Gallery Layout Comparison
Compare the two gallery layout styles using the same image set
Masonry Layout
Pinterest-style layout with vertical columns. Images flow naturally down columns with varying heights, creating an organic, dynamic appearance.
CSS Columns
Vertical Flow
Variable Heights
Masonry Layout Example
Images flow in vertical columns
© 2025 Danny Vint - All Rights Reserved
Justified Row Layout
Traditional gallery layout with horizontal rows of equal height. Images are arranged left-to-right, creating a clean, orderly appearance.
Flickr Justified Gallery
Horizontal Flow
Equal Row Heights
Justified Layout Example
Images arranged in horizontal rows
© 2025 Danny Vint - All Rights Reserved
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Masonry Layout | Justified Layout |
|---|---|---|
| Layout Direction | Vertical columns | Horizontal rows |
| Height Variation | Variable heights within columns | Equal heights per row |
| Best For | Mixed aspect ratios, Pinterest-style browsing | Professional portfolios, uniform viewing |
| Visual Style | Organic, dynamic, flowing | Clean, orderly, structured |
| Implementation | Pure CSS (column-count) | JavaScript (Flickr Justified Gallery) |
| Performance | Excellent (CSS-only) | Good (requires JS calculation) |
| Image Aspect Ratios | Fully preserved | Adjusted to fit row height |
| Lightgallery Support | ✓ Full support | ✓ Full support |
| Dark Mode | ✓ Full support | ✓ Full support |
Which Layout Should You Choose?
Choose Masonry Layout When:
- You want a more casual, Pinterest-inspired browsing experience
- Your images have widely varying aspect ratios
- You prefer a dynamic, flowing appearance
- Performance is a priority (CSS-only solution)
- You want images to maintain their exact proportions
Choose Justified Layout When:
- You want a professional, gallery-style presentation
- You prefer organized rows with visual consistency
- Your images have similar aspect ratios
- You want more predictable spacing and alignment
- You're building a portfolio that needs a polished look