Infinite Scroll vs Pagination: Which Wins for SEO & UX?

The core UX difference is controlled, deliberate navigation (pagination) vs seamless, uninterrupted consumption (infinite scroll).

When designing content discovery-focused platforms like social feeds, image galleries, or news sites, where users are expected to explore content casually.

Hard-to-reach footers (that contain essential business info), difficult-to-find past items, potential browser slowdowns on long pages, and potentially overloading your users with content.

Generally, yes. Pagination’s unique URLs are easier for search engines to index. Infinite scroll requires special coding to make content visible to crawlers.

Yes. Loading everything onto one page can strain browsers + cause lag/crashes, unless techniques like virtual scrolling manage the load.

Absolutely. Hybrids like “Load More” buttons are now very common.

Pagination usually wins for core product listings. It aids in finding, comparing, and bookmarking specific items. Infinite scroll suits reviews or inspiration sections.

It challenges screen readers and keyboard users. New content must be announced clearly, and focus managed carefully to prevent disorientation.

Pros: User control, easy item location, clear content scope, stable performance
Cons: More clicks, interrupts flow, users might miss later pages, less fluid on mobile

Pagination users are often goal-focused. Infinite scroll users tend to explore passively.