If you are looking for Sketch alternatives, then you should probably consider trying Figma.
The primary reason we recommend Figma is because it supports Sketch import. It has the latest features a modern designing tool must-have. Also, most of the features are available in the free version.
Why Figma?
Here are some highlight features of Figma:
- Supports Sketch import.
- Browser-based so works on any platform including Linux, Chrome OS, and Mac OS.
- Multiplayer co-editing for easy collaboration with devs and designers.
- Cloud Save (also supports downloading the project as .fig file)
- Design System (not available in Free version)
Limitations of Figma
- Does not support plugins (coming soon)
- For example, if you are used to arranging artboards in Sketch with the help of plugins; then what used to be a simple keyboard short
c ut is now a whole lot of manual effort.
- For example, if you are used to arranging artboards in Sketch with the help of plugins; then what used to be a simple keyboard short
- Limited Resources (templates, UI Kits, libraries, etc.)
- Some limitations with components(symbols in Sketch) migration.
Other Sketch Alternatives for PC
Let us look at some of the other tools that are out there:
1. InVision Studio
There has been a lot of excitement around this designing tool but currently, InVision Studio‘s features are limited. Most of its features are coming soon so its currently not the best option.
2. UXPin
UXPin has a lot of features that you will not find in any other designing tools. Features like custom CSS and keyframe animations are provided by it to us. It might take a while to learn how it works. So it is not optimal. But you can give it a try.
3. Adobe XD
Adobe XD has a nice approach to making lists. It is fast and clean. You can save quite some time with its features.
Adobe XD still has some limitations around components. It seems that components cannot be resized and can only get text overrides. Because of this, it may require you to work repetitively for different screen sizes.
If you are interested
Figma’s future?
The answer is uncertain. But considering Figma has become a mainstream tool for designing apps. It is worthwhile to dwell on its features and basics of using it. The feature that could be a game-changer is:
Plugin Support
Figma has promised us that they will introduce plugins soon. This means that the capability of Figma will increase a lot and it will improve with time.
The beta program for Figma plugins has already started and we can assume that the plugins will be as good as on Sketch.
Saying this the future for Figma does not look dull. And investing your time and effort will certainly not go to waste.
Can I run Sketch in Windows?
The answer is yes, with Lunacy.
You can’t use Sketch itself in windows with an easier method. Lunacy is an extension of Sketch which made it possible for PC users to open, edit, and store .sketch files.
Lunacy is fully compatible with Sketch and is completely free. It is a full-fledged editor that is easy to use, fast, and doesn’t require an internet connection.
With Lunacy, you can save .sketch files, inspect designs, export assets, edit objects, and other functions provided by sketch. It is not on par with Sketch on Mac but the team is working on making it better.
Conclusion
If you ask me, Figma is the best alternative to Sketch for Windows. Figma is stable, intuitive and most of its features are free. The plugin support in Figma (similar to plugins in Sketch) is also coming soon.
If you haven’t tried Figma already, I highly suggest you to try it.
Learn more about Figma and how it compares with Sketch, check this article Sketch Vs Figma.
