Imagine searching for a product on Amazon without filters. You’d drown in irrelevant results, right? For SaaS applications, a good filter UI design is just as critical. It helps users find exactly what they need — fast, efficiently, and without frustration.
Whether it's managing tasks, browsing analytics, or shopping, the filter section website UI is where users interact to refine results. Yet, designing effective filters is tricky. Overcomplicate them, and you lose users. Oversimplify, and you fail to deliver value.
This guide will walk you through the best filter UX/UI examples, practical design patterns, and expert strategies tailored for SaaS products. We’ll also cover common dilemmas, solutions, and UI/UX design services tips to help your app convert and retain more users.
What is a Filter in UX/UI? (And Why SaaS Apps Can’t Ignore It)
A filter in UX/UI refers to a design component that allows users to refine or narrow down large datasets, search results, or content lists by applying specific criteria. Think of it as a digital sieve that helps users cut through the clutter and find exactly what they’re looking for—quickly and effortlessly.
In the context of SaaS applications, where interfaces often deal with vast amounts of data, the role of filters becomes mission-critical. Whether it’s managing thousands of records in a CRM, browsing product catalogs, or analyzing complex reports, filters empower users to customize their view, reduce noise, and increase the relevance of the information displayed.
The Importance of Filters in SaaS Applications
1. Data Management
SaaS platforms, especially B2B tools, handle enormous datasets—think customer databases, sales pipelines, support tickets, or analytical reports. Without effective filters, users are forced to sift through irrelevant information manually, leading to frustration and inefficiency.
A well-designed filter UI allows users to segment, sort, and retrieve precise data subsets, transforming an overwhelming dataset into actionable insights. For instance, sales teams can filter leads by status, region, or engagement level, making data management streamlined and productive.
2. Product Discovery
For SaaS applications offering product catalogs, marketplaces, or content libraries, filters play a pivotal role in product discovery. Users expect intuitive filtering options—by category, price range, ratings, availability, and more.
A thoughtful filter section website UI ensures that users can quickly find products or services matching their needs, enhancing their journey from browsing to buying. Effective filters here directly contribute to higher conversion rates and customer satisfaction.
3. Workflow Optimization
In task management tools, collaboration platforms, or project dashboards, filters help users declutter their workspace. By allowing users to view tasks assigned to them, filter by deadline, priority, or project phase, filters optimize daily workflows.
This not only improves productivity but also reduces cognitive load, enabling teams to focus on what matters most. Without these filters, users would waste valuable time navigating through irrelevant information.
4. Personalized User Experiences
Modern SaaS users demand personalization. Filters provide a self-service way for users to tailor their experience, aligning with their specific goals and preferences.
For example, analytics platforms can allow users to filter data by custom timeframes, demographics, or KPIs, delivering personalized insights. This level of customization elevates user satisfaction and fosters long-term engagement.
Types of Filter UI Design (With Examples)
Filter UI elements come in various forms, each designed to cater to specific user needs and contextual requirements. Selecting the right type of filter ensures that users can efficiently interact with and narrow down vast amounts of data. Below, we explore the most common types of filters used in SaaS applications and their ideal use cases.
1. Checkbox Filters
Ideal for multi-select options.
Checkbox filters are perfect when users need to select multiple options from a list. This filter type is most commonly used in scenarios where users may need to choose more than one category or feature.
- Use Case: E-commerce platforms or data tables where users can select several product categories or filter by various attributes like size, color, or rating.
- Example: A user might check "Men's Clothing," "Laptops," and "Home Appliances" in a multi-category filter, allowing them to view results across different product categories simultaneously.
2. Radio Button Filters
Best for single-choice selections.
Radio buttons are ideal for scenarios where only one option can be selected. They are used for filters where there is a clear need for a singular decision, such as sorting or filtering by a specific criterion.
- Use Case: Sorting options on e-commerce sites, where users must select a single sort order, such as "Newest" or "Price: Low to High."
- Example: A filter allowing users to select only one sorting method, such as "Lowest Price" or "Highest Rating," will limit the user’s choice to a single option, making the decision straightforward.
3. Dropdown Filters
Save space while offering multiple options.
Dropdown filters are a great choice for saving space on the user interface while still providing a wide range of options. These filters expand when clicked, revealing a list of options from which the user can select.
