Discover the key differences between Salesforce Classic and Lightning, including features, user experience, performance, and benefits. Learn which version suits your business best.
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Salesforce is one of the most popular Customer Relationship Management (CRM) platforms. It helps businesses manage sales, marketing, customer service, and analytics. Over the years, Salesforce has introduced two major interface versions: Salesforce Classic and Salesforce Lightning Experience.
Many businesses still use Salesforce Classic, while others have migrated to Lightning. If you are wondering which version is right for your organization, this guide will help you understand the key differences.
Salesforce Classic is the earlier version of Salesforce. It has been used for many years and features a traditional tab-based design. The interface is simple and familiar, with menus and tabs that help users navigate features such as accounts, contacts, and opportunities.
Although Salesforce Classic is still available, no new features are being added. Many businesses are now moving to Salesforce Lightning, which provides a more modern and advanced experience.
Even though Classic is still functional, Salesforce has stopped adding new features to it.
Salesforce Lightning is an updated version of Salesforce Classic, introduced in 2015 to provide a faster, more efficient, and visually appealing experience. It features a modern, user-friendly interface that enhances productivity. With tools like the Lightning App Builder, users can create custom apps without coding knowledge. Lightning simplifies tasks by offering improved reports, advanced automation, and a streamlined navigation system, making it faster and more efficient than Salesforce Classic. It is designed to perform well on various devices, ensuring a seamless user experience.
Salesforce Lightning receives regular updates and new features, making it the preferred choice for most businesses.
| Aspect | Salesforce Classic | Salesforce Lightning |
|---|---|---|
| User Interface | Simple, text-heavy UI, tab-based navigation | Modern, component-based UI with drag-and-drop |
| Customisation | Uses Visualforce pages | Uses Lightning Components for flexible layouts |
| Performance | Slower loading times | Faster with optimised page performance |
| Mobile Experience | Limited mobile support | Fully responsive, mobile-friendly design |
| Reporting & Analytics | Standard reports with basic visuals | Enhanced dashboards with interactive graphs |
| AI Integration | No AI-powered features | Includes Einstein AI for smart insights |
| Support & Updates | No new features since 2019 | Regular updates and improvements |
Verdict: Lightning provides a more user-friendly and visually appealing interface than Classic.
Verdict: Lightning makes customisation easier and faster compared to Classic.
Verdict: Lightning is designed for better speed and efficiency.
Verdict: Lightning is the clear winner for mobile users.
Verdict: Lightning provides smarter and more detailed reporting options.
Verdict: Lightning offers AI-driven tools that Classic does not support.
Verdict: Lightning is the future, while Classic is slowly being phased out.
Verdict: Lightning has stronger security features than Classic.
Verdict: Lightning makes integrations faster and easier.
Verdict: Lightning requires an initial learning phase but provides better long-term benefits.
Salesforce Classic served its purpose, but Salesforce Lightning is the future. Lightning is recommended for businesses because it offers a modern interface, AI-powered tools, enhanced security, and better performance.
If your company still uses Salesforce Classic, now is the ideal time to consider migrating to Salesforce Lightning to stay competitive in the CRM landscape.