A Comparative Analysis of Graphical and Voice User Interfaces in Human-Computer Interaction

Abstract

Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) has evolved from command-driven systems to user-centered designs that prioritize usability, accessibility, and user experience (UX). In this study, a comparative analysis of Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs) and Voice User Interfaces (VUIs) was carried out in order to examine their relative effectiveness in contemporary interaction design. A heuristic evaluation based on Nielsen's usability principles and the ISO 9241-11 usability framework was used to assess the usability, accessibility, and user experience (UX) of four widely used systems: Google Assistant and Duolingo (VUIs) and Microsoft Word and WhatsApp (GUIs). The findings show that GUIs achieved higher mean performance in terms of usability (4.6) and accessibility (4.4), which indicate developed visual conventions, strong error control, and inclusive design elements. VUIs, on the other hand, showed a better user experience (4.2), with conversational fluency, natural interaction, and emotional engagement. These findings show a functional-emotional trade-off. While VUIs improve immersion and contextual interaction, GUIs provide precision and predictability. Critical gaps in existing HCI practice are also identified by the study, including a lack of context-aware multimodal integration, underdeveloped accessibility frameworks for voice interaction, and a dependence on static evaluation techniques in spite of quickly developing AI-driven interfaces. The study comes to the conclusion that there is no single interface paradigm that is always better; instead, adaptive, multimodal integration that reacts to task demands, user characteristics, and real-world situations is necessary for good HCI design.