Figma vs Adobe XD: Current capabilities and migration considerations

Figma and Adobe XD are separate UI/UX design products. Adobe and Figma ended their proposed transaction on December 18, 2023. This comparison considers the design, collaboration and migration tasks that matter when choosing a tool; Adobe XD is in maintenance mode.

In this article, you can find the answer after the detailed review of Figma and Adobe XD.

Figma Vs. Adobe XD

What Is Figma

Figma is a cloud-based vector interface design and primarily browser-based prototyping tool, with a desktop app available for macOS and Windows. Figma has recently become one of the most widely used UI/UX design tools because of its user-friendly interface, extensive feature set, and robust collaboration options. Figma is a simple pick for UI designers searching for a tool easily adaptable to their design flow because it has flexible plans that's ideal for individuals and small teams.

What Is Adobe XD

Adobe XD is a desktop application for UI design and prototyping. It is in maintenance mode. Existing users should check their account entitlement and the availability of sharing and preview features before relying on it for a project.

Differences Between Figma and Adobe XD

Pricing

Figma plans distinguish seats, team files, collaboration features and AI usage. Check Figma’s current pricing for the intended account and billing cycle.

Adobe XD access for existing users depends on their Adobe account and entitlement. Historical trial and subscription prices should not be treated as current offers.

Collaboration

Figma was created with collaboration in mind. Real-time team editing of projects is possible, along with the ability to track changes and incorporate comments and suggestions directly into designs. You can freely share tasks with others so they can remark without downloading any additional files or software.

With Adobe's Coediting feature, you may invite additional editors to collaborate on a document while it is saved to the cloud. However, in most cases, your collaborator needs to download the file shared by you.

Developer Handoff

Regarding handing off your files to developers, Figma has a competitive advantage because of its collaboration features. A single link may allow developers to view prototypes, comment, and export materials.

The development share function in Adobe XD allows you to mark design files and components for export. Developers can then use a single link to download these materials to their machines.

Operating System and Platform

Although the company does provide desktop versions for both Windows and Mac, Figma is primarily a cloud-based application.

Adobe XD is a desktop application that syncs with Adobe's Creative Cloud.

Vector Manipulation

Figma provides additional versatility when it comes to manipulating vectors. The application takes advantage of vector networks, which let you join numerous lines at a single location. Adobe XD's paths limit you to a series of linked points (called nodes).

Tutorials

Figma provides brief written lectures and design exercises to assist you in starting your design journey.

Step-by-step video tutorials and recorded live streaming are all provided by Adobe XD.

Similarities Between Figma and Adobe XD

• Both products offer desktop applications, but you must be online to get the entire feature set.
• Figma and Adobe XD have a broad selection of design tools, such as a pen for vector drawing, shape tools, text, and various color and effect possibilities.
• Adobe XD and Figma enable a design method that includes responsive interfaces and desktop and mobile app creation.
• Both support collaborative features, but XD only makes them available when you store your design file in the cloud.
• The CSS, iOS, and Android design specifications are in both Figma and Adobe XD.
• You can learn about the software and design in general using the free tutorials, guidelines, and other learning resources provided by both Figma and Adobe XD.
• Designers can use built-in plugins from Adobe XD and Figma.

Pros and Cons of Each

Every coin has two sides; the same is true with design software like Figma and Adobe XD. These tools have many incredible features that can entice any user. On the other hand, there are some things for which everyone would prefer to have a replacement. Below are specifics about their advantages and disadvantages:

Pros and Cons of Figma

Pros

• Real-time Collaboration. Figma has simplified the task by enabling real-time collaboration between all team members. As a result, the work is transparent because each team member can see the editing done.
• Good for handing off design to developers as it allows the export of CSS design code.
• Easy file sharing by the link which can be set different access permissions to.
• Includes all the tools needed to develop a prototype design and is easily accessible to users.
• Able to open the necessary files from any internet-connected compute.
• Various plugins available for users to explore more possibilities.

Cons

• Cannot be utilized without an active internet connection. This is an essential factor in why many people choose not to use Figma, as it constantly requires an active online connection.
• Global colors are lacking - Figma's module lacks global colors, making it challenging to personalize a file.
• Users can only search for a file or a component once it has been posted into the team library, which can be a challenging choice for independent contractors.
• Requires sufficient RAM and high-quality graphics cards - Figma is definitely a tool with high demands of device.

Pros and Cons of Adobe XD

Pros

• Adobe XD is simple to use, and is integrated with the Adobe Creative Cloud.
• Existing Adobe XD users should confirm their account entitlement; this article does not promise a currently available free plan or trial.
• Able to launch your design on various iOS, Android, and web application screen sizes after it has been generated.
• It has natively adaptable/responsive drawn elements.
• It is capable of cloud storage with associated assets.
• Works well with many plugins and app integrations and easily connects to the library.

Cons

• Projects cannot be exported to PSD, a format of Adobe family, and many other file formats. Overall, there are too few features and file export options.
• Customized shapes are not an option in Adobe XD. Additional to circles, ovals, squares, and rectangles, no other forms may be designed.
• You need a plugin to retrieve the CSS of the exported design.
• Adobe XD doesn’t support the flexible real-time collaboration. Thus, even though you are working together, other people in the file are just a ghost who are moving things.
• Keeping up with that much upgrading of the desktop software can be laborious and it is not always bug-free.
• It will only function with Mac OS if you want to view smartphone prototypes in action on actual devices.

What's next after the proposed Adobe–Figma transaction

The proposed Adobe–Figma transaction ended on December 18, 2023, as recorded in Adobe’s announcement of December 18, 2023. It was not a completed acquisition, and this event is not a reason to assume that Figma files will move to Adobe.

If you are evaluating a change of design tool, base the decision on current functionality, access requirements, costs and the results of a representative migration.

Back Up All Important Files

The proposed transaction did not proceed, so there is no Adobe transfer timeline to follow. Recheck current Figma announcements before making migration decisions.

For a migration review, inventory source files and libraries, confirm supported export formats, and compare a representative imported file with the original. Record any changes to fonts, components, variables and prototype connections.

Before switching tools, keep a usable backup and agree on acceptance criteria with designers and developers. A backup should be opened and checked, not assumed complete because a download succeeded.

Opt for Another Excellent UI/UX Design Tool - Pixso

Pixso is one option to evaluate for UI design, prototyping and collaboration. Test the workflow with your own files before deciding whether it fits your team.

Pixso provides a shared workspace for design and review. Compare the functions needed for your project rather than assuming that any two products have identical features.

Pixso access and limits depend on the plan. Review current Pixso pricing for individual and team access, file limits, seats and AI usage.

Try a small design and review task in Pixso, then check the result with the people who will use it. Confirm the required plan before moving a team project.