Create prototypes for any platform

A prototype is a design or mock-up of something you want to build that’s more detailed than a starting point. To prototype means to build a sample of the product, app, website, page, or tool and test it out if the model works and/or follows the intended process or function.

Getting that prototype right is important, so we got you covered with templates for prototypes for desktop, mobile or tablet use. No design experience needed to start.

Creating a prototype helps give you an idea of the final look of a design and helps you understand and troubleshoot problems. Canva Prototypes provide an easy and low-cost way of designing a professional-looking prototype for any idea–from websites, apps, landing pages, and more.

Prototypes can be created to model, solve or test anything and there are many different types out there. Paper prototypes, for example, begin by being drawn by hand. Digital prototypes, however, are computer-generated so they tend to be a little more realistic to the end design.

Low Fidelity prototypes (or wireframes) are quickly done, just to get a good idea of the bigger picture. On the other hand, High Fidelity prototypes are complete representations of the end goal, so they are more realistic and detailed. Think content, typography, colors, and branding, they are all included in High Fidelity prototypes.

Firstly, they are all different stages of the design flow. The big difference is the amount of detail they have, so think of them as low to medium to high. On the low end is a wireframe—which is just the starting point for a design. A mockup is a more realistic end result, but still lower in detail. A prototype is the end goal, so it’s something that details how a user might interact with your design.

To make them a bit easier to find, prototypes are now available under the ‘For You’ tab on your Canva homepage. You can also search the general term ‘prototype’ or specific prototype categories including desktop prototype, mobile prototype and tablet prototype. Once you select the prototype that suits you, get started and customize to your needs!