If you prioritize seamless collaboration and cross-platform accessibility, choose Figma. However, if you prefer a robust design solution dedicated solely for Mac, then Sketch is your ideal pick.
Key Differences Between Figma and Sketch
Figma operates on any OS with a web browser, while Sketch is strictly for MacOS.
Figma has an online file and versioning system, Sketch files are contained within the app.
Sketch offers a one-time purchase with annual renewals while Figma operates on a freemium model offering multiple pricing tiers.
Figma hosts a whiteboarding software FigJam, Sketch lacks this functionality.
Sketch offers high-precision tools for design like pixel grids, Figma incorporates a range of tools with emphasis on collaboration and integration.
Sketch is often best for solo projects, whereas Figma excels in team-based projects.
Comparison
Figma
Sketch
Platform Support
Any OS with a web browser, including Macbook, Windows, Linux, and Chromebooks.
macOS only
Design Focus
User interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design; including real-time collaboration features
User interface (UI) design and prototyping; best suited for individual designers on Mac
Special Features
FigJam whiteboarding software, Figma Community, design versioning system
Infinite canvas, customizable toolbar, artboards for multiple screen sizes
Integration Capability
Slack, Uber’s live design file displays, Atlassian’s JIRA software, Zeplin
InVision for interactivity preview, Figma for collaboration and feedback
Pricing
Free, Professional, Organization, and Enterprise plans
$99 for the first year, $69 for renewal. Volume license offered
What Is Figma and Who’s It For?
Figma, a cutting-edge web application, pioneers interface and experience design, galvanizing real-time collaboration. Founded by Dylan Field and Evan Wallace in 2012, it fosters creative power through straightforward, innovative tools. Designed for diverse operating systems, its potential users encapsulate a broad spectrum – from startups to titans like Google. Figma fulfills the requirements of UX/UI designers, design educators, or any creative looking to freely express their notions online.
Individual eyeing for teamwork efficiency, easier design version management, seamless integration with third-party platforms like Slack or Zeplin, and Chromebook compatibility, will greatly benefit from Figma. It offers pricing plans suited for varied needs, expediting its mainstream viability.
Pros of Figma
Strong emphasis on real-time collaboration
Agile compatibility across diverse operating systems
Efficient versioning system
Fulfilling array of pricing plans
Google Docs-like accessibility
Cons of Figma
Uncertainty looming over Adobe acquisition
Potential falter of standalone identity in post-acquisition phase
Comparatively higher learning curve for beginners
What Is Sketch and Who’s It For?
Sketch, a vector-based design tool specializing in UI, prides itself with an industry standard, serving Mac users globally. Offering an infinite canvas, customizable toolbar, and varied editable templates, Sketch cater to clients seeking interactive previews, collaboration, and affordability.
Designers preferring high-precision tools, auto-detection of utilized colors, manageable text styles, and a reusable arsenal of elements will find Sketch beneficial. Albeit Mac-only, it proves an ideal tool for individual users or teams operating solely on Apple hardware and canvasing interactive prototypes, intuitive photo edits, and compelling mockups.
Pros of Sketch
Easy to learn, tailored for multiple devices
High-precision design elements
Affordability with substantial value
Seamless integration with InVision and Figma
Cons of Sketch
Mac only, limited to one-device per license
Collaboration tool restricted to MacOS Sketch subscribers
Not compatible with PCs.
Restricted to desktop version, lacks mobile support
Unveiling the Verdict: Figma vs Sketch, What’s Your Pick?
The battle between Figma and Sketch creates an evocative narrative of tech enhancements and is intensely contingent on user-specific requisites. Let’s disseminate the verdict.
Web-based Design Enthusiasts
If your design journey necessitates collaborative endeavors, Figma’s real-time collaboration feature makes it a clear winner. Its web-based nature and compatibility with varying OS, including Chromebooks, makes design work readily accessible. Features like Slack integration, versioning system, and compatibility with Zeplin make it a no-brainer for web lovers.
Dedicated Mac Users
Sketch, a tool crafted specifically for Mac, provides a streamlined experience for those ensconced in the Apple ecosystem. Easy-to-use features like editable templates, interactive previews for clients and an infinite canvas make Sketch the optimum choice for Mac stalwarts.
Design Newbies and Educators
For beginners breaking into the design sphere or educators seeking to impart design knowledge, Figma, in alliance with Google for Education, provides an easy entry point. The simplistic, free, and creative tools make it the platform of choice for novice designers and educators.
Developers and Integrators
The vastness of Sketch’s plugin infrastructure and handover ease to developers make it a clear choice for teams focused on development integration. Its compatibility with InVision and focus on macOS provides a robust environment for software development.
Opting between Figma and Sketch hinges on your design demands. For collaborative, web-based creative endeavors, Figma emerges triumphant. For design simplicity within the macOS ecosystem, Sketch takes the lead.
Patrick Daugherty
Content writer @ Aircada. Merging AR expertise with a love for late-night gaming sessions.
