20 best books on ux design – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you looking to expand your knowledge on UX design and stay ahead of the curve? Look no further! In this article, we have compiled a list of the 20 best books on UX design that will take your skills to the next level. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced professional, these books cover a wide range of topics and offer valuable insights from industry experts. So, grab a cup of coffee and get ready to dive into the world of UX design!


The Design of Everyday Things

by Don Norman

The Design of Everyday Things Overview

The Design of Everyday Things Overview

The Design of Everyday Things by Don Norman is a highly influential book on UX design, offering a fascinating exploration into the world of design and how it impacts our daily lives. With its insightful anecdotes and thought-provoking concepts, it has become a staple read for designers and non-designers alike.

This book about UX design delves into the fundamental principles of user-centered design and the importance of creating products that are intuitive, efficient, and enjoyable to use. Don Norman, a renowned cognitive scientist and design advocate, takes readers on a journey through the psychology of human behavior, revealing why certain designs succeed while others fail.

Through captivating examples and case studies, Norman shines a light on the common design pitfalls that plague everyday objects, from poorly designed doors to confusing interfaces. He emphasizes the significance of affordances, the perceived and actual properties of an object that determine how it can be used, and argues that good design should minimize the gap between a user’s intentions and the system’s behavior.

Whether you’re an experienced designer or simply curious about the world of UX design, this UX design book offers valuable insights and practical advice. Norman’s witty writing style and knack for storytelling make it an engaging and accessible read, while his expertise ensures that the lessons learned can be applied to a wide range of design challenges.

Ultimately, The Design of Everyday Things serves as a reminder that design is not solely about aesthetics but about understanding and meeting the needs of users. By embracing the principles outlined in this book, designers can create products that enhance everyday experiences and improve the overall quality of life for everyone.

Don’t Make Me Think

by Steve Krug

Don’t Make Me Think by Steve Krug is a game-changing book on user experience design. If you’re looking for a comprehensive and engaging read about the fascinating world of UX design, then this book is a must-have. Krug takes a refreshingly straightforward approach, using plain language and practical examples to demystify the complexities of designing intuitive and user-friendly interfaces.

With its witty tone and relatable anecdotes, this book about UX design feels more like a conversation with a knowledgeable friend than a dry textbook. Krug emphasizes the importance of simplicity, advocating for the principle that websites and applications should be so intuitive that users don’t have to think twice to navigate them.

Whether you’re a seasoned UX designer or just starting out, this UX design book will equip you with valuable insights and practical techniques to improve the usability of your designs. Krug’s mantra of “don’t make me think” will become your guiding principle as you strive to create seamless and enjoyable user experiences.

Lean UX

by Jeff Gothelf and Josh Seiden

Lean UX, written by Jeff Gothelf and Josh Seiden, is a captivating book on UX design that takes a fresh and innovative approach to the field. With a focus on collaboration and rapid experimentation, this book about UX design challenges traditional methods and introduces a more agile and efficient process.

Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products

by Nir Eyal

Are you ready to dive into the fascinating world of creating habit-forming products? Look no further than Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products by Nir Eyal. This groundbreaking book on UX design is a must-read for anyone looking to understand the psychology behind building addictive and engaging experiences.

Sprint: How to Solve Big Problems and Test New Ideas in Just Five Days

by Jake Knapp

Sprint: How to Solve Big Problems and Test New Ideas in Just Five Days by Jake Knapp is a game-changing book about user experience design. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to tackle big challenges and innovate quickly.

This book is not your typical dry, technical read. It’s a fast-paced, engaging guide that takes you through the step-by-step process of running a sprint—a five-day process that helps teams solve problems and test ideas in a short amount of time.

Knapp, a design partner at Google Ventures, shares his invaluable insights and strategies that he’s developed through years of experience. He breaks down the sprint process into easy-to-understand stages, giving you practical tips and real-life examples along the way.

Whether you’re a designer, entrepreneur, or team leader, this book will teach you how to work smarter, not harder. It will show you how to bring your team together, focus on the most important challenges, and rapidly prototype and test your ideas.

