The Responsive Web Design Bookmarklet

Responsive Web Design — or RWD — has a number of benefits:

When used well, your site can be viewed on any device no matter what the screen resolution or orientation.
It’s an inexpensive solution compared to multiple web sites or native mobile apps.
It’s easy and fun. All the cool kids are using it.

While RWD techniques are well known, there are relatively few tools to help developers. Many are similar to Matt Kersley’s Responsive Web Design Testing Tool which show a single page in a variety of sized iframes. It’s useful, but limited to live websites. You can’t (easily) point it at a web server running on your own PC. Ultimately, most of us resize our browsers an approximate mobile/tablet resolution. It works, but you’ll spend more time resizing windows than writing code. Fortunately, French web developer Victor Coulon decided to address the issue with his free RWD Bookmarklet. Visit the page and drag the link to your browser’s bookmarks bar. To test it, visit any responsive website. This one will do

. Now hit the RWD Bookmarklet link — a toolbar will load where you can select typical tablet and mobile resolutions:

Click the icon which looks like a calculator and you’ll see a keyboard view. It’s a unique feature and one designers rarely consider when they’re creating forms in a responsive design.

While the views are obviously Apple-centric they apply to many mobile and tablet devices. The bookmarklet also works on sites developed on local or intranet servers (assuming you have web access to load it). The RWD bookmarklet is a great tool. It may not be technically sophisticated or revolutionary, but it’s incredibly useful. Thanks Victor!

Frequently Asked Questions about Responsive Web Design Tools

What are the key features to look for in a responsive web design tool?

When choosing a responsive web design tool, consider the following features: a user-friendly interface, real-time editing capabilities, a wide range of templates, compatibility with different browsers and devices, and the ability to export code. Some tools also offer additional features like collaboration capabilities, SEO optimization, and integration with other design tools.

How can I test the responsiveness of my website design?

You can use online tools like Responsive Design Checker, Responsive Test Tool, or BrowserStack to test the responsiveness of your website. These tools allow you to view your website on different screen sizes and devices, helping you ensure that your design is truly responsive.

Can I use developer tools to create a responsive design?

Yes, developer tools like those available in Chrome or Firefox can be used to create a responsive design. These tools allow you to inspect and modify your website’s code, making it easier to identify and fix issues with your design.

How can I open the developer tools using JavaScript?

While it’s not possible to open developer tools directly using JavaScript due to security reasons, you can use JavaScript to debug and test your code. You can use console.log() to print messages to the console, or use the debugger statement to pause execution and inspect your code.

What is the difference between responsive and adaptive design?

Responsive design is a design approach where a website’s layout adjusts to the screen size and orientation of the device it’s being viewed on. Adaptive design, on the other hand, uses static layouts that are designed for specific screen sizes. While both approaches aim to provide an optimal viewing experience across different devices, responsive design is generally considered more flexible and user-friendly.

How can I make my website design more mobile-friendly?

To make your website more mobile-friendly, ensure that your design is responsive, use readable text sizes, make your buttons and links large enough to be easily tapped, and avoid using Flash. You should also optimize your images and content for faster loading times, and consider implementing features like a mobile menu for easier navigation.

Can I use CSS media queries to create a responsive design?

Yes, CSS media queries are a key component of responsive design. They allow you to apply different styles depending on the characteristics of the device the website is being viewed on, such as its width, height, orientation, and resolution.

What are some common challenges in responsive web design?

Some common challenges in responsive web design include handling images and videos, maintaining performance on different devices, managing navigation on smaller screens, and ensuring compatibility with older browsers. However, these challenges can be overcome with careful planning and testing.

How can I learn more about responsive web design?

There are many resources available online to learn about responsive web design, including tutorials, articles, and online courses. Websites like SitePoint, StackOverflow, and GitHub offer a wealth of information on the topic.

What are some popular responsive web design tools?

Some popular responsive web design tools include Adobe XD, Sketch, Figma, InVision Studio, and Marvel. These tools offer a range of features to help you create and test your responsive designs.