February 26, 2026|
Vaibhav Kakkar|
UI/UX Design|
No, UI and UX are not the same thing. But they are closely related. They have to work together to give you the best experience of using applications.
UX means User Experience. It is the complete process a person goes through while using a product. It focuses on how the product works and how users feel while connecting with it. UX is about understanding users, and identifying their problems. They are to design solutions that make the experience smooth and logical.
UI means User Interface. It includes buttons, colors, fonts, layouts, icons, and spacing. UI focuses on how the product looks and how users interact with what they see on the screen.
So, In short, difference between ui and ux is UX decides how something works, and UI decides how it looks.
The primary job of a UI designer is to design the visual elements of a digital product. A UI designer creates layouts. They select appropriate typography and color schemes that align with the brand. They ensure that the overall visual style remains consistent throughout the product. This helps with brand recognition in the minds of the consumers.
UI designers create design systems by developing reusable elements like buttons, forms, and cards. This helps maintain uniformity across different pages and features.
This keeps the look and feel consistent throughout different pages and features.
UI designers use tools like Figma or Adobe XD to show how screens are expected to look and work before development starts. Another important part of their role is creating detailed design instructions for developers. This step, usually referred to as the design transfer phase, helps make sure the finished product reflects the original design properly
UI designers need strong attention to detail and a good understanding of visual balance. Their other skills include knowing branding, and accessibility principles.
A UX designer focuses on the overall experience of users. Their goal is to make the product useful, easy to use, and enjoyable.
A UX designer conducts user research through interviews, creates buyer personas, surveys, and usability tests. This helps them understand user needs, behaviors, and challenges.
They organise and structure content in a logical manner. This process is known as information architecture and ensures that users can easily find what they are looking for.
They create wireframes, which are simple layouts. These define the structure and flow of the product before visual design begins.
They conduct usability testing with real users to observe how they interact with the product. Based on this research, they go for improvements and refine the product to appeal to the target audience.
UX designers' main reliance is on research and data to support their decisions. For them, usability is the primary concern and they do everything to make the structure smooth and hassle free for users.
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Both UI and UX design are among the most in-demand roles in India’s technology and startup sphere today. Salaries depend on experience, city, portfolio strength, and company type.
Salary Details
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Career prospect is great in this field. Every company requires a website to attract their target audience. Hence the opportunities are huge in this sector. You can take up a junior position and then move to senior levels showcasing your expertise.
Another great option is freelancing. You can earn up to INR 5,000 per hour if you have the right skills and expertise. International clients bring more money and opportunities.
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UI and UX designers share some common skills. However, each role also requires specific skills they need to master.
UI and UX designers must know how to use design tools like Figma, Adobe XD, and Sketch. They should be able to create prototypes and interactive mockups to show how a product will function.
They should possess strong communication skills because they work closely with developers, product managers, and other teams. Understanding user needs and showing empathy while designing solutions is their work.
They also need strong problem-solving skills. Creative thinking helps them design experiences that are both useful and engaging.
Here were some major differences between UI and UX design trends in industries.
No, a traditional degree is not required. Many successful UI/UX designers are self-taught or have completed online courses. Online courses like IIM SKILLS. Coursera provides effective learning along with flexibility. The most important aspect of your career when you are starting is your portfolio. Companies want to see how you think and how you solve problems, not just your academic qualifications. Practice a lot, do real case projects, redesign other websites as part of a portfolio.
It depends on your proclivity. If you are visually creative and enjoy working with colors, typography, and layouts, you may prefer starting with UI. If you enjoy research, psychology, and solving structural problems, UX is the one for you. Many beginners learn the basics of both and then choose one later. Learning UX first gives you a strong strategic foundation. UI skills help you create visually impressive portfolio projects.
Figma is currently the most widely used tool in the industry. It is used for wireframing, prototyping, and high-fidelity design. Other commonly used tools include Adobe XD and Sketch, especially among Mac users.
4. Can one person do both UI and UX?
Yes, one person can handle both roles. Many professionals work as UI/UX designers and manage both research and visual design responsibilities. Having skills in both areas makes you more flexible and valuable, especially in the early stages of your career.
With consistent and focused effort, most people can become job-ready in 6 to 12 months. Intensive bootcamps may shorten this timeline to 3 to 6 months. Self-learners using online resources such as YouTube or structured certification programs may take a bit longer.
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Conclusion
The above mentioned skills are absolutely vital to becoming a successful UI/UX designer. UI and UX design are among the most exciting and rewarding careers in the digital sphere today. Although they focus on different aspects, they work together to shape every digital experience we use. UX focuses on research, empathy, and strategy. UI focuses on visual design and presentation. You might have a knack for both. Then choose one that aligns with your sensibilities and talents more.
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Vaibhav Kakkar is the Founder & CEO of IIM SKILLS, a global EdTech leader committed to making professional education practical, affordable, and career-transforming. Recognized as a global voice in professional...
