Icon Library - UI Design

What are Figma Icons in UI/UX Design?

Icons are small symbols used to represent actions, information, or other elements within a user interface. They are graphic assets that stand as a way to help users instantly understand what concepts they convey. 

Figma icons are essential elements of a user interface and take part in building its visual language. They are simple, easy to recognize, and take the form of the object or action they represent. Images or symbols are perceived much faster than text, so UI icons have the ability to replace words and increase the user experience of a product. 

When To Use Figma Icons in UI/UX Design?

  • Use icons when representing navigation items – home, settings, menu, etc.
  • Use icons when representing action items – save, delete, share, etc.
  • Use icons when representing object items – documents, files, folders, etc. 
  • Use icons when representing status indicators – notifications, battery level, etc.
  • Use icons to bring attention to something specific – an announcement or error message.
  • Use icons to align with the text to provide information. 

Icon Design - Best Practices

  • Simple Is Better

Avoid complex UI icons, as this will increase visual noise and cognitive load – especially on smaller screens. 

Using simple Figma icons will increase clarity and legibility. The focus should be on helping users understand the concept it represents – not confuse them. 

  • Use Universal Icons

 Use universally recognizable icons whenever possible. Try to use symbols that visually represent the idea in the most basic way – instead of metaphorically. If an action can’t be represented in the literal sense, pick one that has a logical connection to the concept. For example, a profession like a musician can be conveyed through a microphone icon. 

With such icons, users can quickly understand an icon's purpose or function without looking at text explanations. This way, they provide a more intuitive and user-friendly interface. 

  • Prioritize the Functionality

When picking which icon to introduce in the UI design, prioritize the functionality and purpose rather than how nice it looks. While aesthetics are important, icons should primarily serve a functional role in user understanding and interaction within the interface. 

  • Be Consistent

Maintain visual consistency in the use of icons throughout the user interface. Make sure to be uniform in the visual style, size, and placement of icons to create an intuitive and easily recognizable design language. This way, it helps users build familiarity both with the design and the icons, increasing the user experience. 

Example of Figma Icons Designs

Country Flags Icons

Country flag icons are visual representations of national flags. They represent specific countries and are indicated through official flags' distinctive colors, patterns, or symbols.

Country flags are used as visual cues to allow them to select their preferred language or location and indicate the county-specific settings (currency, time zones, etc.). They are also used in travel websites to display specific flags to represent certain destinations or locations. 

Brand Logo Icons

Brand logos icons are graphic representations of well-known companies. They serve as visual branding elements that help users easily and faster recognize the company it is talked about in the user interface. Brand logos are used as clickable components that lead users to the brand’s home page. 

Use the Figma Icon Library in Your UI/UX Design With uinkits

Our uinkits system is a Figma Design System and UI Kits that include UI components that allow you, as a UI UX designer, to create your design products as quickly as pressing a button. You can find a full library of Figma icons and everything you need to create the perfect product design in Figma – all in just a few clicks. All you have to do is take the UI design component you need, and you’re ready to use it in your designs!

So, get your uinkits package and start designing now!