Toast vs Snackbar vs Banner: Which One Should You Use?

Alert (toast)

Alert is a brief, non-intrusive message that appears on the screen to notify users about system events or provide feedback for their actions.

Use alert (toast) when:

• Acknowledge the status change or update without navigating away from the current screen

• Display a brief message

• Inform users about new information

Snackbar

Snackbar is a temporary, non-intrusive component in mobile and web apps that provides brief feedback or status updates about an operation, appearing at the bottom of the screen with a message and optional action, then disappearing automatically or when dismissed, ensuring minimal interruption to the user experience.

Use a snackbar when:

• the user benefits from an immediate follow-up action

• the message relates directly to what just happened

• undo or quick correction matters

If your “toast vs snackbar” debate includes the word undo, you’re usually in snackbar territory.

In many apps, snackbars are also a better fit than toasts when the app is in the foreground, because they can include an action the user can take right away.

Banner

Banner is a design element that is usually horizontal and stretches across the whole or most of the page. Its function is to stand out and display important messages or announcements to users. Their usual placement is at the very top or bottom of the screen.

Use a banner when:

• the message affects ongoing use

• the user needs time to understand or decide

• the issue won’t be fixed by waiting a few seconds

Banners are a solid choice for warnings, system states, and anything that changes what the user can do next.

Final thoughts

Most teams overthink toast vs snackbar and underthink urgency. Pick the pattern that matches the consequence of missing the message and the amount of control the user needs at the moment.