Figma vs the World: Top Alternative Tools Compared

Figma has quickly become one of the most popular design tools for UI/UX designers, developers, and product teams. Its cloud-based features, easy-to-use interface, and real-time collaboration tools make it a favorite for individuals and design teams all over the world.

But Figma is not the only option. Many designers are looking for alternatives because of cost, performance, or personal preferences. Whether you're just starting out in design or you're part of a large design team, it’s good to know what other tools are available and how they compare to Figma.

This blog will help you explore the top Figma alternatives and understand how they perform in real-life design workflows.

Why Figma Is the Gold Standard (for Now)

Figma offers a powerful design experience right inside your browser. You don't need to install any software. You can collaborate in real time with your team, leave comments, and share designs with developers instantly. Let’s take a quick look at what makes Figma stand out:

Key Features of Figma

• Web-based and works on all platforms (Windows, Mac, Linux)

• Real-time collaboration

• Built-in prototyping

• Developer handoff tools (like code and design specs)

• Massive plugin and template community

Pros of Figma

• No need to download software

• Easy to learn for beginners

• Great for teams and remote work

• Regular updates and new features

Cons of Figma

• Needs internet connection to access full features

• Can be expensive for larger teams

• Performance issues with very large files

What to Look for in a Figma Alternative

Before we look at the other tools, let’s understand what you should be looking for in a Figma alternative:

Important Features to Compare

• Real-time collaboration: Can multiple people work together on the same file?

• Prototyping tools: Can you make interactive designs?

• Design to development handoff: Can developers easily get code or assets?

• Cross-platform support: Does the tool work on Windows, Mac, or web?

• Pricing: Is there a free version or free trial?

• Performance: Is it fast and reliable, even for big projects?

Now that we know what to compare, let’s look at the top Figma alternatives.

Figma vs Adobe XD

About Adobe XD

Adobe XD is a design and prototyping tool created by Adobe. It is built for UI/UX design and works well with other Adobe tools like Photoshop and Illustrator.

Key Differences

• Figma is cloud-based; Adobe XD needs to be installed

• Adobe XD offers stronger animation features

• Figma is better for collaboration

Pricing

Adobe XD is part of the Adobe Creative Cloud, which means you may need a subscription to access all features.

Best For

Designers who already use Adobe products and want stronger animation tools.

Figma vs Sketch

About Sketch

Sketch is one of the earliest UI/UX design tools. It is simple, fast, and has a loyal user base.

Key Differences

• Sketch is Mac-only; Figma works on all platforms

• Figma supports live collaboration; Sketch does not (except via Sketch for Teams)

• Both tools have a strong plugin ecosystem

Pricing

Sketch offers a one-time purchase or a subscription model. No free version is available.

Best For

Mac users who prefer offline design tools and want full control over their files.

Figma vs Canva

About Canva

Canva is a drag-and-drop design tool made for non-designers. It’s easy to use and perfect for creating quick visuals like social media posts, presentations, and simple wireframes.

Key Differences

• Canva is not meant for complex UI/UX work

• Figma has more advanced features

• Canva is easier for beginners

Pricing

Canva has a free version and an affordable Pro version with more features.

Best For

Beginners, social media managers, and marketers who need quick designs.

Figma vs Penpot

About Penpot

Penpot is an open-source design tool that runs in the browser. It is made for designers and developers and focuses on privacy and flexibility.

Key Differences

• Both are browser-based, but Penpot is open-source

• Penpot is newer and has fewer plugins

• Strong focus on team collaboration and code integration

Pricing

Completely free and open-source.

Best For

Teams that care about privacy, open-source software, and working closely with developers.

Figma vs UXPin

About UXPin

UXPin is a design tool that focuses on building interactive prototypes. It allows you to use logic and conditions, similar to real apps.

Key Differences

• UXPin has advanced interactivity features

• Figma is easier for basic designs and collaboration

• UXPin has a steeper learning curve

Pricing

UXPin offers a free trial but can be costly depending on the plan.

Best For

Designers working on complex UX workflows and high-fidelity prototypes.

Figma vs Lunacy by Icons8

About Lunacy

Lunacy is a free design tool by Icons8. It works offline and is available on Windows, Mac, and Linux.

Key Differences

• Lunacy works offline; Figma is web-based

• Lunacy has built-in assets like icons and illustrations

• Figma offers better team features

Pricing

100% free to use.

Best For

Freelancers and designers who want an offline tool with lots of built-in content.

Figma vs InVision Studio

About InVision Studio

InVision Studio was created to work alongside other InVision tools like Boards and DSM (Design System Manager).

Key Differences

• InVision Studio has great animation tools

• Figma is better for real-time work and team projects

• InVision as a company is focusing more on their collaboration platform than the design tool

Pricing

InVision offers limited access to Studio; pricing varies for full team features.

Best For

Teams already using InVision's suite of products.

Quick Comparison Table

Tool	Real-time Collab	Platforms	Prototyping	Free Tier	Best For
Figma	✅ Yes	Web, Mac, Windows	✅ Strong	✅	Most UX/UI teams
Adobe XD	⚠️ Limited	Mac, Windows	✅ Moderate	⚠️ Trial	Adobe users
Sketch	❌ Native Only	Mac only	✅ Basic	❌	Mac designers
Canva	✅ Yes	Web, Mobile	⚠️ Light	✅	Beginners & marketers
Penpot	✅ Yes	Web	✅ Good	✅	Open-source users
UXPin	✅ Yes	Web	✅ Advanced	⚠️ Trial	Complex UX work
Lunacy	❌ No Live Collab	Win, Mac, Linux	✅ Basic	✅	Offline designers
InVision	⚠️ Limited	Mac, Windows	✅ OK	⚠️ Trial	Existing InVision users

How to Choose the Right Tool for Your Team

Consider Your Team Size

If you're working solo, you may not need all the collaboration tools Figma offers. A simple, offline tool like Lunacy or Sketch might work better.

Look at Your Budget

Open-source tools like Penpot or free ones like Lunacy are great for startups. Larger teams may prefer paying for more robust features in Figma or Adobe XD.

Check Platform Compatibility

Figma and Penpot are great if your team uses different operating systems. Sketch is only for Mac users.

Think About Features You Really Need

Do you need advanced animations? Go for UXPin or Adobe XD. Want quick and easy designs? Try Canva. Need deep developer integration? Figma or Penpot might be better.

Don’t Forget Performance

If your internet is slow or unreliable, offline tools like Lunacy or Sketch are a safer choice than Figma.

Conclusion

Figma has earned its place as a top design tool, but it’s not the only option. Depending on your needs, budget, and team setup, there are many great alternatives worth exploring.

Whether you care about open-source tools like Penpot, need the deep features of UXPin, or want a quick-and-easy platform like Canva, there's something out there for everyone.

Take time to try a few of these tools. Most offer free trials or versions, so you can see what works best for your design workflow.