Define "less code."
A really simple page, laid out in tables may not have significantly more code than a proper website using HTML4 and CSS. And this is due to the fact that you tend to discount the stylesheet when you are counting lines of code.
In fact, I can see where one might actually have more lines of code in HTML4/CSS with no tables than a page laid out using tables if the entire page consists of header, footer navigation and a short line of text with a mailto: link, as in a contact page. Especially where the CSS defines pages and styles other than the ones being displayed.
But it's not about how much code you have.
One reason why we discount the code in the style sheet is because we know that a browser loads that style sheet and keeps it in memory when loading additional pages on the same website. So once it's loaded, the client's browser knows how to style all of the rest of the pages on the website.
Table-based websites are a problem because:
- They don't position everything the same for all browsers.
- Faster page loading (especially once CSS is in the client's memory).
- Redesigning is more efficient.
- Redesigning is less expensive.
- The visual consistency is maintained throughout the website.
- It is better for search engine optimization.
- It is better for accessibility.
- You can quickly change anything that is style-based and those styles ripple throughout the website.
- It is easier for teams to work on a website
- Usability is increased with printer-based CSS as well as faster page downloading.
- One is able to make more complex layouts and designs using CSS.
- One is not using spacer GIFs all over the website.
Now, if one does have tabular data, it is highly recommended that one do use tables. And one may style those tables in CSS.
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