Different types of prototypes: high-, mid-, and low-fidelity

Do you want to innovate and have your idea developed in collaboration with Beeliners? We would love to help you! Feel free to drop by for a cup of coffee and we will be happy to discuss the possibilities with you.

What are low-fidelity prototypes?

Low-fidelity prototypes are simple and rudimentary prototypes that are developed in a quick and inexpensive way, without paying much attention to details or finishing. They are usually made using paper, cardboard, fabric, clay or other readily available materials.

Low-fidelity prototypes are used to explore, test and validate ideas early in the design process. They are easy to make and modify, allowing designers to experiment quickly and gather feedback from users, without investing in expensive and time-consuming manufacturing processes.

Low-fidelity prototypes can take different forms, such as sketches, paper mock-ups, maquettes, storyboard, flowcharts or wireframes. They are often used early in the design process to visualise and test ideas, and to determine the basic structure and functionality of the product. They are also useful when communicating designs and ideas with team members and stakeholders, since spoken and written descriptions can be interpreted differently. This can lead to confusion in the execution of your idea.

What are medium-fidelity prototypes?

Medium-fidelity prototypes are prototypes that are more detailed and sophisticated than low-fidelity prototypes, but less sophisticated and complex than high-fidelity prototypes. They are in the middle of the prototyping spectrum and offer a good balance between functionality, usability and cost.

Medium-fidelity prototypes can be developed using different tools and software, such as wireframing tools, interactive mock-up software or 3D printers. This allows the prototype to be viewed and evaluated from all angles, giving designers and stakeholders a better idea of how the final product will look and function. A mid-fidelity prototype often leads to new insights and perspectives.

Medium-fidelity prototypes are useful for testing and refining the functionality and interactions of the design. They can be used to conduct user testing, gather feedback from users and validate the user experience. Moreover, medium-fidelity prototypes are often cheaper and faster to produce than high-fidelity prototypes, making them ideal for use in the middle of the design process, when many changes can still occur.

What are high-fidelity prototypes?

High-fidelity prototypes are prototypes that are the most detailed, realistic and advanced of all prototypes. They include all visual, functional and technical aspects of the final product and are often produced using advanced software, tools and materials. High-fidelity prototypes give you the feeling of holding the finished product in your hands.

High-fidelity prototypes are used to test and validate the design in a realistic environment and to simulate the user experience as accurately as possible. They can be used to measure product performance, perform user testing and gather feedback from customers and stakeholders.

High-fidelity prototypes can take different forms, such as interactive web pages, software applications, physical models or 3D printed objects. They can also be used to test and validate the aesthetics, materials and workmanship of the product.

The disadvantage of high-fidelity prototypes is that they are often expensive and time-consuming to develop and produce. Therefore, they are usually used in the final stage of the design process, when the design has already been refined and the designer wants to check whether the product functions properly and meets the needs of customers and stakeholders.

Having your prototype made by Beeliners

To find out whether your idea is truly as good as you think, it’s wise to create a prototype. However, this can take a lot of time and may turn out to be more challenging than expected. Fortunately, you can have your prototype made by Beeliners!

When partnering with us, we’ll guide you through the entire process. We think along with you and work together to create your prototype.