Less Htmx Is More
a year ago
- #web-development
- #HTML
- #htmx
- The author reflects on two years of using htmx for web services, noting improved user experience and easier maintenance compared to previous projects.
- Emphasizes the importance of using plain HTML wherever possible with htmx, advocating for a mindset shift away from over-reliance on JavaScript.
- Recommends using htmx for specific interactive elements like live updates (e.g., sports scores) while relying on standard HTML links and forms for navigation.
- Criticizes the use of `hx-boost` for all page navigations, arguing it introduces unnecessary complexity and potential issues similar to single-page applications (SPAs).
- Highlights the benefits of regular HTML links, including better performance, reliability, and compatibility with browser features like caching and navigation.
- Discusses the use of ETags and cache control headers to optimize static resource loading, reducing server requests and improving load times.
- Points out that modern browsers optimize page transitions for regular links automatically, offering a smoother experience without JavaScript.
- Acknowledges that while `hx-boost` can be useful for specific cases (e.g., persistent music players), it should not replace standard HTML navigation for most websites.
- Concludes that HTML and HTTP provide robust features for most web development needs, advocating for simplicity and long-term maintainability over SPA-like functionality.