To open links in a new window or not, that is the question
15. Mar, 2010 
8 Comments
I was wading through my email this evening when I came across one from a fellow blogger who mentioned that they disliked my practice of opening links in a the same browser window. She dislikes having to right-mouse click and select to open the link herself in a new tab/window. That got me thinking, and while I appreciate the need for going somewhere quick, AND her desire to not want to leave my page (thank you very much sweetie!), I still prefer the practice of opening my hyperlinks in the same browser window. Here’s why…
First, there is the control issue. I know that I get irritated when I go to a Web site that forces me to conform to how they want me to view their site. I’m doing them a favor, right? I think that forcing links to open in a new window is doing just that—taking the control away from the reader. If I want a link to open in a new window I know that I can simply right-mouse click and do just that. And if I don’t, I do know how to use my back button.
Second, there is the usability issue. Now I’m not saying that I have visually impaired readers fighting each other off to read my blogs, but in the event I ever do have one I don’t want their screen reader to have to fight with having multiple windows open. That’s just not a nice thing to do.
Of course, there are always exceptions. I try to always have non-HTML documents open in a new window. When doing so I also try to inform my readers of what is going to happen so there are no surprises. Other than that, however, my hyperlinks will continue to open in the same browser. 
If you’re looking for more scintillating reading on the subject, check out: Smashing Magazine: should links open in new windows?
Sound off! What do you think? Is 10 things doing it right, or does it really piss you off when a link opens in the same window?
I agree with your way of thinking. We tried to make links open in the same window at CMF Ads, but members expect ads to open in a new window. This is mostly because other ads behave in this way. Majority rules in this case, I’m afraid. Not that I think it’s the best way to do it
Ben´s last blog ..10 posts that clog up Twitter
Hi Ben! I haven’t heard from you in a while. I think this is a debate that will rage on as there are definitely many opinions on the subject. Alas, you just can’t please everyone.
while i understand the theory of opening links in the same window, i do prefer my links to open in a second window. when i read a story that includes links, i would like to follow that link temporarily without losing my place in the original article. i think external links within the context of a story is a way for the writer to add extra information without actually having to change the focus of the main article i am reading.
LIke just now, as i am writing this, i am wondering what ben’s last blog entry- “10 posts that clog twitter” is about. i right clicked it but will finish this off first…
come to think of it, this behavior of mine might in fact be explained by my ADHD…..hmmmm…..;-)
madbadcat´s last blog ..Digital Camera Infrared Conversion
If only there was magic code that would just *know* what you wanted as the reader, whether it be to open in a new window or not, and then did just that. Now there’s some technology!
I used to open all links in other windows and asked this same question on the CMF forums. basically, web savvy readers who want</i< to carry on reading your article will already know how to open the link in another reader so the general consensus was that you shouldn't set all links to open in a new window.
Emm´s last blog ..Wordless Wednesday ~ 15: Spiralling
I agree with your reasoning on why, when adding links, we have them opening in the same window. I HATE it when a website forces open a window or tab for a link. But then I’m also in the habit of right clicking all links and specifying where I want them to open.
Rebecca Laffar-Smith´s last blog ..The Growing Up of Writing
I get irritated when it opens in the same window. I’m a little ADD when I surf, and often go follow & tangent & come back.
When it opens in the same window, I either (a) have to got back, right click, etc…. or (b) never get back to the original page and quit reading. It has prevented me from bookmarking a site before.
Mine all open to another window. Sorry!
Wendy´s last blog ..Take a Deep Breath
Whar did you go, Web-Betty? You haven’t been ’round these here parts in months!