small but critical vs subtle but crucial

Examples:

• The small but critical details in the design made all the difference in the final product.
• His small but critical mistake cost the team the game.
• It may seem like a small but critical issue, but it can have a huge impact on the outcome.
• Don't overlook the small but critical steps in the process.
• The project's success hinged on addressing the small but critical flaws in the system.

Alternatives:

• minor but essential
• insignificant but vital
• tiny but indispensable
• petty but crucial
• negligible but pivotal

Examples:

• The subtle but crucial difference between the two proposals determined the winner.
• Her subtle but crucial feedback helped improve the overall performance.
• It's a subtle but crucial aspect of the plan that we can't afford to overlook.
• The success of the campaign relied on the subtle but crucial timing of the launch.
• The artist's work is full of subtle but crucial details that enhance its beauty.

Alternatives:

• hidden but vital
• quiet but essential
• understated but indispensable
• unobtrusive but crucial
• inconspicuous but pivotal