Google Testing Extra White Space in Search Results

Google is running a limited test with extra white space in the search results, adding significantly more space between each individual search result than we normally see.

Here is how it looks in the search results, one with the extra white space and the other showing how Google normally displays the results.

Justin Aldridge from Artemis Marketing was the first to spot this test, and sent us the screenshots.  He mentioned that between the two, he prefers the look of the one on the left with the added white space.

The results with the white space definitely looks less cluttered compared to the usual version we see on the right.  But for those who rank in the organic search results, it definitely pushes those organic results down lower, especially since this particular query shows 4 ads, one with the full compliment of sitelinks.

I couldn’t replicate this version, so it is likely one of Google’s very limited tests.

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Jennifer Slegg

Founder & Editor at The SEM Post

Jennifer Slegg is a longtime speaker and expert in search engine marketing, working in the industry for almost 20 years. When she isn't sitting at her desk writing and working, she can be found grabbing a latte at her local Starbucks or planning her next trip to Disneyland. She regularly speaks at Pubcon, SMX, State of Search, Brighton SEO and more, and has been presenting at conferences for over a decade.

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