Figma is a popular web-based vector graphics editor known for its real-time collaboration and version control features, making it a top choice for UI/UX design.
While Figma offers excellent options for collaborative design and prototyping, it may not suit every user, as some find it complicated or too expensive.
As a result, many are exploring Figma alternatives that can offer similar functionalities, such as Penpot, which is free and open source.
With over 50 alternatives available for various platforms like Mac, Windows, and iPhone, it is important to find a solution that fits your workflow and budget.
As Figma continues to raise prices, with an estimated $700M in annual recurring revenue as of June 2024, it’s becoming increasingly important to explore other options for design teams.
Choosing the right design tool can also help improve your search engine optimization by streamlining your design processes, speeding up project delivery, and improving the overall user experience.
Worldwide Rank and SEO Metrics of Figma
- Domain Authority: 80
- SEMrush Global Rank: 1,923
- SimilarWeb Global Rank: 3,205
- SimilarWeb Country Rank: #422 in the United States
- Total Traffic: More than 30 million
- Bounce Rate: 27%
- Average Visit Duration: Over 5 minutes
What Can You Do With Figma?
- Create, edit, and share vector-based user interface designs and prototypes.
- Collaborate with teams in real time on design projects.
- Utilize plugins and integrations to enhance productivity.
- Export assets for developers with ease.
- Manage design systems with shared libraries and components.
- Work from anywhere with a web-based platform or desktop app.
- Access a free plan for individuals or small teams.
Why Do You Need Alternatives to Figma?
- Pricing Concerns: Figma’s subscription-based pricing may not suit every budget.
- Internet Dependency: Its cloud-based nature requires a stable internet connection.
- Advanced Features: Some tools offer unique functionalities like advanced prototyping or better offline usability.
- System Compatibility: Figma is web-first, which might not be ideal for users seeking platform-specific performance (e.g., macOS optimizations).
- Industry-Specific Needs: Some industries require specialized tools or compliance that Figma doesn’t provide.
List of the 10 Best Alternatives to Figma
Adobe
Website: https://www.adobe.com/products/xd.html
Launched: 2017
Features: UI/UX design, prototyping, collaboration, integration with Adobe Creative Cloud.
Is it free?: Offers a free starter plan; premium plans available.
Adobe XD is a powerful Figma alternative that integrates seamlessly with Adobe Creative Cloud. It provides tools for designing, prototyping, and sharing interactive user experiences. Its offline capabilities make it a standout choice for designers who need a robust tool without constant internet access. Adobe XD also supports co-editing and integrates with tools like Photoshop and Illustrator.
Sketch
Website: https://www.sketch.com
Launched: 2010
Features: Design systems, vector editing, collaboration (via cloud), and prototyping.
Is it free?: No, offers a 30-day free trial; paid plans required.
Sketch is a macOS-exclusive design tool favored for its lightweight performance and intuitive interface. It supports extensive plugin ecosystems and is ideal for creating and managing design systems. This Figma alternative is particularly popular among freelancers and small teams focused on macOS development.
InVision
Website: https://www.invisionapp.com
Launched: 2011
Features: Prototyping, design sharing, real-time feedback, and collaboration.
Is it free?: Limited free plan; premium subscriptions available.
InVision offers a robust platform for creating high-fidelity prototypes and gathering stakeholder feedback. Its visual collaboration tools make it perfect for larger teams that require feedback from non-designers. This Figma alternative emphasizes the prototyping process, making it a top choice for user testing.
Canva
Website: https://www.canva.com
Launched: 2013
Features: Graphic design, wireframing, templates, collaboration.
Is it free?: Yes, with optional premium features.
Canva is a versatile design tool for non-designers and professionals alike. While it’s not as feature-rich for UI/UX design as Figma, it excels in ease of use, collaboration, and pre-made templates. This Figma alternative is ideal for teams seeking a simpler, more accessible design tool.
Axure Software Solutions
Website: https://www.axure.com
Launched: 2002
Features: Prototyping, wireframing, advanced interactions, and documentation.
Is it free?: No, offers a free trial; paid plans required.
Axure RP focuses on creating detailed wireframes and prototypes with advanced interactions and logic. This Figma alternative is excellent for complex projects that require extensive user flow mapping and documentation.
Framer
Website: https://www.framer.com
Launched: 2014
Features: Design, prototyping, interactive components, code support.
Is it free?: Yes, with premium plans available.
Framer combines design and code for creating high-fidelity prototypes. It’s perfect for designers looking to build interactive UI components without leaving the design tool. This Figma alternative is popular among teams focused on product animations.
Moqups
Website: https://www.moqups.com
Launched: 2012
Features: Wireframing, mockups, and collaboration.
Is it free?: Limited free plan; paid plans required.
Moqups simplifies wireframing and mockup creation, focusing on early-stage ideation. This Figma alternative is best for quick concept validation and collaborative brainstorming sessions.
CorelDRAW
Website: https://www.coreldraw.com/
Launched: 2017
Features: Vector editing, web and desktop apps, and design sharing.
Is it free?: Yes, with a premium version available.
CorelDRAW offers cross-platform compatibility and a user-friendly interface. It’s great for creating vectors, UI designs, and illustrations. This Figma alternative caters to users who need a lightweight, all-in-one solution.
Proto.io
Website: https://www.proto.io
Launched: 2011
Features: Prototyping, animations, user testing.
Is it free?: Offers a free trial; paid plans required.
Proto.io specializes in creating fully interactive prototypes that simulate the final product. This Figma alternative is ideal for testing user flows and gathering feedback before development begins.
Penpo
Website: https://penpot.app
Launched: 2021
Features: Open-source design, prototyping, real-time collaboration.
Is it free?: Yes, completely free.
Penpot is a unique, open-source Figma alternative that’s gaining traction for its flexibility and community-driven development. Designed for cross-functional teams, Penpot supports vector editing, prototyping, and collaboration without the need for proprietary licenses. Its browser-based platform is accessible across all operating systems, making it ideal for teams with diverse setups.
Conclusion
Figma remains a leader in UI/UX design, but alternatives like Adobe XD, Sketch, and InVision offer specialized features that may better align with your needs. Whether you’re looking for offline access, advanced prototyping, or compatibility with specific platforms, exploring these tools ensures you find the perfect fit for your workflow. Each alternative provides unique strengths, from affordable solutions to premium features, catering to teams of all sizes and skill levels.
FAQs
1. What is the best free alternative to Figma?
Lunacy is a great free alternative to Figma, offering offline support, compatibility with Sketch files, and essential design features.
2. Is Adobe XD better than Figma?
Adobe XD is better for offline use and integrates seamlessly with Adobe Creative Suite, while Figma excels in real-time collaboration and cloud-based workflows.
3. Can I use Figma alternatives for team collaboration?
Yes, tools like InVision, Sketch (via cloud), and Framer support team collaboration with varying degrees of real-time or asynchronous features.
4. Are these alternatives compatible with macOS and Windows?
Most alternatives, like Adobe XD, InVision, and Gravit Designer, support both macOS and Windows. Sketch, however, is exclusive to macOS.
5. Which tool is ideal for advanced prototyping?
Framer and Proto.io are excellent for creating interactive, high-fidelity prototypes with advanced animations and user testing options.