- Use Case: Ideal for filters with a long list of values, such as geographic locations, languages, or categories that would otherwise take up too much space if displayed as checkboxes or radio buttons.
- Example: A filter for selecting a country or region in a form, where the user can select from a comprehensive list of countries without cluttering the interface.
4. Sliders and Range Selectors
Great for filtering numerical ranges.
Sliders are particularly useful when users need to filter data based on a numerical range, such as prices, dates, or other quantitative measures. A slider allows users to visually select a range by dragging a handle along a continuum.
- Use Case: Used extensively for filtering by price range, date range, or other numerical values.
- Example: A user might slide a bar to select a price range between $50 and $200 when shopping online, instantly adjusting search results based on that range.
5. Tags & Pills
Used for showing active filters.
Tags, often called pills, are used to display the currently applied filters in a compact, easy-to-read format. Each filter is presented as a pill-like label with an “X” or “remove” button, enabling users to quickly see and adjust their selections.
- Use Case: Common in applications where multiple filters can be applied at once, such as search result pages or dashboards.
- Example: A filter might display “Brand: Nike,” “Size: Medium,” and “Color: Red” as tags above a list of products, and users can remove any of these by clicking the “X” next to the tag.
6. Search Within Filters
Embedded search fields within filters to refine options further.
The search within filters feature allows users to quickly find specific options within a larger set of values. This is especially helpful when there are many possible options and users need to narrow their choices without scrolling through the entire list.
- Use Case: Useful for filtering large datasets, such as when users are searching for a particular brand, product, or category from a lengthy dropdown or multi-select list.
- Example: A search bar within the “Brand” dropdown lets users type and quickly find a specific brand name (e.g., “Apple” or “Samsung”) from a list of hundreds.
7. Advanced Filter Panels
Expandable panels for more complex filtering.
Advanced filter panels are expandable sections that provide users with more granular filtering options. These panels are ideal for more complex data sets that require a multi-dimensional approach to filtering.
- Use Case: Often used in enterprise SaaS applications where users need to filter large volumes of data across multiple dimensions, such as time period, location, product category, and more.
- Example: A user might open an advanced filter panel to refine search results in a project management tool, applying filters for project status, priority level, and assigned team members, all within a single interface.
Anatomy of an Effective Filter UI Design for SaaS
An exceptional filter UI design is far from accidental—it is intentionally crafted with careful consideration of user goals, business objectives, and interface constraints. An effective filter system ensures that users can easily navigate and manipulate data to achieve their desired results, improving both usability and overall experience. Below are the key components that contribute to creating a powerful and intuitive filter UI design for SaaS applications.
1. Filter Placement
Positioning filters strategically for ease of access.
The placement of filters plays a crucial role in the overall user experience. Filters should be located in a spot that aligns with user expectations and natural navigation patterns.
- Desktop Placement: Filters are traditionally placed on the left side of the screen. This positioning is conventional and familiar to most users, making it easy to scan and access. Users expect to find filters here, especially when dealing with a large dataset or e-commerce sites.
- Mobile Placement: For mobile devices, filters should be tucked into a slide-out or expandable menu. Since screen real estate is limited, a slide-out or collapsible panel provides a clean interface while maintaining the option to access and modify filters easily.
- Use Case: On an e-commerce SaaS site, users will expect filters like “Price Range,” “Size,” and “Brand” on the left on a desktop, but on mobile, these filters will likely appear as a slide-out menu to preserve the browsing experience.
2. Logical Grouping
Organizing filters in a user-friendly, intuitive way.
Logical grouping refers to the organization of filters based on their relevance, category, or frequency of use. By grouping related filters together, users can more easily navigate the filter options and find what they need.
- Grouping by Relevance: Filters that work well together or should be applied in sequence, such as “Price Range” and “Brand,” should be placed near each other for ease of access.
- Grouping by Category: Filters can also be grouped by broad categories, such as “Product Type,” “Location,” and “Time Period.”
- Grouping by Usage Frequency: High-frequency filters, like “Sort by Price” or “Newest First,” should be more prominently displayed, while less frequently used filters could be tucked away in advanced settings or drop-downs.
- Use Case: On a travel SaaS platform, filters might be grouped into categories like “Destinations,” “Budget,” and “Travel Dates,” allowing users to easily navigate and narrow down their search.
