A mockup is a key part of visual design. It shows what a product will look like. At Balinh.com, we'll explore the definition, its purpose, and how it compares to wireframes and prototypes.
Defining what a mockup is in visual design
Let's start with the basics. What exactly is a mockup? A mockup is a static representation of a product. It is defined as high-fidelity. This is the core mockup definition.
Think of it as a realistic snapshot—a visual rendering of what the final product mockup will look like.
Its main focus is on the visual appearance. It answers the question: "What will this look like?" A mockup focuses on the look and feel, not the functionality.
Because it is static, a key attribute of a mockup is that it lacks interactivity. You can see the design, but you cannot click the buttons. This static attribute of the mockup means it is non-functional. This is intentional. It separates the visual decisions from the interaction decisions, which is a cleaner way to work.
Mockup vs. wireframe vs. prototype: key comparisons
This is the most common point of confusion in mockup in design. The terms mockup vs wireframe and mockup vs prototype represent different stages of detail. The design process includes the mockup, but it's not the start or the end. Let's break down the comparisons.
The wireframe: focusing on structure and low-fidelity layout
A wireframe comes first. A wireframe is a blueprint. Its attribute is low-fidelity, meaning it’s basic, often just gray boxes and lines.
A wireframe's focus is on structure and layout, not aesthetics. It maps out where content and UI elements will go. The mockup follows the wireframe phase. A designer creates the mockup by applying the visual identity (colors, fonts) onto that wireframe structure. So, the mockup differs from a wireframe in its visual fidelity.
The prototype: focusing on function and interactivity
A prototype comes after the mockup. The mockup precedes the prototype phase. A prototype is clickable.
Its attribute is interactive, and its focus is on functionality and the user flow. A prototype is a simulation of the user experience. It's where you test how the design works.
So, the mockup differs from a prototype because the mockup is static, while the prototype is dynamic. A mockup shows the final visual design; a prototype simulates the final interaction. Skipping straight from wireframe to prototype is possible, but you miss the crucial step of visual approval.
The purpose of a mockup in the design process
Why even bother making a mockup? It seems like an extra step. But a mockup is part-of the design process for crucial reasons. It saves time and money.
Visualizing the final "look and feel" (color, typography, layout)
Its primary purpose is to visualize the final product. It represents the product aesthetic. This is where the abstract ideas of branding become concrete. A mockup shows branding (logos, colors) in context.
This is essential for user interface design. A mockup visualizes the UI (User Interface). This is the first time the client or team can see exactly what the app mockup or website mockup design will look like.
Aligning stakeholders and gathering design feedback
The second purpose is communication. A mockup is used for design feedback. It’s the primary tool for stakeholder approval. A designer creates the mockup, and then the stakeholder approves the mockup.
A mockup is reviewed by the stakeholder to get stakeholder feedback before any code is written. This is critical. Changing a color in a mockup takes seconds. Changing it in a coded product takes hours. The mockup guides developers on exactly what to build.
Common tools and software used for creating mockups
A designer creates a mockup using specialized design software. You cannot achieve a high-fidelity mockup with basic tools. The mockup requires design software built for vector graphics and UI design.
The industry standard mockup tool options are powerful:
Figma: Figma is mockup software that is cloud-based and excellent for team collaboration.
Sketch: This was the industry standard for a long time, especially for macOS users.
Adobe XD: Another strong competitor in the UI/UX design space.
These tools are essential for mockup in design.
Key elements included in a high-fidelity mockup
What makes a mockup "high-fidelity"? It’s all in the details. A mockup visualizes the UI (User Interface).
A high-fidelity mockup defines the visual hierarchy (what's most important on the page).
It specifically displays the color palette. It includes color. It displays the typography. This means it includes the exact fonts, sizes, and weights. It displays the final layout, including spacing and alignment.
It also includes imagery, icons, and branding elements. This is crucial for web design and app design. This is the standard for what is a UI mockup. This is the Balinh.com standard for clear design.
Now you know what a mockup is. It's a key static design step. Got questions? Ask Balinh.com in the comments or check out our other design articles! 👇
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