CSS Grid and Flexbox are two powerful layout systems in modern CSS. Understanding when to use each one is a key skill for any front-end developer.
Flexbox — One Dimension
Flexbox is designed for one-dimensional layouts — either a row or a column. It's perfect for navigation bars, card rows, centering content, and distributing space along a single axis.
Use Flexbox when you have a group of items that need to be aligned or distributed along a single direction.
CSS Grid — Two Dimensions
Grid is designed for two-dimensional layouts — rows AND columns simultaneously. It's perfect for overall page layouts, image galleries, and complex UI patterns.
Use Grid when you need to control both rows and columns, or when your layout is based on a defined grid structure.
Best Practice
Use Grid for the macro layout (overall page structure) and Flexbox for the micro layout (components within that structure). They work beautifully together.