3. Clear Labels & Icons
Using intuitive language and visuals to guide users.
Clarity is paramount when designing filter options. Filters should be clearly labeled using simple, user-friendly terms to avoid confusion. Jargon or overly complex terminology can frustrate users and create barriers to effective filtering. Additionally, supporting icons can enhance the visual appeal and help users quickly identify the purpose of each filter.
- Clear Labels: Use simple, unambiguous terms that match the user’s mental model. For example, “Price Range” is preferable to a more technical term like “Cost Bracket.”
- Icons: Icons can complement text and enhance comprehension. For instance, a calendar icon next to a “Date” filter or a price tag icon next to “Price Range” makes it easy to understand the filter’s function.
- Use Case: In a CRM software, using an icon of a dollar sign for “Budget” and a clock for “Time” helps users immediately understand what they are filtering by, streamlining the experience.
4. Real-time Feedback
Instantly updating results to show changes in filters.
Real-time feedback allows users to see the impact of their filter selections immediately. This feature ensures that users don’t have to wait for page reloads or additional actions to see their updated results. This responsiveness is crucial for providing a seamless and dynamic experience, especially for complex datasets.
- Instant Updates: As filters are applied, the displayed results should update instantly, allowing users to assess the effect of their filters without interruption.
- Use Case: On an online marketplace, when a user selects a price range or a specific product category, the product listings should update in real-time, showing only the products that match the selected criteria.
5. Active Filter Visibility
Making applied filters easily identifiable.
Users should always be able to see which filters are currently active. This ensures transparency, allowing users to track and modify their filtering choices easily. Active filters should be clearly displayed in a prominent position on the interface.
- Highlighting Active Filters: Active filters should be visually distinct, typically shown as tags, chips, or pills that can be removed or adjusted with a click.
- Use Case: On a content management SaaS platform, users might see tags like “Price: $50-$100” or “Category: Software” above their search results, allowing them to see at a glance which filters are applied and quickly modify them if needed.
6. Reset/Clear All Option
Providing users with a way to start over easily.
A reset or “clear all” option is essential for allowing users to quickly discard their current filters and start fresh. This is particularly useful in situations where a user has applied multiple filters and wants to quickly return to an unfiltered state without manually undoing each selection.
- Clear All Button: A prominently displayed “Reset” or “Clear All” button enables users to easily start from scratch without confusion.
- Use Case: On an analytics SaaS platform, users who’ve applied multiple filters for complex data analysis will appreciate a “Clear All” option that instantly resets the filters without needing to individually remove each one.
Dilemmas in Filter Design: What to Do?
Designing filters can present tricky decisions, as the choice of filter placement, behavior, and interaction can significantly impact the user experience. Here are common dilemmas in filter design, along with best practices to guide decisions:
Dilemma 1: Search Filters on Left or Right?
- Best Practice: The left side is the standard placement for primary filters. This is a familiar layout, often seen in platforms like Amazon and LinkedIn, where users expect to find filtering options on the left for easy scanning.
- Exception: Right-side filters can be used for secondary or less important filters that don’t require as much immediate attention. These might include filters for advanced search options or additional parameters that are not frequently adjusted.
- Mobile: On mobile, filter drawers (collapsible menus) are recommended to save space. A drawer that slides out from the side is ideal for keeping the interface clean while allowing users to access filters when needed.
Dilemma 2: Should Filters Auto-Apply or Require an ‘Apply’ Button?
- Auto-apply: This is ideal for filters that provide immediate, noticeable feedback, such as toggling a category or selecting a single option. Auto-apply enhances the user experience by allowing results to update instantly without needing an extra click. It is most suitable for simple filters.
- Apply Button: For more complex filters, such as those with multiple criteria (e.g., date range, price range, or multi-select filters), an apply button is safer. It prevents overwhelming the user by applying changes only when they are ready, ensuring that selections are intentional.
Dilemma 3: Persistent Filter Panels vs. Overlay Modals?
- Persistent Panels: These are better suited for tasks where users need to reference or adjust filters while interacting with results constantly. They provide continuous access to filter options without hiding them, which is useful for applications with extensive data sets or where users want to refine their search iteratively.