Sprint is not just a book about UX design—it’s a game plan for success. It will help you overcome the fear of failure and embrace a culture of experimentation and learning. By the end of the five-day sprint, you’ll have a clear path forward and the confidence to tackle any challenge that comes your way.

If you’re ready to supercharge your problem-solving skills and unleash your creativity, then Sprint is the book for you. Get ready to revolutionize the way you approach big problems and test new ideas. It’s time to sprint towards success!

Designing for Interaction

by Dan Saffer

Are you looking for a captivating book on the art of crafting exceptional user experiences? Look no further! Designing for Interaction by Dan Saffer is a must-read for anyone curious about the world of UX design. This gem of a book delves deep into the intricacies of creating meaningful interactions between users and digital products.

Designing for Interaction is not just another book about UX design; it’s a treasure trove of insights, ideas, and practical techniques that will empower you to craft truly delightful user experiences. Saffer’s writing style is engaging and accessible, making it a breeze to absorb the wealth of knowledge he shares.

Whether you’re a seasoned UX designer or just starting out, this UX design book will equip you with the tools you need to excel in your craft. Saffer explores various aspects of interaction design, from understanding user needs and behavior to creating intuitive interfaces and designing for different contexts.

Through real-world examples and case studies, Saffer illustrates the principles and best practices of UX design, helping you develop a solid foundation in the field. He also introduces new concepts and approaches that push the boundaries of traditional UX design, inspiring you to think outside the box and innovate.

So, if you’re passionate about creating user-centered digital experiences that leave a lasting impact, grab a copy of Designing for Interaction. This UX design book will ignite your creativity, challenge your thinking, and set you on a path towards becoming a master of crafting exceptional interactions.

The Elements of User Experience

by Jesse James Garrett

The Elements of User Experience: A Must-Read Book on UX Design

If you’re searching for a comprehensive and enlightening book about UX design, look no further than Jesse James Garrett’s masterpiece, “The Elements of User Experience”. This gem of a book will take you on an exciting journey through the world of user experience design, unraveling its intricacies and shedding light on the essential elements that shape exceptional digital experiences.

In this UX design book, Garrett skillfully breaks down the entire user experience design process into five distinct planes, each playing a crucial role in creating a seamless and delightful user experience. From the strategic and conceptual planning on the surface, to the nitty-gritty details of interaction and information design beneath, every aspect of UX design is explored and explained.

Garrett’s writing style is engaging and accessible, making complex concepts easy to grasp for both beginners and seasoned professionals. Through real-world examples and case studies, he illustrates how different elements of UX design come together to form cohesive and intuitive digital products.

Whether you’re a designer, developer, product manager, or simply someone interested in understanding the magic behind exceptional user experiences, this UX design book is an invaluable resource. It will equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to create user-centric designs that not only meet users’ needs but also evoke delight and loyalty.

So, if you’re ready to dive deep into the world of UX design and uncover the secrets of crafting remarkable digital experiences, “The Elements of User Experience” is the perfect companion for your journey. Get your hands on this essential book and start transforming your design approach today!

Information Architecture: For the Web and Beyond

by Louis Rosenfeld and Peter Morville

Information Architecture: For the Web and Beyond is a captivating book on the art of organizing and structuring information in a way that enhances user experience and usability. Written by Louis Rosenfeld and Peter Morville, this masterpiece delves deep into the world of information architecture, providing invaluable insights and practical techniques for professionals in the field of user experience design.

Whether you’re a seasoned UX designer or just starting out in the industry, this book about UX design is a must-read. It explores the fundamental concepts of information architecture and how they can be applied not only to web design but also to other domains like mobile apps, software interfaces, and even physical spaces. The authors take you on an enlightening journey, explaining the importance of organizing information effectively and how it can greatly impact the overall user experience.

Through real-world examples and case studies, Rosenfeld and Morville demonstrate how information architecture influences the way users navigate and interact with digital products. They provide practical tips on creating intuitive navigation systems, designing user-friendly interfaces, and conducting user research to inform your IA decisions. They also discuss the role of content strategy and how it intertwines with information architecture to deliver cohesive and meaningful user experiences.

