InVision vs Zeplin: What are the differences?

Introduction

In this article, we will compare and highlight the key differences between InVision and Zeplin. Both InVision and Zeplin are popular design collaboration tools used in the product development process. While they share some similarities, they also have distinct features and functionalities that set them apart from each other.

1. Design Collaboration: InVision is primarily focused on design collaboration and prototyping. It allows designers to create interactive click-through prototypes that can be shared with stakeholders for feedback and testing. Zeplin, on the other hand, is more focused on developer handoff. It provides a platform for designers to export design assets and specifications to developers in a way that is easy to understand and implement.

2. Workflow Integration: InVision offers seamless integration with design tools such as Sketch and Adobe XD. Users can import their designs directly into InVision and sync them with their prototypes. Zeplin, on the other hand, is compatible with a wider range of design tools, including Sketch, XD, Figma, and Photoshop. This allows designers to work with their preferred design tool while still being able to use Zeplin for developer handoff.

3. Design Version Control: InVision provides version control features that allow designers to manage and track different iterations of their designs. This is particularly useful in collaborative design projects where multiple designers are working on the same project simultaneously. Zeplin, on the other hand, does not have built-in design version control features. It primarily focuses on presenting design specs and assets to developers.

4. Design Handoff: InVision is known for its powerful design handoff capabilities. It provides developers with a complete set of design specifications and assets, including CSS styles, font sizes, and distances. Developers can inspect and download these assets directly from the InVision platform, making the handoff process more efficient. Zeplin also provides design handoff features, but it is more focused on extracting design assets and specifications rather than providing a comprehensive design handoff experience.

5. Feedback and Collaboration: InVision offers robust feedback and collaboration features, allowing stakeholders to leave comments, suggestions, and annotations directly on the design prototypes. This streamlines the feedback loop and makes it easier for designers to iterate on their designs. Although Zeplin does not provide the same level of interactive feedback and collaboration features as InVision, it does offer a platform for designers and developers to communicate and discuss design details.

6. Project Management: InVision includes project management features that allow users to create tasks, assign them to team members, and track their progress. It provides a centralized platform for project management, design collaboration, and prototyping. Zeplin, on the other hand, does not have built-in project management features. It focuses more on design handoff and collaboration.

In summary, InVision and Zeplin have distinct focuses and functionalities. InVision is primarily a design collaboration and prototyping tool, while Zeplin is more focused on design handoff and developer collaboration. Each tool has its own strengths and can be beneficial depending on the specific needs of the project.