- Overlay Modals: These work well for secondary or less frequently used filters. An overlay modal temporarily takes focus, allowing users to make adjustments and then return to the primary interface. This is especially effective for mobile contexts or simpler applications with fewer filters.
Undoubtedly, Decisions in Filter UX Design
While some aspects of filter design can be subjective and context-dependent, certain best practices are universally essential for creating a smooth, intuitive experience for users.
Active Filters Must Be Visible
- It’s crucial to keep users informed about which filters are applied. Active filters should be clearly visible, often displayed as tags, pills, or highlighted labels. This transparency ensures that users understand the state of their search and can adjust filters easily if needed.
Filters Should Be Easy to Remove
- Providing a straightforward way to remove or clear filters is essential. Users should be able to effortlessly modify their selections, whether by clicking an “X” icon next to each active filter or by using a global reset button to clear all selections at once. This gives users more control and flexibility in their search.
Consistency is Key
- Consistent design patterns across your platform help users quickly learn how to interact with filters. Whether it’s the placement of the filter panel, the behavior of buttons, or the design of filter elements, maintaining consistency reduces cognitive load and makes for a smoother user experience.
Accessibility Matters
- Filters should be usable by all users, including those with disabilities. This means ensuring that filters are operable via keyboard shortcuts, screen readers, and other assistive technologies. Accessibility is not just a legal requirement but a fundamental part of making your platform inclusive.
Performance Optimization
- Filters should not slow down the application or create lag when interacting with them. Performance is critical, especially for complex applications with large datasets. Slow filter performance can frustrate users and drive them away, so optimization should be a priority in design.
Examples of Common Filter Elements in Use
Filter elements are integral to SaaS applications. They allow users to refine their searches and streamline their workflows, helping them find the most relevant information quickly and efficiently. Let's explore how different SaaS applications implement common filter elements effectively, improving usability and providing a smoother user experience.
1. Checkboxes
- Example: HubSpot CRM
- Use Case: Selecting Multiple Contact Properties
Definition: Checkboxes allow users to select multiple options simultaneously, making them ideal for filtering scenarios where users want to choose more than one item from a list.
Application: In HubSpot CRM, users can filter contacts based on multiple properties, such as job titles, industries, or locations. This multi-select feature gives users flexibility in their search, allowing them to view contacts that meet various criteria at once.
Benefit: Checkboxes are simple to use and effective for scenarios where users need to select multiple filters, providing a fast and intuitive way to refine search results.
2. Dropdowns
- Example: Salesforce Reports
- Use Case: Filtering by Industry or Region
Definition: Dropdowns present a list of options in a compact space, allowing users to select a single value from a predefined set. They are perfect for scenarios where there are numerous filtering options but space is limited.
Application: Salesforce uses dropdowns for filtering reports by attributes such as industry or region. Users can quickly select a value from the dropdown list to refine their data reports, helping them view relevant results.
Benefit: Dropdowns are space-efficient and suitable for managing long lists of options without overwhelming the user. They simplify navigation by allowing users to filter with just a few clicks.
3. Sliders
- Example: Canva
- Use Case: Adjusting Price or Complexity of Templates
Definition: Sliders allow users to select a value from a continuous range, often represented visually with a bar. They are particularly useful for filtering numerical data, such as price ranges, ratings, or other values with a specific scale.
Application: On Canva, users can adjust the price or complexity of templates using sliders. This feature allows them to visually control the variables they are filtering for, such as finding a template within a specific price range or level of complexity.
Benefit: Sliders offer a highly intuitive interface for filtering numerical data, providing real-time feedback, and allowing users to quickly adjust their search criteria.
4. Search Within Filters
- Example: Notion
- Use Case: Searching Tags Within Filter Panel
Definition: This feature allows users to search for specific terms or tags within a filter panel, making it easier to find a particular option among many. It is especially useful for long lists or when users need to quickly locate an item without scrolling through all available options.
Application: In Notion, users can search for specific tags within the filter panel to narrow down their results. This feature helps users quickly locate the relevant filter options, improving efficiency and reducing the time spent searching.
Benefit: The ability to search within filters streamlines the filtering process, making it much faster and more convenient, especially for users who need to sift through a large number of categories.
5. Tags/Pills
- Example: Monday.com
- Use Case: Showing Active Filters on Dashboards
Definition: Tags or pills visually represent active filters, making it clear which criteria are currently being applied. These elements often include a way to remove or modify the filter, such as an "X" button or reset function.
