ToolVerified

Zeplin

Zeplin is a design handoff tool that bridges the gap between designers and developers by translating design files into measurements, CSS, and developer-friendly specs. It was one of the first purpose-built handoff tools and remains in use at companies where developer-designer collaboration needs structured specification workflows.

What is Zeplin?

Zeplin converts design files (Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD) into detailed developer specifications: pixel measurements, spacing values, CSS/Swift/Kotlin code snippets, colour tokens, typography details, and asset exports. It provides annotation tools, component documentation, and a design system interface. Teams use Zeplin to ensure developers build pixel-accurate implementations and reduce back-and-forth specification questions.

Why Zeplin matters for your career

Clear handoff documentation reduces the back-and-forth between design and development teams, significantly accelerating implementation. Zeplin's structured handoff workflow helps teams maintain quality and consistency as teams and complexity grow.

Career paths using Zeplin

Zeplin skills are relevant for UX Designer, Product Designer, and Frontend Developer roles at teams using structured handoff workflows. It's less universally used than Figma since Figma's Dev Mode has partially replicated its functionality.

No Zeplin challenges yet

Zeplin challenges are coming soon. Browse all challenges

No Zeplin positions yet

New Zeplin positions are added regularly. Browse all openings

Practice Zeplin with real-world challenges

Get AI-powered feedback on your work and connect directly with companies that are actively hiring Zeplin talent.

Get started free

Frequently asked questions

Is Zeplin still needed if we use Figma?▼

Figma Dev Mode (available in Figma Professional and above) has replicated many of Zeplin's handoff features, including CSS specs and code snippets. Many teams now use Figma exclusively. Zeplin remains relevant for teams with established workflows or multi-tool design pipelines.

What's the difference between Zeplin and Figma for handoff?▼

Zeplin was purpose-built for handoff with better annotation, versioning, and design system organisation. Figma Dev Mode is integrated directly into the design tool with less switching. The trade-offs are convenience (Figma) vs. specialised handoff features (Zeplin).