In my experience, the difference lies in the scope and focus. A Tech Lead usually focuses on one team or a feature area. They ensure the team delivers on time, follows best coding practices, and they often dive into the code to unblock developers. For example, in my previous project, as a Tech Lead, I guided a team of 5 developers to implement microservices for the payment module, optimized API performance, and reviewed their code for maintainability and security."
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"A .NET Architect, on the other hand, works at a system or product-wide level. The architect defines the overall system design, decides on technology stacks, cloud architecture, database strategy, and ensures scalability and security across modules. In that same project, I collaborated with the Architect to design the entire microservices ecosystem, including API contracts, event-driven architecture with Azure Service Bus, database partitioning, and CI/CD pipelines, which the Tech Leads then implemented with their teams."
"So, in short: a Tech Lead is more hands-on with delivery and team guidance, whereas an Architect is hands-on in design and strategic decisions, ensuring the entire system works cohesively. In my current career path, I’m excited to take on that Architect role to influence end-to-end design and scalability across multiple teams and modules."
💡 Tips while delivering this answer:
Speak confidently, don’t rush.
Use your own experience as examples — interviewers love concrete stories.
Highlight system thinking and team coordination.
End with your career motivation (why Architect role excites you).