Design tokens vs Figma variables: A comprehensive guide
Design tokens and Figma variables are both powerful tools for creating and managing design systems. But what’s the difference between them? Which one should you use? And how do you get started?
In this blog post, we’ll take a deep dive into design tokens and Figma variables, and help you decide which one is right for you.
What are design tokens?
Design tokens are a set of reusable variables that represent the basic building blocks of a design system. They can include things like colors, fonts, sizes, spacing, and more.
Design tokens are typically defined in a central location, such as a JSON file or a style dictionary. This makes it easy to update the design system across all of your projects, without having to manually change each instance of a design token.
What are Figma variables?
Figma variables are a similar concept to design tokens, but they are specific to the Figma design tool. Figma variables allow you to create reusable values that can be applied to different elements in your design.
Figma variables can be used to store things like colors, fonts, sizes, and more. They can also be used to create complex expressions, such as calculating the width of a button based on its text content.
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Which one should you use?
Whether you should use design tokens or Figma variables depends on your specific needs. If you are working on a large design system that needs to be used across multiple projects, then design tokens are the better option.
Design tokens are more flexible and scalable than Figma variables. They can also be used with other tools, such as code editors and build tools.
However, if you are working on a small design system or if you are only using Figma, then Figma variables may be a good option. Figma variables are easy to use and they are integrated directly into the Figma design tool.
How to get started
If you are new to design tokens or Figma variables, there are a few things you can do to get started:
- Learn about design systems. Design systems are the foundation for design tokens and Figma variables. Before you start using design tokens or Figma variables, it’s important to understand what design systems are and how they work.
- Choose a design token or Figma variable tool. There are a number of different tools available for managing design tokens and Figma variables. Some popular options include Tokens Studio, Style Dictionary, and Specify.
- Define your design tokens or Figma variables. Once you have chosen a tool, you need to define your design tokens or Figma variables. This includes deciding what kind of design tokens or Figma variables you need and how you want to name them.
- Use your design tokens or Figma variables in your designs. Once you have defined your design tokens or Figma variables, you can start using them in your designs. This will help you to create consistent and reusable designs.
Here are some additional tips for using design tokens and Figma variables:
- Use a naming convention for your design tokens and Figma variables. This will make it easier to find and use the right design tokens and Figma variables in your designs.
- Document your design tokens and Figma variables. This will help you to understand what each design token and Figma variable does and how it should be used.
- Share your design tokens and Figma variables with your team. This will help everyone to create consistent designs.
Conclusion
Design tokens and Figma variables are both powerful tools for creating and managing design systems. The best tool for you will depend on your specific needs.
If you are working on a large design system or if you need to use design tokens with other tools, then design tokens are the better option. If you are working on a small design system or if you are only using Figma, then Figma variables may be a good option.
No matter which tool you choose, design tokens and Figma variables can help you to create consistent and reusable designs.
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