Tags Synced
Tags Synced
Last Edited Time
Jul 2, 2025 04:09 PM
Do not index
Do not index
Platform
Web Design
Category
Design Theory
Topic
Typography
AI summary
Optimal web text line length is 50-75 characters for better readability; too long or too short lines hinder tracking and concentration. Ensure responsive design for all devices and check template limitations for typography control. Test line lengths on real devices for effectiveness.
Last edited by
Related Synced
Related Synced
The Right Line Length for Better Web Readability
Get your text line length spot on to make your website easier to read and more comfortable for visitors.
TL;DR: Key Points
- Best line length for web text is 50-75 characters
- Proper line length makes reading easier and more comfortable
- Line length needs to work across all devices
- Some website builders limit how much you can customise this
- Balance good looks with readability
Why Line Length Matters for Reading
Line length is simply how many characters fit on one line before the text wraps to the next line. Get this wrong and you'll make your website harder to read.
When lines are too long, people struggle to track from the end of one line back to the start of the next. Their eyes get lost, and they end up re-reading the same line or skipping lines altogether.
Too short? The text feels choppy and fragmented. Readers have to jump to new lines constantly, which breaks their concentration.
Getting Line Length Right
The Sweet Spot
Aim for 50-75 characters per line, including spaces. This gives readers a comfortable rhythm without overwhelming them.
But don't just count characters blindly. Consider your font choice, size, and overall design. A chunky sans-serif font might need fewer characters per line than a slim serif font.
Making It Work on All Devices
Your carefully planned line length means nothing if it falls apart on mobile phones or tablets.
Test your line lengths across different screen sizes. What looks perfect on your laptop might create awkward single-word lines on a phone, or endless marathon lines on a large monitor.
Most modern website builders handle this automatically through responsive design, but it's worth checking manually.
Common Problems You'll Face
Template Restrictions
Many website templates come with fixed line lengths that you can't easily change. This can be frustrating if the default setting creates lines that are too long or short for comfortable reading.
Look for templates that give you more control over typography, or be prepared to work within the constraints.
Platform Limitations
Not all website builders are equal. Some give you detailed control over line spacing, margins, and column widths. Others lock you into their preset options.
If typography control matters to you, research what each platform offers before committing.
Pixelhaze Tip: Always check your line lengths on real devices, not just by resizing your browser window. Grab your phone, tablet, and laptop and see how the text actually reads in practice.
FAQs
Can I change line length on any website builder?
Most builders let you adjust it somehow, but the methods vary. Some let you set exact character counts, others work through column widths or font sizes.
How do I know if my line length is working?
Start with 50-75 characters, then test it. Ask friends to read a paragraph on different devices. If they're comfortable and not losing their place, you're on the right track.
Does line length affect mobile users differently?
Yes, mobile screens are narrower, so lines that work on desktop might be too long for phones. Good responsive design handles this automatically.
Quick Definitions
Line Length: How many characters fit on one line of text before wrapping to the next line.
Responsive Design: Making sure your website adapts to different screen sizes, including adjusting line lengths appropriately.
Typography: The art and science of arranging text, including choices about fonts, sizes, spacing, and line management.
Wrapping Up
Getting line length right isn't just about following rules - it's about making your content genuinely easier to read. When people can read your text comfortably, they're more likely to stay on your site, understand your message, and take action.
Start with the 50-75 character guideline, but test it with real people on real devices. Your content deserves to be read easily.