Frame vs Group in Figma: Key Differences and When to Use Each

In Figma, a Frame is a flexible container that supports layout grids, constraints, and scrolling, while a Group simply bundles layers without layout controls. Use Frames for structured design and responsive layouts, and Groups for quick layer organization.

Quick Comparison

This table summarizes the main differences between Frame and Group in Figma.

Feature	Frame	Group
Purpose	Container with layout and design controls	Simple layer bundling
Supports Layout Grids	Yes	No
Supports Constraints	Yes	No
Can Scroll	Yes	No
Can Have Background and Effects	Yes	No
Use Case	Responsive design and complex layouts	Quick grouping and moving layers

Key Differences

Frames in Figma act like artboards or sections that can hold other layers and provide advanced layout features. They support layout grids which help align and organize content consistently. Frames also allow you to set constraints on child elements, so they resize or reposition automatically when the frame size changes.

On the other hand, Groups are simple collections of layers combined for easier selection and movement. They do not support layout grids or constraints, and cannot have backgrounds or scrolling. Groups are useful for quick organization but lack the flexibility needed for responsive or complex designs.

In summary, use Frames when you need control over layout, resizing, and design structure. Use Groups when you just want to keep layers together temporarily without layout behavior.

Frame Example

This example shows how to create a Frame with a layout grid and constraints in Figma.

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1. Select the Frame tool (F) and draw a frame.
2. Add child elements inside the frame.
3. In the right panel, enable Layout Grid to add columns.
4. Set constraints on child elements to 'Left' and 'Top' to keep them fixed.
5. Resize the frame to see child elements adjust automatically.

Output

A resizable container with grid columns and child elements that reposition based on constraints.

Group Equivalent

This example shows how to group layers quickly in Figma.

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1. Select multiple layers.
2. Right-click and choose 'Group Selection' or press Ctrl+G (Cmd+G on Mac).
3. The layers are bundled together but keep their individual positions.
4. Move or transform the group as one unit without layout controls.

Output

A simple bundle of layers that move together but do not resize or have layout features.

When to Use Which

Choose Frame when you need structured layouts, responsive resizing, or want to use layout grids and scrolling areas. Frames are ideal for building UI components, screens, or sections that adapt to different sizes.

Choose Group when you want to quickly organize layers for easier selection or movement without needing layout behavior. Groups are best for temporary organization or simple layer bundling.

Key Takeaways

Frames support layout grids, constraints, and scrolling; groups do not.

Use frames for responsive and structured design layouts.

Use groups for quick, simple layer organization without layout control.

Frames can have backgrounds and effects; groups cannot.

Groups are temporary containers; frames are design building blocks.