Within the ever-evolving domain of digital planning, choosing the proper tool can make all the distinctions. Two heavyweights within the industry, Figma and Outline, have been combating the title of the extreme plan computer program. Both offer notable highlights and have their devoted fan bases. But when it comes down to using it, which one is better? In this detailed comparison, we’ll explore the strengths and weaknesses of Figma vs Sketch to help you make informed UI&UX design services.
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Figma vs Sketch differences
Figma vs Sketch are two of the most used tools. Although they serve similar purposes in information architecture, visual design and branding, the tools are quite different. We will examine their differences and then explain which one is best.
Understanding Figma and Sketch
Before diving into the comparison, let’s get to know Sketch vs Figma better.
Figma: The Collaborative Powerhouse
Figma burst onto the scene in 2016, quickly gaining popularity for its cloud-based collaborative features. Unlike traditional design software, Figma lives in the cloud, enabling real-time collaboration among team members regardless of location. Its Web-based interface and cross-platform compatibility make it available to Windows and Mac users. Figma offers a robust set of design tools, including vector editing, prototyping, and developer handoff features, making it a comprehensive solution for designers and teams.
Sketch: The macOS Darling
Sketch, conversely, predates Figma, having been released in 2010. At first accessible solely for macOS, Outline rapidly became the go-to instrument for numerous originators due to its ease of utilization and center-on interface plan. Portray is known for its intuitive interface, vector-altering capabilities, and a broad library of plugins and integrations, permitting architects to tailor their workflow to their needs.
Comparing the Two Giants: Sketch vs Figma
Now that we have a basic understanding of Figma and Sketch let’s dive into a detailed comparison of these two design titans.
1-Getting started
It’s difficult to overlook how similar Figma’s interface is to Sketch when you first use Figma. The transition from Sketch to Figma shouldn’t take too long from a user ability standpoint.
You’ll be taken to the “recent section” of the file browser when you open the Figma app. You’ll find preloaded, editable files here. You can use these files to create new designs.
The terminology is one difference. Figma uses Frames. Sketch works with Artboards. In Figma, symbols in Sketch are called components. This is a matter of semantics, and if Sketch is familiar, you will soon be able to navigate Figma.
2-Platform and performance
Figma can be used in-browser while Sketch requires you to have a desktop version. This is one of the main differences between the tools. Figma has a significant advantage in collaboration. Unlike Sketch, Figma is universally accessible. But more on that later. Figma can also be used as a desktop application for Windows and Mac. However, it is important to remember that if you don’t have an internet connection, you will not be able open new files in the desktop client. This could be problematic for designers who work offline.
3-Collaboration and Accessibility
Figma: One of Figma’s standout features is its cloud-based collaboration. Multiple users can work on the same design file simultaneously, a game-changer for remote teams. This collaborative environment extends to design reviews, user testing, and developer handoff, all accessible from within the platform.
Sketch: Sketch, while not inherently built for real-time collaboration, offers plugins like Abstract and Anima that add collaborative functionality. However, these third-party integrations may not provide the same seamless experience as Figma’s native collaboration tools. Also, Sketch is only available for macOS, limiting accessibility.
Verdict: Figma wins in collaboration and accessibility, particularly for remote or cross-platform teams.
4-Interface and Usability
Figma: Figma’s browser-based interface is clean and intuitive. It’s easy for both beginners and experienced designers to navigate. Figma’s interface is designed for efficient workflow with regular updates and user-friendly features.
Sketch: Sketch is renowned for its user-friendly interface, particularly on macOS. Its simplicity and focus on vector editing make it a favorite among interface and UX designers. Its interface customization options allow users to tailor the experience to their preferences.
Verdict: Sketch has a slight edge in terms of interface, particularly for macOS users. However, Figma’s web-based nature provides an accessible and adaptable experience.
5-Vector Editing and Design Tools
Figma: Figma’s vector editing tools are powerful, offering features like Boolean operations, vector networks, and pen tool precision. It supports advanced design techniques and encourages experimentation. Figma’s design tools are continuously evolving, adding new features regularly.
Sketch: Sketch’s vector editing capabilities are well-regarded and cater primarily to UI/UX designers. It offers various design features, including symbols, text styles, and reusable components. Sketch’s plugins extend its functionality significantly, allowing designers to enhance their workflows.
Verdict: Both Sketch vs Figma excel in vector editing and design tools. The choice depends on your specific design needs.
6-Pricing
Figma provides a free version for those who are starting small teams or want to upgrade. Figma’s free version lets two people edit the same document simultaneously and allows unlimited viewers. It can also handle up to three projects and offers unlimited cloud storage. The professional version is 12/month for large teams that have multiple projects. The professional version offers unlimited project management, custom file/user permissions, and shared team libraries. There is also an option for organizations. This version also includes SSO+ advanced security, design system analysis, and plugin administration among other benefits.
