Difference Between HTML and DHTML: HTML vs DHTML, Similarities and More
Updated on Feb 24, 2025 | 9 min read | 1.2k views
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Updated on Feb 24, 2025 | 9 min read | 1.2k views
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In 1993, HTML became the foundation of web development, allowing static pages to be displayed online. As websites grew, developers needed more interactive features. In 1997 DHTML emerged, combining HTML, JavaScript, CSS, and the Document Object Model to create dynamic web pages.
This shift enabled animations, real-time updates, and improved user experiences. This article explains the difference between HTML and DHTML, their similarities, and how to choose the right one.
Tim Berners-Lee developed HTML in 1993 as the standard markup language for creating web pages. It structures content using elements and tags, making it essential for website development. Modern platforms like WordPress, Shopify, and corporate websites use HTML to present information effectively. Below are the key aspects of HTML and its role across industries:
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Understanding HTML’s elements, attributes, and semantic structure is crucial for building well-organized and accessible web pages. Below are its essential components.
HTML includes essential components like tags, attributes, and elements that structure webpages, ensuring cross-browser compatibility and responsive design. Below are the key components of HTML.
Below is an example demonstrating these components in action.
Code Snippet:
<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
<head>
<title>Basic HTML Page</title>
</head>
<body>
<!-- Main Heading -->
<h1>Welcome to HTML</h1>
<!-- Paragraph with styling -->
<p style="color: blue;">This is a simple paragraph explaining HTML basics.</p>
<!-- Hyperlink -->
<a href="https://www.example.com">Click here to learn more</a>
<!-- Image -->
<img src="https://img.freepik.com/free-psd/3d-nft-icon-developer-male-illustration_629802-6.jpg" alt="Sample Image">
<!-- Table -->
<table border="1">
<tr>
<th>Name</th>
<th>City</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Amit</td>
<td>Mumbai</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Priya</td>
<td>Bangalore</td>
</tr>
</table>
</body>
</html>
Output:
Welcome to HTML
(This is a simple paragraph explaining HTML basics in blue color.)
[ Click here to learn more ] (Clickable link)
[ Sample Image ] (Displayed Image)
-------------------------
| Name | City |
-------------------------
| Amit | Mumbai |
| Priya | Bangalore |
-------------------------
Explanation:
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Having understood HTML, let’s move on to its more dynamic counterpart—DHTML.
DHTML is not a separate language but a blend of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, enabling real-time updates and dynamic effects. Modern platforms like Google Docs, e-commerce sites, and online dashboards use DHTML for better user experiences.
Below are the key benefits of DHTML across industries.
Also Read: Structure of HTML: The Essential Guide to Building Web Pages in 2025
DHTML’s effectiveness depends on its core components, each crucial in delivering seamless interactivity. Below is an overview of these components.
DHTML integrates multiple technologies to enhance user engagement. Here are its essential components.
Below is an example demonstrating DHTML in action.
Code Snippet:
<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
<head>
<title>DHTML Example</title>
<style>
body { text-align: center; }
#message { font-size: 20px; color: green; }
button { padding: 10px 20px; background: blue; color: white; border: none; cursor: pointer; }
</style>
<script>
function changeText() {
document.getElementById("message").innerHTML = "Hello, Raj! Welcome to DHTML.";
}
</script>
</head>
<body>
<h1>DHTML Interactive Example</h1>
<p id="message">Click the button to change this text.</p>
<button onclick="changeText()">Click Me</button>
</body>
</html>
Output:
DHTML Interactive Example
Click the button to change this text.
[Click Me] (Button)
After clicking: "Hello, Raj! Welcome
Explanation:
Now that you know what DHTML is, let’s dive into the key differences between HTML and DHTML.
HTML structures static web pages, while DHTML enhances interactivity by combining HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Below is a comparison of their key aspects.
Parameter |
HTML |
DHTML |
Full-Form | HyperText Markup Language | Dynamic HyperText Markup Language |
Definition | Standard language for web page structure | Enhances HTML with CSS and JavaScript |
Components | Uses only HTML elements | Combines HTML, CSS, JavaScript, DOM |
Nature | Static and unchangeable | Dynamic and interactive |
Browser Support | Supported by all browsers | Requires modern browsers with JavaScript |
Database Connectivity | No direct connectivity | Can fetch and update data dynamically |
Dependencies | Independent, works alone | Depends on CSS, JavaScript, and DOM |
Development Tools | Text editors like Notepad, VS Code | Requires IDEs supporting scripting, like Sublime Text |
Usage | Used for static websites, documentation | Used for animations, interactive elements |
Event Handling | No support for event-driven actions | Supports event handling (click, hover, input) |
Dynamic Content Updates | Not possible | Updates page content dynamically using JavaScript |
DOM API | No interaction with DOM | Relies on the DOM API for modifications |
Example | Basic webpage with text and images | Interactive page with animations and effects |
While there are key differences, HTML and DHTML also share some important similarities. Let's have a look at them.
Despite the difference between HTML and DHTML, both are crucial in web development, with DHTML extending HTML’s capabilities while sharing common features. Below are the key similarities between HTML and DHTML.
Also Read: Most Important 30 HTML Interview Questions & Answers [2024]
Having covered their similarities, let’s discuss how to choose the right technology for your web development project.
DHTML is not a replacement for HTML but an extension that adds dynamic functionality. While HTML provides the foundation for web content, DHTML integrates JavaScript and CSS to enable interactive elements. Below are scenarios where each plays a role.
HTML serves as the backbone for content-focused websites that do not require dynamic behavior. Here are key use cases:
DHTML leverages JavaScript and CSS to introduce real-time interactivity. While modern JavaScript frameworks now dominate dynamic web development, DHTML was traditionally used for:
Today, modern JavaScript libraries like React and Vue.js have largely replaced traditional DHTML techniques for dynamic content. However, understanding DHTML provides historical context for web development’s evolution.
HTML provides the foundational structure for web pages, while DHTML enhances interactivity and user engagement. To master these concepts, upGrad offers comprehensive programs designed to equip you with the necessary skills. upGrad stands out for its industry-aligned learning and expert-led guidance.
Here are some upGrad courses that can help you stand out:
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