Application: In Monday.com, active filters are shown as tags on dashboards, allowing users to see which filters are applied to the data they're viewing. Users can easily remove or change these filters by interacting with the tags.
Benefit: Tags provide clarity by displaying the active filters in an easily visible way, making it simple for users to keep track of their selections and modify them when necessary.
Complex Filter UI Design Examples in SaaS
When dealing with complex data, filtering systems must be advanced yet intuitive enough to handle large volumes of information without overwhelming the user. Below are some SaaS applications that excel at implementing complex filter UI designs, making it easy for users to navigate and refine their data efficiently.
1. Salesforce
- Multi-layered Filters with Nested Dropdowns
Definition: Nested dropdowns allow users to make selections based on a hierarchy of options, where one selection narrows down the available choices in subsequent dropdowns.
Application: Salesforce uses multi-layered filters with nested dropdowns to enable users to filter data based on multiple attributes, such as selecting an industry, then a region, and finally a specific account within that region.
- Persistent Sidebar with Collapsible Sections
Definition: A persistent sidebar remains visible as users scroll through the data, with sections that can be expanded or collapsed to keep the interface clean and organized.
Application: Salesforce's sidebar provides easy access to filter options, and users can collapse sections to focus on relevant filters, helping maintain a clean workspace while offering powerful filtering capabilities.
- Real-time Updates on Search Results UI Page
Definition: Real-time updates ensure that as users apply or modify filters, the search results automatically refresh without the need to reload the entire page.
Application: In Salesforce, as users adjust filters, the data presented in the results page updates immediately, giving instant feedback on how the filters impact the displayed information.
- Benefit: Salesforce’s filter design allows users to refine their search progressively, with real-time updates that enhance efficiency and keep the interface uncluttered.
2. Airtable
- Advanced Filtering with Conditions (AND/OR Logic)
Definition: Advanced filters enable users to apply complex conditions, combining multiple filters with AND/OR logic to create highly customized searches.
Application: Airtable allows users to filter records based on multiple criteria, with the option to combine conditions using AND (all conditions must be true) or OR (only one condition must be true).
- Visual Filter Builder for Custom Views
Definition: A visual filter builder enables users to create custom views with intuitive drag-and-drop functionality, making it easy to set up complex filters.
Application: Airtable’s filter builder lets users visually construct custom filters by adding conditions and sorting options, creating personalized views that suit their specific needs.
- Active Filter Indicators with Easy Toggle-off
Definition: Active filters are visually displayed, allowing users to see which filters are currently applied, with simple options to remove them by toggling them off.
Application: In Airtable, active filters are clearly indicated, and users can easily remove any unwanted filters by clicking on a small “X” button or toggling them off.
- Benefit: Airtable’s sophisticated filtering system provides flexibility and clarity, helping users manage complex data sets with ease.
3. Notion
- Combines Inline Filters with Advanced Filters
Definition: Inline filters allow users to apply filters directly within a specific view or block, while advanced filters provide more powerful filtering options for complex needs.
Application: Notion allows users to filter data both inline (e.g., by a property within a database) and through more advanced filters that use multiple properties or relations between different datasets.
- Filter by Properties, Relations, and Formulas
Definition: Notion’s filtering system supports filtering based on a variety of complex criteria, such as properties (e.g., date or text), relations (connections between different pages or databases), and formulas (user-defined calculations).
Application: Users can create highly specific filters to manage their information, such as filtering tasks based on due dates, priority levels, or relational data between different projects or teams.
- Simple UI for Complex Workflows
Definition: Despite its advanced filtering capabilities, Notion maintains a simple and intuitive interface that makes it easy for users to navigate even complex workflows.
Application: Notion's minimalist design ensures that users can quickly apply filters without being overwhelmed by the complexity of their workflows, even when dealing with multiple databases or complex relations.
- Benefit: Notion’s combination of inline and advanced filters, along with its simple UI, allows users to manage complex data in a streamlined and efficient manner.
4. Figma
- Filters for Design Components, Libraries, and Plugins
Definition: Figma’s filters allow users to narrow down design components, libraries, and plugins to find the exact element they need, enhancing the design workflow.
