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CSS Outline Width

CSS Outline Width

The CSS outline-width property is used to define the thickness of the outline surrounding an element. Unlike borders, outlines do not occupy space within the box model and do not affect the layout. Outlines are often used to highlight elements for accessibility or interaction purposes.

01. What is CSS Outline Width?

The outline-width property controls the thickness of the outline applied to an element. It can take predefined keyword values or explicit length values in units such as px, em, or rem. This property ensures that outlines are clearly visible and distinguishable when applied.

02. Syntax of CSS Outline Width

Here is the syntax for using the outline-width property:


/* Using predefined keyword values */
.element {
    outline-width: thin;
}
.element {
    outline-width: medium;
}
.element {
    outline-width: thick;
}

/* Using length values */
.element {
    outline-width: 4px;
}

The predefined values—thin, medium, and thick—provide commonly used outline widths, while length values give more precise control.

03. Values for CSS Outline Width

The outline-width property accepts the following values:

  • thin: Specifies a thin outline width.
  • medium: Specifies a medium outline width (default value).
  • thick: Specifies a thick outline width.
  • <length>: Specifies a custom outline width using a specific unit, such as px, em, or rem.

Using length values provides the most flexibility and allows you to match the outline width to your design requirements.

04. Practical Examples of CSS Outline Width

04.1. Applying Different Outline Widths

Below is an example of elements with different outline-width values:


<div class="example thin-outline">Thin Outline</div>
<div class="example medium-outline">Medium Outline</div>
<div class="example thick-outline">Thick Outline</div>
<div class="example custom-outline">Custom Outline (5px)</div>


.example {
    outline-style: solid;
    outline-color: blue;
    padding: 10px;
    margin-bottom: 10px;
}
.thin-outline {
    outline-width: thin;
}
.medium-outline {
    outline-width: medium;
}
.thick-outline {
    outline-width: thick;
}
.custom-outline {
    outline-width: 5px;
}

04.2. Highlighting Interactive Elements

Using outline-width with other outline properties is common for indicating focus on interactive elements like buttons or input fields:


<button class="focus-button">Click Me</button>


.focus-button {
    padding: 10px 20px;
    border: none;
    outline-width: medium;
    outline-style: dashed;
    outline-color: red;
    cursor: pointer;
}
.focus-button:focus {
    outline-width: thick;
    outline-color: green;
}

In this example, the button’s outline changes when it gains focus, enhancing accessibility and usability.

05. Accessibility Considerations

Using outlines with appropriate widths is essential for accessibility. It helps visually impaired users or keyboard-only users identify which element is currently focused. Always ensure that the outline is visible and contrasts well with the background.

06. Conclusion

The outline-width property is a powerful tool for styling and emphasizing elements without affecting their layout. By using predefined or custom values, you can create outlines that meet your design and accessibility needs.

Incorporate outline-width thoughtfully in your projects to ensure that interactive elements are both visually appealing and accessible to all users.

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