This UX design book covers a wide range of topics, including taxonomy and classification, search functionality, usability testing, and the importance of collaboration and communication within multidisciplinary teams. It emphasizes the iterative nature of information architecture, encouraging designers to continuously refine and improve their IA solutions based on user feedback and evolving business requirements.

Information Architecture: For the Web and Beyond is a comprehensive and thought-provoking book that will ignite your passion for creating exceptional user experiences. Whether you’re a web designer, UX researcher, content strategist, or simply someone interested in the fascinating world of information architecture, this book will undoubtedly expand your knowledge and inspire you to think critically about how information is organized and presented to users.

About Face: The Essentials of Interaction Design

by Alan Cooper, Robert Reimann, and David Cronin

About Face: The Essentials of Interaction Design is a groundbreaking book on user experience design, written by the trio of Alan Cooper, Robert Reimann, and David Cronin. This comprehensive and engaging guide is a must-read for anyone interested in the world of UX design.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out in the field, this book will equip you with the essential knowledge and skills needed to create user-centered designs that truly delight and engage users. It covers everything from understanding user needs and behavior to creating intuitive and effective interfaces.

What sets this book apart is its emphasis on the human aspect of design. It goes beyond just the technical aspects and delves into the psychology behind user interactions. By understanding how users think and behave, you’ll be able to design experiences that are not only visually appealing but also highly usable and enjoyable.

The authors use real-world examples and case studies to illustrate their concepts, making the book both informative and practical. They also provide a wealth of practical tips and techniques that you can immediately apply to your own design projects.

So whether you’re a designer, developer, product manager, or anyone involved in the creation of digital products, About Face: The Essentials of Interaction Design is a must-have in your UX design toolkit. Dive in and discover the key principles and techniques that will elevate your designs to the next level.

UX Strategy: How to Devise Innovative Digital Products that People Want

by Jaime Levy

Looking for a game-changing book on UX design? Look no further than “UX Strategy: How to Devise Innovative Digital Products that People Want” by Jaime Levy. This captivating read takes you on a journey into the world of user experience, providing valuable insights on how to create products that users truly desire.

Levy, a renowned expert in the field, breaks down the complex process of UX design into easily digestible concepts. She emphasizes the importance of understanding user needs and aligning them with business goals to drive successful innovation. Through real-life case studies and practical examples, she demonstrates how a well-executed UX strategy can lead to remarkable digital products.

What sets this book about UX design apart is its emphasis on the intersection of business and design. Levy stresses the need for collaboration between designers, engineers, marketers, and executives to create products that not only meet user expectations but also achieve business objectives. By adopting a holistic approach, she shows how organizations can gain a competitive edge in the digital landscape.

Levy’s writing style is engaging and accessible, making this UX design book suitable for both beginners and seasoned professionals. She demystifies complex concepts, providing step-by-step frameworks and practical exercises to guide you through the process of crafting a winning UX strategy.

If you’re looking to elevate your understanding of UX design and learn how to develop innovative digital products that truly resonate with users, “UX Strategy” is the definitive resource you need. Whether you’re a designer, product manager, or entrepreneur, this book will equip you with the knowledge and tools to create compelling and user-centered experiences. Get ready to revolutionize your approach to UX design and unleash your full creative potential!

The User Experience Team of One: A Research and Design Survival Guide

by Leah Buley

The User Experience Team of One: A Research and Design Survival Guide by Leah Buley is a fantastic book on UX design that provides invaluable insights and practical advice for those working solo in the field. Whether you’re a one-person team or simply looking to enhance your skills as a UX designer, this book is a must-read.

In this comprehensive guide, Buley explores the challenges faced by solo UX designers and offers strategies to overcome them. She emphasizes the importance of being a versatile and adaptable team of one, capable of conducting research, designing interfaces, and collaborating with stakeholders effectively.

