Figma vs Sketch: Key Differences and When to Use Each

Use Figma when you need real-time collaboration, cross-platform access, and cloud-based design. Choose Sketch if you prefer a macOS-only app with strong plugin support and offline work.

Quick Comparison

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

Factor	Figma	Sketch
Platform	Web-based, Windows, macOS, Linux	macOS only
Collaboration	Real-time multi-user editing	Single user, file sharing via cloud
Pricing	Free tier + subscription	One-time purchase + subscription for updates
Plugins	Growing plugin ecosystem	Mature and extensive plugins
Offline Access	Limited offline support	Full offline support
Prototyping	Built-in interactive prototyping	Prototyping via plugins or Sketch Cloud

Key Differences

Figma is a cloud-first design tool that runs in browsers and desktop apps, enabling seamless real-time collaboration. Multiple designers can work on the same file simultaneously, making it ideal for teams that need instant feedback and shared access.

Sketch is a native macOS application focused on individual design work with powerful offline capabilities. It has a mature plugin ecosystem that extends its functionality but lacks built-in real-time collaboration, relying on file sharing and version control tools.

While Figma supports cross-platform use and easy sharing via links, Sketch is limited to Mac users but offers more control over local files and offline work. Pricing models also differ, with Figma offering a free tier and subscription plans, whereas Sketch requires a one-time purchase plus optional subscription for updates.

Code Comparison

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

javascript

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

Output

A 100x100 blue rectangle 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')
var Rectangle = sketch.Shape.Rectangle
var document = sketch.getSelectedDocument()
var page = document.selectedPage

var rect = new Rectangle({
  parent: page,
  frame: { x: 0, y: 0, width: 100, height: 100 },
  style: {
    fills: [{ color: '#007FFF', fillType: sketch.Style.FillType.Color }]
  }
})

Output

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

When to Use Which

Choose Figma when you need easy access from any device, want to collaborate live with teammates, or prefer a cloud-based workflow without installation hassles.

Choose Sketch when you work primarily on macOS, require full offline access, or depend on a mature plugin ecosystem for advanced design workflows.

For teams focused on collaboration and cross-platform flexibility, Figma is the better choice. For solo designers or Mac-centric workflows needing offline reliability, Sketch remains strong.

Key Takeaways

Figma excels at real-time collaboration and cross-platform access.

Sketch is best for macOS users needing offline work and extensive plugins.

Figma uses a cloud-based model; Sketch is a native macOS app.

Choose based on your team's workflow and platform preferences.

Both support scripting but differ in API and environment.