Figma vs Sketch
A detailed comparison of Figma and Sketch — features, pricing, pros & cons, and which one is right for you.
Last updated: April 3, 2026
Figma
Browser-based collaborative design tool that has become the industry standard for UI/UX design. Known for real-time collaboration and prototyping.
Sketch
Mac-native UI/UX design tool that pioneered modern digital design workflows. Known for its simplicity and robust plugin ecosystem.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Figma | Sketch |
|---|---|---|
| Vector Editing | ✓ | ✓ |
| Prototyping | ✓ | ✓ |
| Real Time Collaboration | ✓ | ✓ |
| Design Systems | ✓ | ✓ |
| Plugins | 1000+ | 700+ |
| Version History | ✓ | ✓ |
| Developer Handoff | ✓ | ✓ |
| Offline Mode | ✗ | ✓ |
| AI Features | ✓ | ✗ |
| Templates | ✓ | ✓ |
| Export Formats | PNG, SVG, PDF, JPG | PNG, SVG, PDF, WEBP |
| Platform | Browser + Desktop | Desktop (Mac) + Browser |
Pros & Cons
Figma
✓ Pros
- •Industry-leading real-time collaboration
- •Runs entirely in the browser
- •Powerful component and design system support
- •Excellent plugin ecosystem
- •Free tier is very generous
✗ Cons
- •Requires internet connection
- •Can be slow with very large files
- •Print design capabilities are limited
- •Acquired by Adobe (future pricing concerns)
Sketch
✓ Pros
- •Clean, focused UI design tool
- •Excellent symbol and component system
- •Native Mac performance
- •Affordable pricing
- •Strong plugin ecosystem
✗ Cons
- •Mac-only (no Windows or Linux)
- •Real-time collaboration added late
- •Losing market share to Figma
- •Web app is limited compared to desktop
The Verdict: Figma or Sketch?
Choose Figma if you prioritize ui/ux design teams wanting real-time collaboration with powerful prototyping in the browser.
Choose Sketch if you prioritize mac users and ui designers who prefer a native desktop experience with a focused feature set.
Figma offers a free plan, making it easy to try before committing. The best choice depends on your team size, workflow complexity, and specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Figma better than Sketch?▼
It depends on your needs. Figma is best for ui/ux design teams wanting real-time collaboration with powerful prototyping in the browser, while Sketch excels at mac users and ui designers who prefer a native desktop experience with a focused feature set. Figma offers a free plan you can try.
Can I switch from Figma to Sketch?▼
Yes, most design tools tools offer data migration or import features. Sketch can typically import data from Figma via export or direct integration. Plan for a transition period as your team adapts to the new workflow.
Which is cheaper, Figma or Sketch?▼
Figma pricing starts at Free (up to 3 projects). Sketch pricing starts at $10/editor/mo (Standard). Figma offers a free tier — compare features at each price point to find the best value.
Do Figma and Sketch have free plans?▼
Figma offers a free plan. Sketch does not have a free plan.