Sketch doesn’t offer a free version, unlike Figma. However, they offer a 99$ one-time payment (optional renewal is $79 per year). This includes all features and a year of updates. Sketch Teams requires a monthly subscription at 9$ per editor. This subscription includes the Mac app as well as a shared Cloud workspace that allows for collaboration. Figma and Sketch offer discounts for educators and students.
7-Styles
Styles are essential elements in a design scheme. Designers can save styles that match a set design element and then apply them across all boards. This feature is especially useful when creating large projects.
Figma’s styles are based on a cascade approach. The user can save and create styles for different elements (text, colors and effects), and then mix and match them with other elements. The style is not dependent on the elements, so the same style can have different text blocks or colors. Figma is more flexible than Sketch because of this ability.
8-Symbols & Components
Figma and Sketch include symbols and elements that can be duplicated across pages. They can also be edited simultaneously, saving you the hassle of changing each one individually. However, there are differences in the execution of these symbols’ operations.
Figma uses symbols to represent components. This tool doesn’t have a separate page for components, unlike Sketch. Instead, the original master part stays put and the user can copy it to make a new one. Because the components are simplified, every instance will update automatically when the master component is changed.
9-Vector tools
Figma vs Sketch are both great for creating elements but they don’t compete with vector-drawing software like Adobe Illustrator. As such, product designers often use multiple software tools.
The interface apps offer freeform vector tool as well as shapes (rectangle polygon and ellipse), and Boolean operation. These capabilities enable designers to solve design problems and create innovative interface designs.
10-Prototyping and Interaction Design
Figma: Figma is more flexible than Sketch in this regard, as it supports overlays for linking objects to other artboards. Figma’s intuitive design is another reason why it stands out. Designers can connect UI elements easily and select the appropriate interactions (e.g. You can also create animations by pressing a button. Figma is also mobile-optimized. This is a great benefit for momentum scrolling and device frames. This allows designers to better understand the user’s experience with the prototypes.
Sketch: Sketch does not have a native prototyping feature. However, it integrates seamlessly with third-party prototyping tools like InVision, Framer, and Principle. This can be advantageous for designers who prefer specialized prototyping solutions.
Verdict: Figma takes the lead in prototyping thanks to its integrated and feature-rich solution. Sketch’s reliance on third-party tools may require extra steps.
11-Plugins and Integrations
Figma: Figma has a growing library of plugins that enhance its functionality. These plugins cover various tasks, from design aids to code export tools. The Figma community actively develops and shares plugins, expanding the platform’s capabilities.
Sketch: Sketch has a robust plugin ecosystem, offering many options for extending functionality. Designers can find plugins for everything from data generation to accessibility testing. The availability of plugins is one of Sketch’s strongest suits.
Verdict: Both Sketch vs Figma have thriving plugin ecosystems. The choice here depends on the specific plugins that align with your workflow.
Conclusion of the Verdict between Figma vs Sketch
So, which one is better: Figma vs Sketch? Your preferences and requirements ultimately shape the answer.
Choose Figma if:
- Remote teams particularly require robust collaboration tools.
- A unified platform that integrates smoothly with both Windows and macOS is necessary.
- During your design process, integrated prototyping is a critical aspect.
- The continuous improvement aspect of cloud-based design is something you appreciate.
Choose Sketch if:
- Given my preference for macOS, I seek a design tool ideally suited for this environment.
- Vector-based interfaces hold a unique appeal for you, simplifying tasks.
- Sketch is enhanced by a set of plugins and integrations you rely exclusively on.
- You’re at ease with a one-time software purchase system.
Conclusion
Figma vs Sketch has its qualities and the “way better” choice generally depends on your workflow, group elements, and individual inclinations. Originators should consider their particular needs and attempt both apparatuses to decide which adjusts best with their imaginative handle. Eventually, both Figma vs Sketch have cemented their positions as industry pioneers in computerized plans, guaranteeing that originators have gotten to effective devices to bring their dreams to life.
FAQ
What is the main difference between Sketch and Figma?
One of the most significant differences between the two tools is that Figma works in-browser, whereas Sketch is a desktop app only available for Apple computers. This gives Figma a considerable advantage in collaboration: unlike Sketch, it’s universally accessible but more on later.
Do Apple designers use Sketch or Figma?
Apple has been using Figma to design their products since 2017, but they have also been known to use Sketch in the past. Figma is a software used to create designs for products, websites, and apps.
