Google Icon Ratings
Ruby Gifford ‘23 Features Editor
On October 26 of this year, Google began releasing redesigned icons for multiple applications on the Google Workspace (previously G Suite) platform. The sudden change left users confused, many of whom disapproved of the redesign. Why did the new Google icons get such a low approval rate?
There are many elements that contribute to how well-designed an icon is, but I’ve boiled them down to five categories:
Using these five categories and guides, I rated four categories of icons in the following order:
There are many elements that contribute to how well-designed an icon is, but I’ve boiled them down to five categories:
- Color/Shading: How are colors and shading used in the icon? Are they used well? Are they appropriate? Do they look good?
- Composition: Icons are usually simply shaped and balanced to make them look pleasant at such a small scale. How does the shape of the icon contribute to the icons’ design?
- Consistency: The key to a good icon is consistent and compatible elements throughout the design. Does the icon have conflicting elements?
- Expression: Different applications have different purposes so each icon will have a different message it’s trying to convey. How well does the icon convey that message?
- Ease: Is the design easy on the eyes? Is it memorable and functional?
Using these five categories and guides, I rated four categories of icons in the following order:
- Old Google Icons
- New Google Icons
- Other Program Icons
- Menu Icons