High-Level Design (HLD) focuses on system architecture and major components, while Low-Level Design (LLD) delves into implementation specifics of each component.
HLD addresses the 'what' and 'why' of the system, serving as a blueprint for architects and stakeholders. LLD specifies 'how' to implement, offering precise instructions for developers.
HLD involves system context diagrams, data flow diagrams, while LLD includes class diagrams, pseudo-code, and detailed API specifications.
HLD is created early in the software development lifecycle, with LLD developed after HLD and before the coding phase, targeting different audiences.