Figma vs Sketch: Key Differences and When to Use Each

Figma is a cloud-based design tool that supports real-time collaboration and works on any platform via a browser, while Sketch is a macOS-only app focused on vector design with a rich plugin ecosystem. Figma's web-based nature makes it ideal for teams, whereas Sketch excels in offline, Mac-native workflows.

Quick Comparison

Here is a quick side-by-side comparison of Figma and Sketch based on key factors.

Factor	Figma	Sketch
Platform Support	Web-based, Windows, macOS, Linux	macOS only
Collaboration	Real-time multi-user editing	Single user, file sharing via cloud services
Plugins & Extensions	Growing plugin library, easy to install	Large mature plugin ecosystem
Pricing	Free tier available, subscription-based	One-time purchase with optional subscription
Offline Access	Limited offline mode	Full offline functionality
Design Features	Vector tools, prototyping, design systems	Advanced vector tools, symbols, prototyping

Key Differences

Figma is built as a cloud-first tool, which means all your designs are saved online and can be accessed from any device with a browser. This enables real-time collaboration where multiple people can work on the same file simultaneously, making it perfect for teams and remote work.

In contrast, Sketch is a native macOS application that stores files locally by default. It offers a rich set of vector design tools and a mature plugin ecosystem but lacks built-in real-time collaboration. Users often rely on third-party cloud services to share and collaborate on files.

Figma’s cross-platform support means Windows and Linux users can join design workflows easily, while Sketch is limited to Mac users. Pricing models also differ: Figma offers a free tier with basic features and subscription plans, whereas Sketch requires a one-time purchase with optional renewal for updates.

Code Comparison

Here is how you create a simple rectangle with a fill color in Figma using its plugin API (JavaScript):

javascript

figma.showUI(__html__);

const rect = figma.createRectangle();
rect.resize(100, 100);
rect.fills = [{ type: 'SOLID', color: { r: 0, g: 0.5, b: 1 } }];
figma.currentPage.appendChild(rect);
figma.viewport.scrollAndZoomIntoView([rect]);

Output

A blue rectangle of 100x100 pixels appears on the current Figma page.

Sketch Equivalent

Here is how you create a simple rectangle with a fill color in Sketch using its JavaScript API:

javascript

var sketch = require('sketch/dom');
var ShapePath = sketch.ShapePath;

var document = sketch.getSelectedDocument();
var page = document.selectedPage;

var rect = new ShapePath({
  parent: page,
  frame: { x: 0, y: 0, width: 100, height: 100 },
  style: { fills: [{ color: '#007FFF' }] }
});

Output

A blue rectangle of 100x100 pixels appears on the current Sketch page.

When to Use Which

Choose Figma when you need seamless real-time collaboration, cross-platform access, and easy sharing without worrying about software installation. It’s ideal for teams working remotely or with mixed operating systems.

Choose Sketch if you are a Mac user who prefers a powerful native app with full offline access and a mature plugin ecosystem. It suits designers who work mostly solo or within Mac-centric environments.

Key Takeaways

Figma excels in real-time collaboration and cross-platform support via the web.

Sketch offers a powerful macOS-native experience with extensive plugins and offline use.

Figma’s pricing includes a free tier, while Sketch requires a one-time purchase.

Use Figma for team projects and mixed OS environments.

Use Sketch for Mac-only workflows and offline design needs.