Microinteractions are small design elements that help users interact with a product. They are brief moments when users do a simple task. These tiny details make using apps and websites feel smooth and fun.
Think of when you like a post on social media. The heart icon changes color and grows bigger for a second. That's a microinteraction. These small touches give users quick feedback about their actions.
Microinteractions make digital products feel alive and responsive. They guide users through tasks and make the whole experience more enjoyable. Good microinteractions are so smooth that users barely notice them.
Not to be confused with
Animation
It refers to moving graphics or visual effects that may not involve user interaction.
Types of Microinteractions in UX
There are four main types of microinteractions that UX designers should know about.
- Trigger-based: These start when a user does something like clicking a button or hovering over an element. For example, a button changes color when you hover over it.
- System-initiated: These happen automatically without user input, like getting a notification when you receive a new message or when your phone battery is low.
- Manual: These need the user to do something specific to make them work. Pulling down to refresh a page or swiping to delete an email are good examples.
- Contextual: These appear based on where the user is or what they're doing. An example would be showing a tooltip when you hover over an unfamiliar icon.
Benefits of Using Microinteractions
Microinteractions bring many advantages to digital products and user experience. Here are a few benefits of using them:
- They make products more engaging and fun to use. Users enjoy smooth, responsive interfaces that react to their actions.
- They reduce user errors by giving instant feedback. When users know their action worked, they're less likely to click multiple times or get confused.
- They help users learn how to use the product faster. Good microinteractions teach users what different elements do without needing instructions.
- They make brands feel more human and friendly. Small, delightful moments create positive feelings about the product and company.
- They improve user satisfaction and keep people coming back. When products feel good to use, users are more likely to continue using them.
Note: All information and/or data from external sources is believed to be accurate as of the date of publication.
