Isometric icons: definition, key characteristics, uses, examples, and creation process

Isometric icons are digital icons that depict objects in a stylized 3D illusion view with parallel lines, lacking perspective distortion.

The key characteristics of isometric icons are equal foreshortening, 30-degree angles, 120-degree angles, parallel lines, absence of perspective, and dimensional representation.

Isometric icons are typically used in user interfaces (web and mobile), infographics and presentations, branding and logos, landing pages and hero images, maps and wayfinding systems, technical illustrations and manuals, and gaming.

What are isometric icons?

Isometric icons are two-dimensional graphical symbols that create the visual illusion of three dimensions. The term “isometric” originates from Greek, meaning “equal measure,” and refers to the consistent scaling used along all three axes of the depicted object, ensuring no visual distortion of dimensions.

While they provide a 3D appearance, this distinct visual approach classifies them as a specific icon style. It’s important to note that isometric icons are different from true 3D renderings, which involve more complex modeling and rendering techniques.

The basis of isometric design lies in axonometric projection, a type of orthographic projection used to represent three-dimensional objects on a two-dimensional plane. Specifically, “isometric” projection means that the three coordinate axes appear equally shortened, and the angles between any two of them are precisely 120 degrees.

This exactness results in images that maintain consistent proportions, even allowing for direct measurements to be taken from the visual representation.

What are the key characteristics of isometric icons?

Isometric icon characteristics: equal foreshortening, 30 and 120 degree angles, parallel lines, no perspective, dimensional.

The key characteristics of isometric icons are listed below.

Equal foreshortening: All three axes of the object are shortened by the same proportion, creating a balanced three-dimensional view.
30-degree angles: Non-vertical lines in isometric icons are typically drawn at 30-degree angles relative to the horizontal base.
120-degree angles: The angles formed between each of the three principal axes in an isometric projection are consistently 120 degrees.
Parallel lines: Lines that are parallel in the actual object remain parallel in the two-dimensional isometric representation.
Absence of perspective: Isometric icons do not employ a vanishing point, meaning objects do not appear to get smaller with distance.
Dimensional representation: These icons illustrate the height, width, and depth of an object, providing a three-dimensional representation on a two-dimensional plane.

Where are isometric icons typically used?

Isometric icons are typically used as listed below.

User interfaces (web and mobile): Used as navigation elements to provide a visually engaging and slightly three-dimensional feel to websites and mobile applications.
Infographics and presentations: Add visual interest and depth to data representation, making information more engaging and easier to understand.
Branding and logos: Create unique and memorable visual identities that stand out due to their distinctive three-dimensional perspective.
Landing pages and hero images: Capture the attention of website visitors with their eye-catching and visually appealing three-dimensional style.
Maps and wayfinding systems: Offer a more realistic and intuitive representation of locations and spatial relationships, aiding in navigation.
Technical illustrations and manuals: Effectively illustrate complex systems, assembly steps, and product features with a clear and understandable three-dimensional view.
Gaming: Create pseudo-3D environments and represent in-game objects and elements with a distinct visual style.

When should you use isometric icons?

You should use isometric icons to add depth and visual interest to your designs. They are particularly suitable when you need to convey more detail than a flat icon can offer or when aiming to simplify complex information through a visually engaging representation. Isometric icons can contribute to a modern look and effectively showcase all angles of a product or concept.

They prove especially useful in contexts like DIY instructions and technical explanations, where a bird’s-eye view or a three-dimensional perspective can significantly enhance understanding. In user interfaces, isometric icons can make individual icons stand out and grab the user’s attention.

Ultimately, the decision to incorporate isometric icons should be based on your specific communication objectives and whether this style effectively serves the purpose of conveying your intended message.

What are the pros and cons of using isometric icons?

The pros of using isometric icons are listed below.

Enhanced visual appeal and clarity: Isometric icons add depth and a 3D quality, making complex information easier to understand.
Efficiently show multiple perspectives: They allow viewers to see the top, sides, and front of an object without appearing cluttered.
Versatile and brand-enhancing: Suitable for various applications, they can help establish a memorable and unique brand identity.
Technical advantages: They often result in smaller file sizes compared to fully rendered 3D graphics while maintaining accurate measurements.

