Is Sketch or Figma Better?

When it comes to designing user interfaces, both Sketch and Figma have gained popularity among designers. But which one is better? Let's dive into the details and find out.

Interface

Both Sketch and Figma provide a clean and intuitive interface, making it easy for designers to navigate through various tools and features. The interfaces are designed in a way that allows users to focus on their designs without any distractions.

Collaboration

Figma takes the lead when it comes to collaboration. It is a web-based tool, which means multiple designers can work simultaneously on the same file. This real-time collaboration feature makes it ideal for remote teams or projects where constant feedback and iteration are required.

Sketch, on the other hand, requires a third-party plugin like Abstract or Plant to enable collaboration. While these plugins do offer some level of collaboration, it is not as seamless as Figma's built-in features.

Platform Compatibility

Sketch is only available for macOS, which limits its accessibility for designers using other operating systems. However, if you are a Mac user, Sketch provides an excellent native experience with optimized performance.

Figma, being a web-based tool, works on any platform with a modern web browser. Whether you use macOS, Windows, or even Linux, you can access your designs from anywhere with an internet connection.

Plugins and Integrations

Figma has an advantage in terms of plugins and integrations. It has an extensive library of plugins that can enhance your workflow by adding new functionalities or automating repetitive tasks. Additionally, Figma integrates seamlessly with popular design tools like Zeplin and Avocode, making it easy to collaborate with developers.

Sketch also has a good selection of plugins available, but its library is not as extensive as Figma's. However, Sketch integrates well with other tools in the Apple ecosystem, such as Xcode and iOS Simulator.

File Management

Figma stores all your designs in the cloud, allowing you to access them from any device. It automatically saves your work in real-time and provides version control, making it easy to track changes and revert to previous versions if needed.

Sketch, on the other hand, stores files locally on your computer. While this gives you full control over your files, it also means you need to manually back up your work and manage file versions yourself.

Pricing

In terms of pricing, Figma's free plan offers generous features that are suitable for individual designers or small teams. They also have affordable paid plans for more advanced features and collaboration options.

Sketch, on the other hand, follows a traditional software licensing model. You need to pay a one-time fee for purchasing Sketch, which includes one year of updates. After the first year, you can choose to renew the updates annually for a reduced cost.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both Sketch and Figma are powerful design tools with their own strengths. If collaboration and platform compatibility are important factors for you or your team, Figma is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you are a Mac user looking for a native experience with strong plugin support, Sketch might be the better option.

Ultimately, the choice between Sketch and Figma depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider the factors discussed in this article and try out both tools to see which one aligns best with your design workflow.