Smoke Testing Vs Sanity Testing

Smoke testing and sanity testing are two of the most important types of software testing. Though there is some confusion that arises when smoke and sanity testing come into perspective, once the differences are known, all the confusion gets transformed into clarity. Though both of these testing methods focus on software builds, but in the end, their functionality is where the difference sets in. In this article, you will get to know about smoke and sanity testing and the key differences between them. 

What is smoke testing?

It is a testing method that determines whether the software build that has been deployed is stable or not. QA team gets assurance through the conduction of smoke tests, to further conduct software testing. On each build, a few sets of tests are run in order to test software functionalities. The primary and core functions of an application are focused upon. The basic yet important feature of an application is tested before the actual testing process is carried out.

The positive flow of the application is focused upon and only valid data is entered. Business-critical functionalities are identified by this testing. These functionalities form an integral part of the product under development. If due to certain reasons, the test fails, then the build is categorized as unstable. Only when the smoke test is conducted again and the build is passed, then it can move to further testing. It is also known as “Build verification testing.”

What is sanity testing?

After receiving the software build, this testing method is performed in order to ensure that the code changes that have been introduced are working as expected or not. It ensures that all the defects are properly fixed and there are no new issues as such. It is usually unscripted and also supports in identifying the dependent missing functionalities. After making minor changes, whether a section of the application is still working fine or not is determined by sanity testing.

The functionality of the application is validated using this testing method. It follows a deep and narrow approach for testing. End-user requirements are properly met or not are verified by sanity testing. The accuracy of new feature changes is evaluated. It acts as a gatekeeper to move only those builds to further levels of testing which are stable. Testers are required to think rationally and analytically while performing this testing method.

Smoke testing vs. Sanity testing: