What generally distinguishes mobile websites from responsive websites?

Mobile websites are typically distinguished from responsive websites primarily by their code base differences. A mobile website is often a standalone site that is specifically designed and coded for mobile devices, featuring a separate URL or a different version of the website that is tailored for mobile users. This means that the coding, design, and functionality are optimized for the mobile experience, potentially resulting in a more streamlined performance on smaller screens.

In contrast, a responsive website uses a single code base that automatically adjusts the layout and design according to the device's screen size. This adaptability is managed through CSS media queries, which allows the same content to be rendered appropriately on various devices, expanding the layout flexibly without necessitating a separate mobile version.

The emphasis on a distinct code base for mobile websites means that designers have specific control over mobile interactions, user interface, and user experience on devices, which can lead to performance optimizations for that specific environment. This specificity in development is what sets mobile websites apart in this context.