XHTML vs HTML: What are the Differences?
As a content writer or web developer, it’s crucial to understand the differences between XHTML and HTML. Both markup languages are used for creating web pages, but they have some significant differences that can affect the design, functionality, and accessibility of a website. In this article, we will explore the differences between XHTML vs HTML and help you decide which markup language is best for your website
HTML (Hypertext Markup Language) is a markup language that has been used for creating web pages since the beginning of the internet. It’s the standard markup language for web pages and is supported by all major browsers. XHTML (Extensible Hypertext Markup Language) is a reformulation of HTML using XML syntax. XHTML is more strict than HTML, and it enforces specific rules that HTML doesn’t.
What is HTML?
HTML is a markup language that is used to structure content on the web. It defines the structure of a web page using tags and attributes. HTML is a static language, which means that it doesn’t change once it’s been loaded by a web browser. The latest version of HTML is HTML5, which was released in 2014.
What is XHTML?
XHTML is a reformulation of HTML using XML syntax. It’s a more strict and structured version of HTML that enforces certain rules that HTML doesn’t. XHTML is designed to be more modular and extensible than HTML. The latest version of XHTML is XHTML 1.1, which was released in 2001.
Key Differences between XHTML and HTML
Syntax
The syntax of XHTML is stricter than HTML. All tags must be properly nested in XHTML, and all elements must be closed. XHTML requires lowercase tags and attributes, while HTML allows both upper and lowercase. XHTML also requires the use of quotes around attribute values.
Document Type Declaration
In HTML, the document type declaration is optional. However, in XHTML, it’s required. XHTML requires a document type declaration that specifies the version of XHTML being used and the document type definition (DTD) that the document conforms to.
Tags and Attributes
XHTML has fewer tags and attributes than HTML. Some HTML tags and attributes have been deprecated in XHTML, which means they are no longer supported. XHTML also introduces new tags and attributes that aren’t available in HTML.
Case Sensitivity
XHTML is case-sensitive, which means that all tags and attributes must be written in lowercase. HTML, on the other hand, is case insensitive, which means that tags and attributes can be written in upper or lower case.
Handling of Errors
HTML is forgiving when it comes to errors. If there’s an error in the HTML code, the browser will try to correct it and display the web page as best it can. XHTML, on the other hand, is unforgiving when it comes to errors. If there’s an error in the XHTML code, the browser will not display the web page at all.
Accessibility
XHTML is designed to be more accessible than HTML. It enforces certain rules that make web pages more accessible to people with disabilities. For example, all images must have an alt attribute that describes the image for people who are visually impaired.
Which Markup Language XHTML vs HTML is Best for Your Website?
The choice between XHTML and HTML depends on your website’s needs. If you’re creating a simple website that doesn’t require strict rules and guidelines, HTML may be the best choice. HTML is more forgiving and allows for more flexibility in coding. On the other hand, if you’re creating a more complex website that requires strict guidelines and adherence to web standards, then XHTML may be the better choice. XHTML enforces strict rules and guidelines that make your website more accessible and compatible with different browsers.
Another factor to consider is the audience for your website. If your audience primarily uses older browsers, then HTML may be the better choice since it’s supported by all major browsers. However, if your audience primarily uses newer browsers and devices, then XHTML may be a better choice since it’s designed to be more modular and extensible.
Ultimately, the choice between XHTML and HTML depends on your website’s specific needs and requirements. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each markup language and choose the one that best suits your website’s needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, XHTML and HTML are both markup languages used for creating web pages. XHTML is a more strict and structured version of HTML that enforces certain rules and guidelines, while HTML is more forgiving and flexible. The choice between XHTML and HTML depends on your website’s specific needs and requirements. By understanding the key differences between XHTML and HTML, you can make an informed decision about which markup language is best for your website.
FAQs
- What does XHTML stand for?
XHTML stands for Extensible Hypertext Markup Language.
- What is the latest version of HTML?
The latest version of HTML is HTML5, which was released in 2014.
- Is XHTML more accessible than HTML?
Yes, XHTML is designed to be more accessible than HTML. It enforces certain rules and guidelines that make web pages more accessible to people with disabilities.
- What is the difference between HTML and XHTML syntax?
XHTML syntax is stricter than HTML syntax. XHTML requires properly nested tags and closed elements, lowercase tags and attributes, and quotes around attribute values.
- Can XHTML be used with all major browsers?
Yes, XHTML can be used with all major browsers, but it’s more compatible with newer browsers and devices.
