Device Testing Tips
Squarespace is designed to be responsive, which means it will adjust the layout and location of content to fit on smaller screens. That auto adjustment is a great start, but sometimes we Squarespace designers need to step in to make things a little bit better. This article will help you learn some pro tips for testing your site on smaller screens, so you can make informed design improvements based on what you discover.
Utilizing Chrome DevTools:
Device Mode: This built-in tool lets you simulate various devices and screen sizes. Open DevTools (F12), navigate to the "Device Mode" tab, and choose your desired device or enter custom dimensions. Interact with your site to see how elements adapt.
Responsive Design Mode: Similar to Device Mode, this tool highlights potential layout issues across different breakpoints. Toggle it on in the Device Mode panel and test responsiveness thoroughly.
Emulated Mobile Devices: Connect your mobile device to your computer via USB and enable remote debugging in DevTools. This offers real-time mobile testing with touch interactions.
Expanding Your Toolkit:
BrowserStack: This cloud-based platform allows testing on real devices and browsers globally, providing valuable insights into cross-browser compatibility and regional differences.
Responsinator: This free online tool lets you preview your website on various devices without requiring software installation. It's particularly handy for quick checks.
CrossBrowser Testing: This platform offers automated testing on numerous devices and browsers, streamlining the process and saving time.
Additional Tips:
Prioritize Your Audience: Identify the devices your target audience primarily uses and prioritize testing on those. This helps optimize resources and time.
Landscape & Portrait Orientation: Test both orientations on mobile devices, as layouts and user behavior can differ significantly.
Don't Neglect Tablets: While often overlooked, tablet testing is essential for ensuring a seamless experience on larger mobile devices.
Accessibility Testing: Utilize built-in browser tools or dedicated accessibility testing software to ensure your website is inclusive for users with disabilities.
Real-World Testing: Encourage user feedback, especially from people using diverse devices, to gain valuable insights beyond simulated testing.
You can also consider using a service like Lambdatest to combine automated testing with real user testing, offering a comprehensive perspective on device compatibility and user experience.
Remember, device testing is an ongoing process. Regularly incorporate these tips into your workflow to deliver an exceptional user experience across all devices!