Sass vs CSS Variables: Which is More Performant?

What are the performance differences between Sass and CSS variables?

Sass is a preprocessor that compiles to CSS, while CSS variables are native to the browser. Generally, CSS variables can be more performant because they are processed by the browser directly, reducing the need for additional compilation.

Does using Sass slow down my website compared to CSS variables?

Not necessarily. While Sass may add some overhead during the build process, the final CSS output can be optimized. However, CSS variables can lead to faster runtime performance since they are handled by the browser.

Are there any scenarios where Sass is better than CSS variables?

Yes, Sass offers features like nesting, mixins, and functions that can simplify complex stylesheets. If your project requires these features, Sass might be more beneficial despite the performance considerations.

Can I use both Sass and CSS variables together?

Absolutely! You can use Sass for its advanced features and CSS variables for dynamic theming or runtime changes, combining the strengths of both.