CSS vs Javascript vs JQuery drop down navigation

[bronxpad]

For a user / seo perspective, what is the best way to code a drop down menu nav bar? Is it best to use css, javascript or a scripting library like jquery?

I am thinking about overall best practice that will not have a negative impact on serps.

I am also thinking about what will work best on all types of devices i.e. desk tops, lap tops, smart phones and tablets.

What are the Pro's & Cons of Using CSS for Drop Down Menus.

What are the Pro's & cons of using Javascript for drop down menus.

And the same question for jquery.

Thank you all in advance for your ideas.

[mad2k]

Hi Joel,

In my opinion CSS is "The Best". Simple, easy usage, easy changes, very good speed of page load ... etc...

As I red on many forums on the internet  JQuery and JS are are available for robots, so there are no contraindications to employ them.

But

CSS  - better code/text ratio (no long scripts in page code)

CSS - simple usage and changes (CSS3, HTML5)

CSS - faster loading (only simple text and html)

In my opinion, now when we have HTML5 and CSS3 there is no better way - it's innovative and simple solution,

Marek

[dawnieando]

Hi Joel,

I echo Marek's comments.  However, I'm a great fan of making 100% sure that the bots can access everything that I want them to so if I'm ever in doubt I go with css and html combination as much as possible.  We use Ajax and jQuery totally etc only on pages which we believe are 100% to be used primarily for user experience and engagement.  E.g. When they're doing searches for specific things and the page needs to be ultra fast and efficient.  However, we also try to ensure that we have crawlable pages which output the full content of a search wherever possible so that we can get the SEO benefit too.  It also helps for when people have javascript disabled (not many granted).

I've seen so many ecommerce sites with great content but it's often got some kind of blockage that means a button has to be pressed or a form submitted to see it and if I'm not mistaken bots can't access this easily.

Hope this helps.

[Zachary_Russell]

Hands down that CSS is the preferred way make dropdown menus. Google and on a lesser note, other search engines, have improved drastically with their ability to parse JavaScript / jQuery, and you may be able to get away with it, but it really should be avoided if possible. With the "new" CSS3 styles, you get almost any style you'd like with that.

[bronxpad]

Seems like the seo jury has spoken and CSS it is. Thank you all for your help on this matter. Thumbs up to you all.

[dawnieando]

Thumbs up to you too Joel and good luck with your project.

[WilliamCarr]

You can't go wrong with CSS. Endless styling possibilities. Also, I'd stay away from javascript because it's executed in order on the page. Meaning, if the JS doesn't load properly in the menu, the remaining JS below it wont load either.