icons

While it’s true that the hamburger icon is straightforward and familiar, it’s not without its pitfalls. If not used correctly, it can confuse users and make navigation more challenging. To avoid these issues, follow these best practices for using hamburger icons:

1. Label the icon: While some designers opt for a minimalist approach and leave the hamburger icon unlabeled, this can be confusing for users. Always include a label to ensure clarity.

2. Keep the icon visible: While the goal of a hamburger icon is to save space, it’s crucial to keep the icon visible at all times. Hiding the icon creates additional work for users and can hinder their ability to navigate the site.

3. Don’t rely solely on the icon: As mentioned, users may not understand the meaning of the hamburger icon, so it’s essential to have alternative navigation options in place, such as a footer menu or breadcrumb navigation.

4. Test, test, test: Lastly, it’s vital to test your hamburger icon design with users to ensure that it’s clear and intuitive.

How to Use Hamburger Icons Effectively

Now that you know the benefits and best practices of using hamburger icons let’s discuss how to use them effectively. First, consider whether a hamburger icon is the best choice. While they are popular, they may not always be the most appropriate option. For example, if you have few navigation options or your website is simple, a hamburger icon might not be necessary.

If you do choose to use a hamburger icon, make sure it’s easy to find. Typically, designers place the icon in the upper left or right-hand corner of the screen, where users are most likely to look. The icon should always be visible, and the label should be clear and concise. Once users click on the icon, make sure the menu is easy to navigate and includes all necessary options.

In conclusion, hamburger icons are a staple of modern web design. While they’re not perfect, they do offer a space-saving solution that simplifies mobile interfaces. By following best practices and testing your design, you can use a hamburger icon effectively and provide a clear, user-friendly interface. However, remember that there are times when a hamburger icon may not be the best choice, so always consider your website or app’s unique needs before making a decision.