MVP vs Prototype
A prototype demonstrates an idea, usually to internal stakeholders or in early user testing, while an MVP is the smallest version real customers can actually use or pay for, released to test demand. A prototype only has to be shown, an MVP has to be used, even when parts of it are run by hand.
MVP
An MVP (minimum viable product) is the smallest version of a product real customers can use, built to learn whether they want it before you build all of it.
Prototype
A prototype is a cheap, early stand in for a product or service, built to show people and learn what to fix before paying to build the real thing.
Internal team, investors, or a small test group
Real customers
Can be a mockup or partially working demo
Must let a customer really use it or pay for it, even if parts run by hand
Validate a concept or design direction
Validate real market demand and willingness to pay or use
| Audience | Internal team, investors, or a small test group | Real customers |
|---|---|---|
| Functionality | Can be a mockup or partially working demo | Must let a customer really use it or pay for it, even if parts run by hand |
| Goal | Validate a concept or design direction | Validate real market demand and willingness to pay or use |