Dark Mode, Scroll Hijacking, and Other UX Trends You Should (or Shouldn’t) Try
UX trends—some make your website feel cutting-edge, and others make users want to throw their devices out the window. So let’s talk about which trends are worth the hype and which ones should be left in the ‘cool but annoying’ pile.
We get it. You want your website to stand out. You want engagement, conversions, and a seamless experience that makes users think, Wow, this brand really gets me. But just because a UX trend is making waves doesn’t mean it belongs on your website. Here’s our expert take on some of the hottest UX trends and whether you should embrace or avoid them.
Dark Mode: A UX Game-Changer or Just a Vibe?
Dark mode has been taking over everything from apps to websites, and for good reason. It reduces eye strain (especially at night), saves battery life on OLED screens, and—let’s be honest—just looks sleek.
Should you try it? Yes, but with some caveats. Make sure your dark mode design maintains contrast and readability. If your brand’s colour palette doesn’t work well with dark backgrounds, forcing it could backfire. Also, let users toggle between light and dark modes. Nobody likes being forced into a design choice (looking at you, websites that ignore user preferences).
Who’s doing it right? Apple offers seamless dark mode experiences that prioritize both aesthetics and accessibility.
Scroll Hijacking: Bold Move or UX Nightmare?
You’ve seen it—those sites where the scroll feels like it has a mind of its own. Instead of smoothly navigating, you’re yanked from one oversized section to another. It’s meant to create a cinematic, controlled experience, but in reality, it often frustrates users who just want to get to the information they need.
Should you try it? Probably not. Unless your website is an immersive storytelling experience (think high-end fashion campaigns or interactive media sites), scroll hijacking is usually just a nuisance. Users expect control over their navigation—taking that away is a fast track to higher bounce rates.
Who’s doing it right? Csek Creative uses subtle scroll hijacking effectively for guided product storytelling without making users feel trapped.
Microinteractions: Small Details, Big Impact
Ever noticed how a button subtly changes when you hover over it? Or how a small animation confirms your action, like a checkmark appearing after a successful form submission? That’s a microinteraction, and it’s one of the best UX trends to implement.
Should you try it? Absolutely. Microinteractions add delight, guide users, and provide instant feedback, making your website feel intuitive and responsive. Just keep them subtle—if users start noticing them more than your content, you’ve gone too far.
Who’s doing it right? Noovo Travel Vans enhance user experience with thoughtful animations and interactive feedback.
Brutalist Design: Edgy or Just Ugly?
Brutalism in web design ditches sleek minimalism for raw, in-your-face aesthetics—think bold typography, harsh contrasts, and layouts that feel a little chaotic. It’s meant to stand out and reject the ‘perfectly polished’ look.
Should you try it? Only if it aligns with your brand. If you’re a high-end luxury furniture store, brutalism might send the wrong message. But if you’re an artsy, disruptive brand that thrives on pushing boundaries, it could work.
Who’s doing it right? Balenciaga leans into brutalist design, reinforcing its avant-garde brand identity.
Infinite Scrolling: Convenience or Content Overload?
The endless scroll feature (think social media feeds) keeps users engaged by continuously loading new content. It works great for platforms like Instagram, but for business websites? That’s another story.
Should you try it? Probably not for key pages like your homepage or product listings. Users need a sense of control and an endpoint—especially when searching for something specific. Pagination or a ‘Load More’ button often leads to a better experience.
Who’s doing it right? Instagram and Pinterest use infinite scrolling effectively for endless discovery, but most business sites should tread carefully.
Personalization: A Must-Have for UX Success
Imagine landing on a website and instantly seeing content that’s relevant to you—recommendations based on your interests, dynamic CTAs, or even location-based offers. Personalization makes users feel understood and can seriously boost engagement.
Should you try it? 100% yes. With tools like AI-driven recommendations and dynamic content, personalization is more accessible than ever. Just be mindful of privacy concerns—nobody likes feeling like they’re being watched.
Who’s doing it right? Netflix and Amazon lead the charge in personalization, tailoring experiences based on user behaviour.
The Verdict: Which UX Trends Are Worth It?
- Embrace: Dark mode (if done right), micro interactions, and personalization.
- Tread carefully: Brutalist design and infinite scrolling (only if they fit your brand and audience).
- Avoid like a bad ex: Scroll hijacking (unless you’re a digital art exhibit or a super cool marketing & AI agency). Some trends are best used strategically!
At the end of the day, UX trends should enhance the user experience, not complicate it. If a trend improves usability, keeps visitors engaged, and aligns with your brand’s identity, it’s worth considering. But if it’s just there to look cool? Hard pass.
Ready to Elevate Your Website’s UX (Without the Annoying Gimmicks)?
If you want a site that feels fresh, functional, and frustration-free, let’s talk. At Csek Creative, we craft UX experiences that actually work—no unnecessary gimmicks, just smart, strategic design. Hit us up, and let’s make your website a place users actually want to visit.
