A prototype is an early sample, model, or release of a product built to test a concept or process or to act as a thing to be replicated or learned from.It is a term used in a variety of contexts, including semantics, design, electronics, and software programming. A User Experience Prototype captures enough aspects of the intended design that it can support user research. 2  A Visual Prototype captures the size and appearance, but not the functionality, of the intended design.