Pagination or Infinite Scroll: Quick Decision Guide

What each pattern is

Pagination splits content into pages, usually with page numbers and next/previous controls.

Infinite scroll loads more items as the user scrolls (sometimes with a “Load more” button as a hybrid).

Start with the user’s main goal

This is the fastest way to decide.

Pick pagination when users want to:

• Find something specific

• Compare items across a set

• Keep their place and return later

• Reach the footer

Pick infinite scroll when users want to:

• Discover casually

• Consume continuously

• Stay in a flow with fewer clicks

A simple rule: if “I need to get back to this exact item later” is common, pagination is usually safer.

If you’re still unsure: choose the hybrid

A hybrid, continuous list with a “Load more” button, often gives you the best balance:

• Users stay in flow

• The footer remains reachable

• Accessibility is simpler

• Performance is easier to control

Mini cheat sheet

• Choose pagination if: finding, comparing, bookmarking, returning, or footer access matters.

• Choose infinite scroll if: discovery and continuous consumption matter, and you can build strong state restoration.

• Choose “Load more” if: you want flow but also control, predictability, and accessibility safety.