Attractive Things Do Work Better: A Meta-Analysis on Visual Aesthetics and User Performance
Marleen Schlamann, Steffen Nestler, Meinald T. Thielsch · International Journal of Human-Computer Interaction · 2026
Aesthetics is a central construct in human–computer interaction (HCI), shaping users’ perceptions and attitudes toward interfaces. However, evidence on whether aesthetics improves objective performance remains mixed. This preregistered meta-analysis examines whether users perform better (e.g., are faster, more accurate, or more efficient) with aesthetically appealing versus unappealing interfaces. Eligible studies required successful aesthetic manipulations, demonstrated by significant differences in subjective aesthetic ratings. A systematic literature search yielded 31 studies with 234 effect sizes and 18,794 participants. The meta-analytic model revealed a small to medium positive effect of aesthetics on performance (g = 0.29), though with high unexplained heterogeneity. Significant moderators were interaction device and typography manipulation, while one control variable, namely a posteriori-defined aesthetic conditions, suggested a confounding role of prior user experience (e.g., experienced usability). We discuss methodological limitations, stress the need for higher-quality research, and provide guidelines for future studies and systematic reviews alongside practical implications for HCI.