Introduction
So people get confused when it comes to the relationship between user guides and user manuals. While the two terms have been used interchangeably for a long time, they differ in form and structure.
To better understand the relationships between the two, the table below has been drawn up:
User guide | User manual |
Simple. It may be a detailed reference, but it can also indicate a very simple overview or instructions. | Comprehensive. Usually a reference document with detailed information. |
It could be a card or a video. | Usually, it is a written document and comes in the form of a booklet or a large book. |
Geared towards operation from a user’s perspective, it may not include things like repair, installation, or exhaustive maintenance and troubleshooting. | Contains instructions on how to make stuff work the way it’s supposed to. This can be operating instructions, maintenance and repair instructions, or legal responsibilities of operation. |
You can find examples below to further understand how the two technical documents relate to and differ from one another:
User guides:
iPhone User Guide: https://support.apple.com/en-ng/guide/iphone/welcome/ios
Get Started With Your Z Flip5 Device: https://www.samsung.com/uk/smartphones/galaxy-z-flip5/myflip/
Hisense Refrigerator Use and Care Guide: https://assets.hisense-usa.com/assets/ProductDownloads/362/a6acc26400/HRB208N6BSE_UM.pdf
JBL IRX100 Series User’s Guide: https://www.jbl.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwc2264242/pdfs/JBL_IRX100_Series_Users_Guide_092820_EN.pdf
A Guide And Instructions For Laboratory Incubator-Types, Uses, and Parts: https://www.mrclab.com/a-guide-and-instructions-for-laboratory-incubator-types-uses-parts
User manuals:
Split Cool AC Tundra Series user manual: https://www.thermocool.com.ng/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Split-Cool-AC-Tundra-Series-User-Manual.pdf
Panasonic Refrigerator Instruction Manual: https://manuals.plus/panasonic/refrigerator-manual-8#axzz8HLKbdk2v
JBL Quantum TWS Owner’s Manual: https://www.jbl.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwf53e7b49/pdfs/HP_JBL_Quantum_TWS_OM_SOP_EN_V7.pdf
LG Bottom Freezer Refrigerator Owner’s Manual: https://www.lg.com/us/support/products/documents/lfxs24623.pdf
Conclusion
Hopefully, you now have a clear understanding of user guides and user manuals and can use them appropriately.