Prototype Fidelity Secrets: How Detailed Should You Go?
Jul 28, 2025
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2 min read
Not all prototypes are created equal—and that’s a good thing.
Depending on where you are in the design process, your prototype should serve a different purpose. So, how detailed should you go? That’s where prototype fidelity comes in. Let’s break it down.
What is prototype fidelity?
Fidelity is the level of detail and realism in your prototypes. Think of it as a spectrum: from quick, simple layouts to fully interactive, near-final experiences. Knowing which level to use (and when) will save you time, improve team alignment, and get better feedback.
Low fidelity
Quick and rough. Perfect for early-stage ideas. Use low fidelity when you’re exploring concepts, aligning with your team, or looking for early validation.
Mid fidelity
More realistic, still flexible. Mid-fidelity is great for testing navigation and core user flows. It looks closer to the real thing, but still doesn’t require final visuals.
High fidelity
Polished and interactive. High fidelity gives you a near-final experience, making it ideal for user testing, stakeholder presentations, and even handoff.
Highest fidelity
As close to the real product as it gets. This level is used when you need full realism, especially for complex animations, microinteractions, or high-stakes stakeholder buy-in.
Our tip
Don’t overbuild a prototype just to impress—build it to learn.
Here’s a quick guide:
Goal | Use this fidelity |
|---|---|
Concept feedback | Low fidelity |
Testing navigation | Mid fidelity |
Fine-tuned interactions | High fidelity |
Conclusion
Prototype fidelity is all about intentionality. Match the level of detail to the goal of your design phase. Start low to think fast, go high to validate details, and always build just enough to move forward with confidence.
What is prototype fidelity?
Fidelity is the level of detail and realism in your prototypes. Think of it as a spectrum: from quick, simple layouts to fully interactive, near-final experiences. Knowing which level to use (and when) will save you time, improve team alignment, and get better feedback.
Low fidelity
Quick and rough. Perfect for early-stage ideas. Use low fidelity when you’re exploring concepts, aligning with your team, or looking for early validation.
Mid fidelity
More realistic, still flexible. Mid-fidelity is great for testing navigation and core user flows. It looks closer to the real thing, but still doesn’t require final visuals.
High fidelity
Polished and interactive. High fidelity gives you a near-final experience, making it ideal for user testing, stakeholder presentations, and even handoff.
Highest fidelity
As close to the real product as it gets. This level is used when you need full realism, especially for complex animations, microinteractions, or high-stakes stakeholder buy-in.
Our tip
Don’t overbuild a prototype just to impress—build it to learn.
Here’s a quick guide:
Goal | Use this fidelity |
|---|---|
Concept feedback | Low fidelity |
Testing navigation | Mid fidelity |
Fine-tuned interactions | High fidelity |
Conclusion
Prototype fidelity is all about intentionality. Match the level of detail to the goal of your design phase. Start low to think fast, go high to validate details, and always build just enough to move forward with confidence.
If you aren't following us on Instagram already, you're seriously missing out! Become a part of our ever-growing community and learn something new from the field of product design every. single. day.
Happy designing! 🥳
andrija & supercharge design team
If you aren't following us on Instagram already, you're seriously missing out! Become a part of our ever-growing community and learn something new from the field of product design every. single. day.
Happy designing! 🥳
andrija & supercharge design team
