When to use a Modal vs. when to use a Pane

At Neeto, we use both Modals and Panes to present secondary content. While they may seem interchangeable, each serves a distinct purpose. Choosing the right one ensures a smooth and intuitive experience for users.

What’s the Difference?

Modal

• Appears centered on the screen

• Commands immediate attention

• Ideal for focused tasks or critical interactions

Pane

• Slides in from the right

• Feels less intrusive

• Best for extended workflows

Use a Modal when:

• Confirmations (e.g., "Delete theme?")

• Critical decisions (e.g., irreversible actions)

💡 Keep modals concise. Avoid using them for complex forms or lengthy content.

Use a Pane when:

• Viewing or editing detailed information

• Multi-step or longer forms

• Configuration workflows

💡 Panes obscure the background but support workflows that are non-disruptive and often vertically longer than modals.

Still unsure?

Ask yourself: