For a long time, Sketch has been the go-to tool for many designers, but around 2013, we started hearing more and more about a new upstart—Figma—revolutionizing how design teams collaborate. But does this new kid on the block really live up to its hype or pose any competition to the old favorite Sketch?
Let’s find out in this deep-dive Figma vs. Sketch UI design comparison.
Figma Vs Sketch At A Glance
| Figma | Sketch | |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | Browser-based, works on any operating system | Desktop app, Mac only |
| Collaboration | Real-time co-editing with labeled cursors | More limited than Figma |
| Offline work | Needs an internet connection for full features | Works offline |
| Performance | Handles simultaneous collaborative sessions | Fast, because it runs locally |
| Pricing | Free plan plus paid plans | Paid plans (see pricing below) |
| Best for | Remote and cross-platform teams | Mac-based designers who want a native app |
Figma vs. Sketch Review
Collaboration and availability
According to studies, 79% of designers consider the overall usability of an app as the biggest determinant when choosing one.
One of the biggest differentiators between the two platforms is that Figma is browser-based, whereas Sketch is desktop-based and available only for Mac PCs. This universal accessibility has catapulted Figma to become one of the top three UX design apps in the market.
With Figma, you can join files in real time, and every team member’s cursor is labeled, making it easier to share ideas quickly. With Sketch, you must create exclusive designs. The platform limits collaboration options to exporting files for sharing and feedback.
Constraints
All modern design tools come with an adaptive layout. The reason is that device resolutions are increasing with each new product version. Figma allows you to calibrate the constraints by setting the element to screen center or pinning it against the borders.
This is almost similar to Sketch’s Resize object, but Figma constraints are more intuitive and visual. Sketch’s interface, though has more options like Float in place, allowing elements to retain the same proportional distance and size between each other.
Performance
Many things can impact the speed of either tool, from a particular WordPress theme you’re using for your site to the space on your hard disk. FIgma has no history of lag or speed issues, and collaborative design sessions can happen simultaneously.
Internet speeds don’t impact Sketch’s performance since it’s locally installed. It, therefore, boasts high speeds and performance, and you can work offline.
Pricing
Figma has four major pricing plans. These include the Free plan, Professional ($12/mo*), Organization($45/mo), and Enterprise plans($75/mo).
Sketch pricing includes a Standard Plan at $10 per editor/month and a Business Plan at $20 per editor/month. Both plans have annual pricing, meaning you must make a significant upfront investment.
Figma vs. Sketch Pros and Cons
Advantages
- Figma offers flexible vector manipulation, making it easier for remote teams to create impressive UI designs.
- It features easy developer handover and allows an easy transition to the next projects
- Its vast educational resources make learning and using Figma a walk in the park
Drawbacks
- Figma has a small integration library since they only started releasing integrations in 2019
- You must have internet connectivity to access all its features.
Sketch vs Figma Pros and Cons
Advantages
- There are many learning resources for web designers who want to maximize sketch to its fullest potential
- Sketch has a plethora of native third-party integrations
Drawbacks
- The system is prohibitively expensive since it’s only available on Mac devices
- Sketch has inferior collaboration features compared to Figma
- Since it must be installed locally, Sketch guzzles incredible hard-drive space, potentially reducing your Mac’s speed
Figma Or Sketch: Which Should You Choose?
- Remote or cross-platform teams: Figma, because it runs in the browser and everyone can work in the same file at once.
- Mac-only designers who want a native app: Sketch, which is fast and mature on macOS.
- Working offline: Sketch, since it is installed locally.
- Tight budget: Figma, which has a free plan.
Figma Vs Sketch FAQ
Is Figma better than Sketch?
For most teams, yes, especially remote and cross-platform ones, because Figma runs in the browser and supports real-time collaboration. Sketch still suits Mac-only designers who want a fast native app that works offline.
Does Sketch work on Windows?
No. Sketch’s design app runs on Mac only, which is why Windows users usually choose Figma.
Is Figma free?
Figma has a free plan, with paid plans for professionals and larger organizations.
Can you use Figma offline?
Figma needs an internet connection for full functionality. Sketch works offline because it is installed on your Mac.
Conclusion
Figma is the obvious winner in this Figma vs. Sketch UI design comparison. This platform is leagues ahead when it comes to cross-platform availability, affordability, and collaborative nature. Sketch is primarily known for its native experience and platform maturity. However, you can use both tools, switching between Windows and Mac to get the best of both worlds.
