Comparison

Uploading vs Downloading

Uploading sends a file into an app, while downloading saves a file from an app to a device.

Also called Upload vs downloadAdd or save a fileSend or get a file

Visual Example

Uploading

Choose file

Downloading

Download CSV

Report.csv ready

How to Tell Them Apart

Uploading moves a file up into the product.

Downloading moves a file down to the person’s device.

Quick Decision

They are confused because both move files, but the direction is opposite.

Use Uploading When

Uploading

Use uploading when the file starts on the person's device and needs to go into the app.

 Use Downloading When

Downloading

Use downloading when the file starts in the app and needs to be saved to the person's device.
Back to UploadingBack to Downloading

What It Is Used For

  • File attachments
  • Imports and exports
  • Generated reports

Example User Phrasing

  • "Let users upload a profile photo."
  • "Add a button to download the CSV."