Throughout the book, Buley shares a wealth of knowledge and provides step-by-step instructions on various UX techniques, such as creating user personas, conducting user interviews, and prototyping. She also offers tips on how to prioritize tasks, manage your time efficiently, and advocate for user-centered design within an organization.

What sets this book apart is its emphasis on the practical realities of working as a solo UX designer. Buley acknowledges the resource constraints and time limitations that often come with this role and provides practical advice on how to navigate these challenges. She also offers insights into the soft skills needed to succeed, such as communication, persuasion, and storytelling.

Overall, The User Experience Team of One is a highly engaging and informative book about UX design that is sure to resonate with solo designers, freelancers, and anyone looking to enhance their skills in the field. Buley’s expertise and practical approach make this book a valuable resource for both beginners and experienced professionals in the UX industry.

Designing Interfaces: Patterns for Effective Interaction Design

by Jenifer Tidwell

Designing Interfaces: Patterns for Effective Interaction Design by Jenifer Tidwell is a fantastic book on UX design that every designer should have in their collection. This comprehensive guide explores the art and science of creating user-friendly interfaces that engage and delight users.

Whether you’re a seasoned designer or just starting out in the world of UX design, this book about UX design is packed with valuable insights and practical tips to help you create intuitive and compelling interfaces. Tidwell breaks down complex concepts into easy-to-understand patterns, making it accessible for designers of all skill levels.

With beautiful illustrations and real-world examples, this UX design book takes you on a journey through the entire design process, from understanding user needs to prototyping and testing your interface. Tidwell’s approach is grounded in user-centered design principles, ensuring that your interfaces are not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly usable.

Whether you’re designing for web, mobile, or desktop applications, this book on UX design is a valuable resource that will inspire and empower you to create interfaces that truly resonate with your users. So, if you’re looking to level up your UX design skills, grab a copy of Designing Interfaces: Patterns for Effective Interaction Design and start creating delightful user experiences today!

UX for Lean Startups: Faster, Smarter User Experience Research and Design

by Laura Klein

Are you looking for a game-changing book on UX design? Look no further! Laura Klein’s “UX for Lean Startups: Faster, Smarter User Experience Research and Design” is the ultimate guide for anyone interested in creating impactful user experiences.

This book about UX design is a treasure trove of practical insights and strategies that will turbocharge your product development process. Klein’s expertise shines through as she breaks down complex concepts into simple, actionable steps.

Whether you’re a seasoned UX designer or just starting out, this UX design book will equip you with the tools and techniques you need to deliver exceptional user experiences. Klein emphasizes the importance of conducting efficient user research and shares invaluable tips for gathering meaningful insights.

But what sets this book apart from the rest is its focus on lean methodologies. Klein shows you how to integrate UX design seamlessly into your startup’s agile development process. By adopting lean principles, you’ll be able to iterate quickly and make data-driven design decisions.

Forget about long, drawn-out design cycles that drain your resources. With “UX for Lean Startups,” you’ll learn how to optimize your user experience in the most efficient and cost-effective way possible.

So, if you’re ready to take your UX design game to the next level, grab a copy of this UX design book and get ready to revolutionize your product development process. Your users will thank you!

The UX Book: Process and Guidelines for Ensuring a Quality User Experience

by Rex Hartson and Pardha Pyla

The UX Book: Process and Guidelines for Ensuring a Quality User Experience is a comprehensive and insightful guide for anyone interested in the fascinating world of user experience design. If you’re seeking a deep dive into the realm of creating user-friendly and intuitive digital products, this book on UX design is an absolute must-read.

Written by the renowned experts Rex Hartson and Pardha Pyla, this book about UX design provides a step-by-step process and a set of proven guidelines to help you craft exceptional user experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned UX professional or just starting out in the field, the authors’ expertise and wealth of knowledge will undoubtedly inspire and enlighten you.

Through a combination of theoretical explanations, practical examples, and real-world case studies, this UX design book covers everything you need to know about designing interfaces that users will love. From understanding user needs and conducting usability tests to creating wireframes and prototypes, Hartson and Pyla leave no stone unturned.

