Figma vs InVision: Key Differences and When to Use Each

Figma is a cloud-based design tool focused on real-time collaboration and vector graphics editing with browser-based access, while InVision specializes in prototyping and design workflow management with integration to other design tools. Figma offers an all-in-one design and prototyping environment, whereas InVision acts mainly as a prototyping and feedback platform.

Quick Comparison

Here is a quick side-by-side comparison of Figma and InVision based on key factors important for design and prototyping workflows.

Feature	Figma	InVision
Platform	Cloud-based, browser and desktop app	Cloud-based with desktop app for Studio
Primary Use	UI/UX design and prototyping	Prototyping and design collaboration
Collaboration	Real-time multi-user editing	Commenting and feedback, no real-time editing
Design Tools	Built-in vector editing and design system support	Limited design tools, relies on imports
Prototyping	Interactive prototypes with transitions	Advanced prototyping with animations
Integrations	Supports many plugins and APIs	Strong integrations with Sketch, Photoshop, and others

Key Differences

Figma is designed as an all-in-one design platform that allows multiple users to work on the same file simultaneously in the browser or desktop app. It includes powerful vector editing tools, design system management, and prototyping features all in one place. This makes it ideal for teams needing seamless collaboration and quick iteration.

InVision, on the other hand, focuses primarily on prototyping and design workflow management. It does not offer full design editing capabilities but instead integrates with other design tools like Sketch or Photoshop. InVision excels at creating interactive prototypes with advanced animations and gathering feedback through comments and version control.

While Figma emphasizes real-time collaboration and design creation, InVision is better suited for teams that want to prototype designs created elsewhere and manage feedback and handoff. Figma’s cloud-native approach means no files need to be sent back and forth, unlike InVision’s reliance on imported assets.

Code Comparison

Here is an example of how you might create a simple interactive prototype link in Figma using its built-in prototyping features.

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1. Select the frame or object you want to make interactive.
2. Click the "Prototype" tab in the right panel.
3. Drag the node to the target frame to create a link.
4. Set the interaction type (e.g., "On Click") and animation (e.g., "Navigate To").
5. Click "Present" to preview the prototype.

Output

An interactive prototype where clicking the object navigates to the linked frame.

InVision Equivalent

In InVision, creating a similar interactive prototype involves uploading your design and linking screens.

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1. Upload your design screens (e.g., from Sketch or Photoshop).
2. Open the prototype builder.
3. Click on an element and drag a hotspot to the target screen.
4. Choose the interaction type (e.g., "Tap") and animation.
5. Share the prototype link for preview and feedback.

Output

An interactive prototype where tapping hotspots navigates between screens with animations.

When to Use Which

Choose Figma when you need an all-in-one design and prototyping tool with real-time collaboration and cloud access. It is best for teams that want to design, prototype, and iterate quickly without switching apps.

Choose InVision if your workflow relies on other design tools for creation and you want advanced prototyping features with strong feedback and version control capabilities. It suits teams focused on prototyping and managing design handoff rather than full design creation.

Key Takeaways

Figma is a cloud-based all-in-one design and prototyping tool with real-time collaboration.

InVision focuses on prototyping and feedback, integrating with external design tools.

Use Figma for seamless design creation and iteration within one platform.

Use InVision when advanced prototyping and design workflow management are priorities.

Figma’s browser-based approach eliminates file transfers common in InVision workflows.