The cons of using isometric icons are listed below.

Potential for cartoonish or distorted appearance: The lack of true perspective can make objects look unrealistic or not suitable for all brand aesthetics.
Risk of clutter and misinterpretation: Overly complex designs can become confusing, and non-intuitive viewing angles might lead to misinterpretations.
Challenges with certain shapes and depth perception: Representing curved objects can be difficult, and the limited sense of depth might affect spatial understanding.
Time-consuming creation and scaling issues: Complex isometric designs require meticulous work, and ensuring accurate scaling between elements can be challenging.

What are some examples of isometric icons?

Some examples of isometric icons are listed below.

Isometric house: A depiction of a house shown from a top-down, angled perspective, revealing its roof and two sides.
Isometric office building: A building rendered with parallel lines and equal angles, showing its structure in a 3D-like manner.
Isometric laptop: A laptop icon where the keyboard, screen, and side ports are all visible from an elevated angle.
Isometric delivery truck: A truck icon shown at an angle, highlighting its cargo bed and cabin.
Isometric stack of books: Several books piled on top of each other, viewed from a consistent 30-degree angle.
Isometric smartphone: A phone icon that displays its screen and side buttons in a slightly rotated view.
Isometric city skyline: Multiple buildings of varying heights shown from an isometric perspective to create a miniature cityscape.
Isometric data server: A server rack or computer tower depicted with its components visible from an angled viewpoint.
Isometric plant or tree: A plant or tree icon rendered to show its leaves or branches in a three-dimensional style.
Isometric user avatar: A character or figure shown from an angled perspective, often used for profile representations.

How do you create isometric icons?

Creating isometric icons: understand projection, use vector software, set grid, start 2D, extrude, overlap, consistent lines.

You create isometric icons by following the step-by-step guide below.

Understand isometric projection: Before you begin, grasp the concept of isometric projection. In isometric view, all three axes appear equally foreshortened, and the angles between any two axes are 120 degrees. For icon creation, this often translates to using 30-degree angles for vertical edges and lines receding into the distance.
Choose a vector graphics editor: Select a vector-based software like Adobe Illustrator, Sketch, Figma, or Inkscape. These programs provide the precision needed for creating accurate isometric shapes.
Set up an isometric grid: The key to creating accurate isometric icons is using an isometric grid. Many vector editors allow you to create or import custom grids. You can also achieve a pseudo-isometric effect by rotating and skewing shapes. Search for tutorials specific to your software on how to set up an isometric grid or create an isometric transformation.
Start with basic 2D shapes: Begin by drawing the foundational 2D shapes that will form the basis of your 3D icon. Think about the front, top, and side views of your object.
Extrude shapes along isometric axes: Using your isometric grid as a guide, extrude or transform these 2D shapes to give them depth. This typically involves moving and duplicating edges or faces along the isometric angles (often 30 degrees). For example, to create an isometric cube from a square, you would duplicate two of its sides and move them diagonally at a 30-degree angle.
Create overlapping planes: Build more complex forms by layering and overlapping these extruded shapes. Pay attention to how different planes intersect and ensure that the lines align correctly according to the isometric perspective.
Pay attention to visual hierarchy: Use overlapping and the placement of elements to create a sense of depth and visual hierarchy in your icon. Objects that are meant to appear closer to the viewer should typically overlap those that are further away.
Use consistent line weights (optional): If you choose to use outlines for your isometric icons, maintain a consistent stroke weight throughout. This will help create a clean and unified look.
Choose a consistent lighting style (optional): While true 3D rendering involves complex lighting, you can imply depth and form in isometric icons by adding simple highlights and shadows. Choose a consistent light source direction and apply subtle shading to the visible faces of your objects.
Keep colors simple: A limited and consistent color palette often works best for isometric icons. Consider using flat colors or subtle gradients to enhance the three-dimensional effect without making the icon too visually busy.
Test at different sizes: Once your isometric icon is complete, view it at various sizes to ensure it remains clear and recognizable. Adjust the level of detail or line weights if necessary.
Export in vector format: As with other icon types, it’s best to export your isometric icons in a vector format like SVG. This will allow them to be scaled without any loss of quality, making them suitable for a wide range of applications.