The book’s engaging writing style and visually appealing layout make it a joy to read and absorb the invaluable insights within its pages. With each chapter, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the principles and processes behind successful user experience design, empowering you to create products that truly resonate with your target audience.

Whether you’re a UX designer, a product manager, or anyone involved in the creation of digital products, this book on UX design will undoubtedly become your go-to resource. So, grab a copy, immerse yourself in the world of user experience design, and unlock the secrets to creating exceptional digital experiences.

Designing with the Mind in Mind: Simple Guide to Understanding User Interface Design Rules

by Jeff Johnson

Are you ready to dive into the fascinating world of user experience design? Look no further than “Designing with the Mind in Mind: Simple Guide to Understanding User Interface Design Rules” by Jeff Johnson. This captivating book on UX design is the perfect companion for anyone looking to create intuitive and user-friendly interfaces.

Johnson takes a unique approach by exploring the psychology behind user interface design. He delves into how our brains process information, make decisions, and interact with digital environments. By understanding these cognitive processes, designers can craft interfaces that align seamlessly with users’ mental models.

What sets this book about UX design apart is its simplicity. Johnson breaks down complex concepts into easy-to-understand principles and guidelines. Whether you’re a seasoned designer or just starting out, you’ll find practical advice and real-world examples that will enhance your UX design skills.

With chapters covering topics such as visual perception, attention, memory, and learning, this UX design book provides a comprehensive overview of the key factors that influence user experience. Johnson’s writing style is engaging and accessible, making it a pleasure to read and absorb the valuable insights he shares.

So, if you’re ready to take your UX design skills to the next level, “Designing with the Mind in Mind” is the book for you. Get ready to unlock the secrets of user interface design and create interfaces that truly resonate with your users.

100 Things Every Designer Needs to Know About People

by Susan Weinschenk

Are you a designer looking to delve into the fascinating world of user experience? Look no further! “100 Things Every Designer Needs to Know About People” by Susan Weinschenk is the ultimate guide for anyone seeking to enhance their understanding of the human psyche and its impact on design. This captivating book on UX design offers invaluable insights into how people think, feel, and behave, equipping you with the knowledge needed to create truly user-centric designs. With its engaging writing style and practical tips, this book about UX design is a must-read for anyone passionate about creating meaningful and impactful experiences for users. Get ready to unlock the secrets of human psychology and revolutionize your design approach with this insightful UX design book.

The Mobile Frontier: A Guide for Designing Mobile Experiences

by Rachel Hinman

The Mobile Frontier: A Guide for Designing Mobile Experiences by Rachel Hinman is a captivating book on the ever-evolving world of mobile design. This insightful guide takes readers on a journey through the mobile frontier, offering invaluable insights and practical tips for creating exceptional user experiences.

With its engaging writing style and comprehensive approach, this book about UX design is a must-read for anyone looking to master the art of mobile design. Hinman explores the unique challenges and opportunities that mobile devices present, providing a wealth of knowledge that can be applied to any design project.

Throughout the book, Hinman emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding the needs of mobile users. She offers a variety of frameworks and methodologies for conducting user research, allowing designers to gain a deep understanding of their target audience.

One of the standout features of The Mobile Frontier is its emphasis on prototyping and iteration. Hinman guides readers through the process of creating and refining mobile designs, encouraging them to embrace a user-centered approach and constantly iterate based on user feedback.

Whether you’re a seasoned designer or just starting out in the field, this UX design book is a valuable resource. It covers everything from designing for different screen sizes and resolutions to creating intuitive navigation and engaging interactions.

In summary, The Mobile Frontier: A Guide for Designing Mobile Experiences is an essential read for anyone looking to stay ahead in the fast-paced world of mobile design. With its practical advice, real-world examples, and engaging writing style, this book is sure to inspire and inform designers of all levels.

Designing for the Digital Age: How to Create Human-Centered Products and Services

by Kim Goodwin

Designing for the Digital Age: How to Create Human-Centered Products and Services by Kim Goodwin is an exceptional book on UX design. It offers valuable insights and practical advice for anyone involved in creating digital experiences.

