Skip to main content
achraf_azzez
achraf_azzez
March 16, 2024
Solved

When layout and when component?

Hi dear Figma community,
Wanted to know if there is a hard rule between using layout and using component.

When should I use one and not the other and why ?

    This topic has been closed for replies.
    djv
    djvSolution
    Community Support
    March 20, 2024

    Thanks for clarifying, @achraf_azzez!

    Auto layout is a property you can add to frames and components that lets you a create design that grow to fill, shrink to fit, or reflow as contents change.

    You’ll want to use Auto layout on a frame to accommodate things such as images or longer text strings to maintain alignment as your design continues to evolve.

    Again, a component is something like a button or icon that you intend to use over and over again throughout your design.

    In summary, auto layout is for alignment and keeping things looking neat inside your frames or components inside a frame. Components should be used as the different elements inside your design, such as your brand icon that you want to appear on every page.

    More info about auto layout and components is available here:

    Figma Learn - Help Center
    View in thread

    3 replies

    djv
    Figmate
    djv
    Community Support
    March 18, 2024

    Hey @achraf_azzez, thanks for reaching out!

    Components are elements you can reuse across your designs. They help to create and manage consistent designs across projects. You can create components from any layers or objects you’ve designed.

    By layout, are you referring to layout grids or auto layout?

    achraf_azzez
    achraf_azzezAuthor
    March 18, 2024

    Hello @dvaliao , thanks for your answer.
    In fact I’m looking to better clarify the difference between components and auto layout. Precisely, when should I choose to use auto layout rather than components.
    Regards

      djv
      Figmate
      djvSolution
      Community Support
      March 20, 2024

      Thanks for clarifying, @achraf_azzez!

      Auto layout is a property you can add to frames and components that lets you a create design that grow to fill, shrink to fit, or reflow as contents change.

      You’ll want to use Auto layout on a frame to accommodate things such as images or longer text strings to maintain alignment as your design continues to evolve.

      Again, a component is something like a button or icon that you intend to use over and over again throughout your design.

      In summary, auto layout is for alignment and keeping things looking neat inside your frames or components inside a frame. Components should be used as the different elements inside your design, such as your brand icon that you want to appear on every page.

      More info about auto layout and components is available here:

      Figma Learn - Help Center
      Terms & ConditionsAccessibility statement