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.

Read the rest of this story on the Csek Creative website here.