Figma vs Sketch vs Adobe XD: UI/UX Tools in 2026

Figma reshaped UI/UX work in the 2020s. Sketch keeps a loyal macOS-native following. Adobe XD's development has slowed since the failed Figma acquisition. In 2026, the choice is more obvious than ever — but the edge cases still matter.

Figma

Browser-based, multi-platform, real-time collaboration is its killer feature. $15/user/month Professional, $45/user/month Organization. Free starter tier is enough for solo designers. Plugin ecosystem is the largest in the category.

Sketch

macOS-only. $9-12/user/month subscription, $99 one-time legacy license still available. Best when the team is fully Mac-native and polish/aesthetic matters. Plugin ecosystem is smaller but high-quality.

Adobe XD

Development effectively paused since 2023. No major feature updates. Still works but feels increasingly abandoned. Avoid for new projects.

The Figma question post-Adobe

The 2022 acquisition was blocked in 2023, leaving Figma independent. Pricing has since increased, but the product remains the standard. Most teams should default to Figma in 2026.

Wrapping up

Figma is the default. Sketch for macOS-only teams that value native polish. Avoid Adobe XD for new work. Get Figma at the Figma discount for crypto checkout.