Salesforce used to have the same layout for everyone, no matter their role. But with Dynamic Forms, admins now have more control to create cleaner and more customized record pages for different users.
What Are Page Layouts?
Page Layouts have been the backbone of record customization for years. They determine:
1. Which fields are visible/editable.
2. Which buttons and related lists are shown.
3. Field order and layout sections.
You can assign different layouts based on Record Types and Profiles, helping tailor the UI to user needs.
Simple. Powerful. But also... a bit rigid.
Dynamic Forms :
Introduced as part of Salesforce’s move toward a more component-based UI, Dynamic Forms allow you to:
1. Place individual fields and sections directly on the Lightning Page.
2. Show/hide fields based on criteria.
3. Reduce clutter by only showing fields when needed.
It's like giving your record page a brain—more responsive, cleaner, and smarter.
Do We Still Need Page Layouts?
Dynamic Forms only replace part of what Page Layouts do. They focus on fields and sections.
Here is what Dynamic Forms don’t replace :
1. Buttons
2. Related Lists
3. Compact Layout assignments
4. Mobile layout control
So for now, Page Layouts are still essential—especially for objects that do not support Dynamic Forms yet (like standard objects such as Opportunity, Case, etc.)
When to Use What?
Use Page Layouts when:
1. You need to control related lists or buttons
2. You’re working on objects that don’t yet support Dynamic Forms
3. You want a simple way to assign layouts by Record Type + Profile
Use Dynamic Forms when:
1. You want conditional visibility for fields
2. You’re working on supported custom objects or standard objects that now support them
3. You want a more modular, Lightning Experience-friendly layout
# Pro Tip: Combine both for the best of both worlds.
Best Practices Going Forward :
1. Audit your layouts—migrate heavy layouts to Dynamic Forms where possible.
2. Name clearly—distinguish between “Layout” and “Lightning Page” in your naming.
3. Design for roles, not just objects—think about who’s using it and what they need to see.
4. Embrace modular design—Dynamic Forms, Lightning Components, and Dynamic Actions.
Conclusion :
Page Layouts aren’t dead—they’re evolving.
While Dynamic Forms are the future of record customization, Page Layouts still provide foundational control for your org.
The smartest admins are blending withboth to create efficient, flexible, and user-centric experiences.