Goodwin’s book about UX design emphasizes the importance of putting the user at the center of the design process. She advocates for a human-centered approach that focuses on understanding users’ needs, goals, and behaviors. By taking the time to truly empathize with users, designers can create products and services that are intuitive, enjoyable, and impactful.

Throughout the book, Goodwin guides readers through the different stages of the design process, from conducting user research to prototyping and testing. She offers a wealth of techniques and tools that can be applied to a wide range of projects, ensuring that designers have the necessary skills to create meaningful experiences for their users.

One of the key strengths of this UX design book is its emphasis on collaboration and communication. Goodwin stresses the importance of involving stakeholders and team members throughout the design process, ensuring that everyone’s perspectives and expertise are taken into account. This collaborative approach not only leads to better outcomes but also fosters a shared understanding and ownership of the design solution.

Overall, Designing for the Digital Age is a comprehensive and practical guide for anyone looking to create human-centered products and services. Whether you’re a seasoned UX designer or just starting your journey in the field, this book is sure to provide valuable insights and inspiration to elevate your design practice.

UX Research: Practical Techniques for Designing Better Products

by Brad Nunnally and David Farkas

Are you ready to dive into the fascinating world of user experience design? Look no further, because “UX Research: Practical Techniques for Designing Better Products” is here to guide you on your journey. This insightful book, written by Brad Nunnally and David Farkas, is a treasure trove of knowledge for anyone interested in creating exceptional user experiences.

Whether you’re a seasoned UX designer or just starting out, this book has something for everyone. It explores various practical techniques that will help you understand your users better and design products that truly meet their needs. From conducting user interviews and usability testing to creating effective personas and journey maps, Nunnally and Farkas cover it all.

But what sets this book apart from others in the field? Well, it’s not just a dry textbook filled with theories and methodologies. Instead, the authors take a hands-on approach, providing real-world examples and case studies that bring the concepts to life. They guide you through each step of the research process, offering valuable tips and tricks along the way.

One of the standout features of “UX Research” is its emphasis on collaboration. Nunnally and Farkas stress the importance of involving stakeholders and team members in the research process, promoting a holistic and user-centered approach to design. They also address common challenges and provide strategies for overcoming them, ensuring that you’re well-equipped to navigate any obstacles that may arise.

So, whether you’re looking to enhance your existing UX skills or embark on a new career path, “UX Research: Practical Techniques for Designing Better Products” is the ultimate companion. It’s not just a book about UX design; it’s a roadmap to creating exceptional user experiences that will delight and inspire.

The User’s Journey: Storymapping Products That People Love

by Donna Lichaw

The User’s Journey: Storymapping Products That People Love by Donna Lichaw is a captivating book on UX design that delves into the art of creating products that users truly adore. Lichaw takes readers on a journey through the process of storymapping, a technique that combines storytelling and UX design to craft seamless user experiences.

This remarkable book about UX design emphasizes the importance of storytelling in product development, highlighting how narrative structures can engage users on a deeper level. By using relatable storytelling techniques, Lichaw demonstrates how to create meaningful connections between users and products, ultimately leading to enhanced user satisfaction and loyalty.

With comprehensive insights and practical examples, this UX design book provides valuable guidance for both seasoned professionals and aspiring designers. Lichaw’s storytelling approach to UX design offers a fresh perspective, encouraging designers to think beyond functionality and focus on creating compelling narratives that captivate users.

Whether you are new to UX design or a seasoned practitioner, The User’s Journey: Storymapping Products That People Love is an essential read that will inspire you to think creatively and reshape the way you approach designing products. Dive into this captivating book and unlock the secrets of crafting products that users will truly love.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 best books about UX design are essential resources for both beginners and experienced professionals in the field. Whether you want to delve into the fundamentals of user experience or explore advanced techniques, these books offer valuable insights and practical advice. From “The Design of Everyday Things” to “Don’t Make Me Think,” each book provides unique perspectives and strategies to enhance your understanding and application of UX design principles. So, pick up a copy and embark on a journey to master the art of creating exceptional user experiences!