The Flexible Box Model: Display: Flex, Box, Flexbox

In the realm of CSS3, the flexible box model has revolutionized the way we layout elements. However, the abundance of display property values can be confusing. What are the differences between display: flex, display: box, and display: flexbox?

Display: Box

• Introduced in Firefox 2.0
• Prefixed in major browsers
• Limited support for wrapping

Display: Flexbox

• Introduced in Chrome 17 and Internet Explorer 10
• Prefixed support in several browsers

Display: Flex

• The current standard
• Unprefixed in most modern browsers
• Supports wrapping

Which to Use

The most reliable and supported option is display: flex. It is widely supported and offers the most comprehensive features.

If you need to support older browsers, you may need to use display: flexbox or display: box. Consult CanIUse for specific browser support information.

Conclusion

The flexible box model provides an intuitive and powerful way to layout elements. By understanding the differences between the display property values, you can effectively create flexible and responsive designs. Remember to always check browser support for the display property you choose to ensure compatibility across devices.