Figma vs Penpot: Key Differences and When to Use Each

Both Figma and Penpot are web-based design tools for UI/UX, but Figma is a proprietary, widely adopted platform with rich collaboration features, while Penpot is an open-source alternative focused on flexibility and privacy. Figma offers more integrations and polished UI, whereas Penpot appeals to teams wanting open standards and self-hosting options.

Quick Comparison

Here is a quick side-by-side look at key factors between Figma and Penpot.

Feature	Figma	Penpot
Type	Proprietary SaaS	Open-source SaaS & self-hosted
Platform	Web, Windows, Mac, Linux (via browser)	Web, self-hosted on any OS
Collaboration	Real-time multi-user editing	Real-time multi-user editing
Pricing	Free tier + paid plans	Free and open-source
Integrations	Many third-party plugins and APIs	Limited plugins, API in progress
File Format	Proprietary .fig	Open SVG-based format

Key Differences

Figma is a mature, commercial design tool known for its smooth real-time collaboration and extensive plugin ecosystem. It runs fully in the browser and offers desktop apps, making it accessible on almost any device. Its proprietary file format and cloud storage mean users rely on Figma's servers.

Penpot is an open-source alternative that emphasizes openness and control. It uses standard SVG for files, allowing easier interoperability. Teams can self-host Penpot for full data privacy and customization. While collaboration is supported, its plugin ecosystem and integrations are less developed compared to Figma.

In summary, Figma suits teams wanting a polished, ready-to-use platform with rich features, while Penpot appeals to those prioritizing open standards, privacy, and customization.

Code Comparison

Both tools allow creating a simple rectangle shape with text. Here's how you might create a rectangle with the label "Hello" in Figma using its plugin API.

typescript

const rect = figma.createRectangle();
rect.resize(100, 50);
rect.fills = [{ type: 'SOLID', color: { r: 0, g: 0.5, b: 1 } }];
const text = figma.createText();
text.characters = 'Hello';
text.x = 10;
text.y = 15;
figma.currentPage.appendChild(rect);
figma.currentPage.appendChild(text);

Output

Creates a blue rectangle 100x50 px with the text 'Hello' inside on the current Figma page.

Penpot Equivalent

Penpot uses SVG and web standards. Here's how you might create a similar rectangle with text using SVG markup inside Penpot's editor or custom plugin.

xml

<svg width="100" height="50">
  <rect width="100" height="50" fill="#007FFF" />
  <text x="10" y="30" fill="#FFFFFF" font-family="Arial" font-size="16">Hello</text>
</svg>

Output

Renders a blue rectangle 100x50 px with white text 'Hello' positioned inside.

When to Use Which

Choose Figma when you need a polished, widely supported design tool with strong collaboration, extensive plugins, and cloud convenience. It's ideal for teams working remotely or requiring seamless integration with other tools.

Choose Penpot if you want an open-source, privacy-focused tool that you can self-host and customize. It's great for teams valuing open standards, data control, and flexibility over a large plugin ecosystem.

Key Takeaways

Figma is a polished, proprietary tool with rich collaboration and plugin support.

Penpot is open-source, supports self-hosting, and uses open SVG standards.

Figma suits teams needing ready-to-use cloud design with many integrations.

Penpot fits teams prioritizing privacy, customization, and open formats.

Both support real-time collaboration but differ in ecosystem maturity.