Application: In Figma, users can filter through various components and design elements, including plugins, to quickly access the resources needed for their designs.
- Contextual Filters Appearing Based on Workspace Activity
Definition: Contextual filters dynamically appear based on what the user is currently doing in the workspace, ensuring that only relevant filtering options are presented.
Application: Figma adapts its filter options depending on the user’s current task, such as filtering design components during the creation process or filtering plugins when adding new features to a design.
- Benefit: By offering contextual filters, Figma ensures that users have the most relevant options available based on their current needs, streamlining the design process.
5. Jira (Atlassian)
- Advanced Filters for Issues, Epics, and Sprints
Definition: Jira’s filter system allows users to apply advanced filters for specific issues, epics (larger bodies of work), and sprints (time-limited work phases), catering to agile project management needs.
Application: Jira’s filtering system helps project managers and developers filter tasks by attributes such as issue status, priority, sprint, or epic, ensuring they can focus on specific areas of the project.
- Save Custom Filter Queries for Recurring Tasks
Definition: Jira allows users to save their custom filter queries, making it easy to apply the same set of filters to new tasks or sprints without having to redefine them.
Application: Users can create custom filters for recurring tasks, such as filtering by priority or assignee, and save them for later use to streamline their workflow.
- Benefit: Jira’s advanced filtering capabilities ensure that users can efficiently manage complex projects and workflows, with the added benefit of saving and reusing custom filter queries.
These examples show how complex filtering doesn’t have to be overwhelming when designed thoughtfully.
Filters UX Design Inspiration: More SaaS Success Stories
If you're looking for filters UX design inspiration, explore:
- Shopify Admin: Clear segmentation and filter grouping.
- Zendesk: Smart filters for ticket management with status indicators.
- Trello: Label and due-date filters enhance visual task management.
- Google Analytics: Advanced segmentation filters in a compact interface.
These platforms balance complexity with clarity — a hallmark of good SaaS design.
Search Results UI Page: The Role of Filters
In SaaS platforms, the search results UI page is the battlefield for user attention. Filters act as strategic tools, helping users:
- Narrow down overwhelming datasets.
- Customize results to fit their needs.
- Save time and effort.
A well-designed filter UI improves search efficiency, reduces cognitive load, and drives conversions.
Tip: Ensure filters on search results pages are prominent, easy to adjust, and reflect user actions immediately.
UX Pattern: Filters Showing Active States
One crucial UX pattern is showing active filters clearly.
Best Practices:
- Use tags or pills above the search results.
- Highlight active options in the filter panel.
- Provide clear “remove filter” icons.
- Consider a sticky filter summary on scroll.
This pattern improves usability by keeping users informed and in control.
Future Trends in Filter UI Design for SaaS (2025 & Beyond)
Here’s what’s next for filter UX/UI:
- AI-Powered Smart Filters: Predictive filtering based on user behavior.
- Voice & Gesture Filters: Emerging for accessibility and hands-free use.
- Personalized Filter Defaults: Auto-applied based on past interactions.
- Real-time Collaborative Filtering: For team-based SaaS tools.
To stay competitive, SaaS companies should consider leveraging specialized UI UX design services to adopt these innovations.
FAQ
What is a filter in UX/UI for SaaS?
A filter allows users to refine large datasets by applying criteria like categories, dates, or tags, improving search relevance and user satisfaction.
Where should filters be placed: left or right?
Typically, filters are placed on the left for primary navigation, especially on desktop. Right-side filters are rare and used for secondary options.
How do you show active filters in SaaS applications?
Use visual cues like tags, pills, or highlighted states. Ensure active filters are visible and offer clear removal options.
What are the most effective filter UI components?
Checkboxes, dropdowns, sliders, search-within-filters, and tag-based active states are among the most effective components for SaaS filters.
Why are filters critical for B2B SaaS?
B2B SaaS applications often deal with complex data. Filters streamline workflows, reduce information overload, and enhance decision-making.
Conclusion
Filters might seem like small UI elements, but in SaaS applications, they’re mission-critical. They bridge the gap between massive datasets and user goals, ensuring a frictionless experience. By applying best practices, learning from successful examples, and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create filter UIs that delight users and drive business success.
Looking to revamp your filter UX/UI? Consider partnering with professional UI UX design services to get it right the first time.