Selecting the right design tool for workflow is important as it impacts overall productivity. Among various kinds of design tools, Adobe XD and Figma are two of the most preferred design tools that connect everyone during the design process. Figma is a real-time, collaborative online design and prototyping tool while Adobe XD provides a well-designed user interface that works in collaboration with other Adobe apps. Both Adobe XD and Figma are reliable design tools but come with unique features.
If you are confused between Figma Vs Adobe XD, then keep reading this blog to learn more about both of these interfaces. In this article, we’ll compare Figma vs. Adobe XD, exploring the main features, usability, collaborative capabilities, and much more, that help make an informed decision while choosing the ideal design companion for your projects.
What is Figma?
Figma is a browser-based vector interface design and prototyping tool that has become one of the most popular UX design tools in the modern world. The intuitive interface, detailed feature set, and rich collaboration features make Figma an ideal design interface. Due to a dynamic interface, Figma is preferred by UX/UI designers who look for an easy-to-adapt tool. Figma provides access to various design tools and elements required for creating full-fledged web design, prototyping, and code generation.
Figma: At Glance
- The main features of Figma include vector-based editing, cloud-based storage, real-time collaboration, prototyping, version history and commenting, unlimited plugins and integrations, etc.
- This design tool is ideal for UI designers, product designers, employees working remotely, and front-end developers, to name a few.
- The basic plan of Figma is completely free while the paid plans start at $12 per editor per month for advanced features.
What is Adobe XD?
Adobe XD is a vector-based design tool used for designing user interfaces (UI) for mobile and web applications. Despite the addition of new features in Adobe XD, it remains fairly lightweight as compared to other Adobe products like Photoshop or Illustrator. For interface designers looking for rapid design and prototyping iterations, Adobe XD is an ideal option.
By using Adobe XD designers can work in real time and get immediate feedback from their team members.
Adobe XD: At Glance
- Some of the key features of Adobe XD include Artboard-Based design workflows, asset export, prototyping, and repeat grid, among many more.
- Adobe XD is used for wireframing and mockups and for interactive UI experiences.
- The Adobe XD Cost without a Creative Cloud Membership is worth USD $9.99/month.
Figma vs Adobe XD: Key Differences
At first glance, the Figma vs Adobe XD showdown looks quite similar. But if we dive into some of the specific features, we will understand that there are many differences between both of them that help make the right decision regarding choosing the best one based on your design needs.
Supported Platforms
In the Figma vs Adobe XD debate, one of the most obvious differences is their supported platforms. Figma is mainly a web-based program, while Adobe XD works locally as a desktop app. For using Figma on any platform such as Windows, macOS, and Linux, all you need is just an internet connection. The designers can design Figma in the browser, or download a desktop app. However, while using the desktop app offline, one has to stay connected to the internet for full access to all of Figma’s features.
On the other hand, Adobe XD was created mainly as a desktop app currently available for Windows and macOS users. One can access all the collaboration features online that let you save your files to Creative Cloud.
Collaboration
Though both Figma and Adobe XD offer collaboration features, Figma enjoys an edge for offering real-time collaboration. This makes Figma the best option for companies looking to work simultaneously on various projects.
Designing
Both Figma and Adobe XD have a variety of design tools, including vector drawing with a pen tool, shape tools, text, and various color and effects options. However, Figma offers more flexibility with its vector networks, allowing designers to connect multiple lines and shapes. In Figma, one can easily use the pen tool for drawing the lines of a cube to create a customized vector shape.
On the other hand, Adobe XD consists of an array of design tools situated on its sidebar.
Creating and Managing Design Systems
Whether you work as a single UX design freelancer or manage a huge in-house design team, having a design system that’s fully integrated in your workspace saves a lot of time and effort. At the beginner level, design systems consist of a color palette and font styles, but UI/UX designers also use a combination of UI elements like cards, buttons, and other styles within their projects.
By using Figma, the designers can apply global styles for colors, fonts, and other attributes which can be pulled into the different design files. Though with Adobe XD as well, you have the same options to create color palettes, font styles, and components but for sharing a design system with a team at large, publishing the assets as a Creative Cloud Library is mandatory.
Prototyping
In Figma vs Adobe XD debate, both of them offer incredible user experience design tools, consisting of a full suite of features that take you from the initial wireframe through design prototyping and hand-off to developers. While both tools support prototyping, Adobe XD’s integration with Creative Cloud gives it an edge, especially for designers already immersed in Adobe’s ecosystem. Moreover, Adobe XD has a collection of triggers that facilitate more types of UI designs.
Pricing
Figma is an affordable solution for individual users as it has a free plan including all the essential features while Adobe XD has a fixed cost attached to it. Figma has a free plan for individuals and small teams, and its professional plan starts at $12/editor per month. On the other hand, Adobe XD is not available for purchase as a standalone app and is available through the Creative Cloud All Apps subscription for advanced features.
Final Words
Both Adobe XD and Figma have their own advantages and disadvantages and it is important to consider completely understanding Figma vs Adobe XD before making the final decision. Figma is more expensive than Adobe XD but has a free version, while Adobe XD is cheaper but provides just a 7-day free trial.
If you’re still undecided and want developers for your next project, you can consider hiring Kodehash’s developers. Explore our cutting-edge design solutions and discover how we can empower your team to achieve unparalleled creative excellence.