Figma vs Sketch
Sketch kickstarted the modern UI design era, but Figma has since taken the crown, largely thanks to the browser and real-time collaboration. If you're choosing what to learn today, this comparison is fairly one-sided - but here's the honest picture.
Figma
Cross-platform, browser-based design with real-time collaboration - the industry standard.
Sketch
The Mac-only pioneer that helped define modern UI design tools.
Figma vs Sketch, side by side
| Aspect | Figma | Sketch |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | Runs in any browser, plus desktop apps for every OS. | macOS only - no Windows or web version. |
| Collaboration | Real-time multiplayer editing, the standout feature. | Improved cloud sharing, but not true live co-editing. |
| Cost | Genuinely useful free tier; paid plans per editor. | One-time or subscription license, Mac only. |
| Ecosystem | Enormous plugin and community library, strong hiring demand. | Solid plugins and a loyal base, but smaller momentum. |
| Momentum | The clear industry standard that teams expect today. | Still capable and loved by some Mac studios, but less dominant. |
The verdict
For almost anyone starting UI/UX in 2026, learn Figma. It works everywhere, collaboration is unmatched, the free tier lets you start now, and it's what hiring managers expect. Sketch remains a fine tool if you're on a Mac-only team that already uses it, but it's no longer where the industry is heading.
Choose Figma if
Anyone starting UI/UX today, freelancers, and teams that value real-time collaboration.
Choose Sketch if
Mac-only designers or teams already standardized on Sketch.
Ready to learn one (or both)?
Go from "which tool?" to actually shipping work with an in-depth, project-based course.
Just getting started? Try a free course
Beginner-friendly courses in Blender, Photoshop, Figma, Canva and Claude - free.