Adobe XD vs Sketch

Each and every sector is moving towards online platforms so they need to build user interfaces and for that, a vector graphics editing software is a mandatory requirement. Market is full of vector editing software which has different features and functionalities so there is a lot of confusion in choosing a software. Hence we will compare the two most popular vector graphic editing tools which are Adobe XD and Sketch. Both of these tools are used by multiple organizations and come with tons of features. These softwares can be used on different platforms and provides easy to use interface. Adobe XD and Sketch comes with paid as well as a trial period so anybody can use them for a certain time period and if he/she finds it useful they can purchase it.

What is Adobe XD?

Adobe XD is a vector-based UI/UX software which assists users in designing and prototyping works. It was developed by Adobe Incorporation and its initial version was launched in 2016 while the stable release was in 2021. It is available in different languages. It is useful for product designers, app designers, visual designers etc. It provides a simple user interface with advanced features like punchy colours, techy typefaces etc.

Advantages of Adobe XD

• It allows working with files from different tools like Illustrator, Photoshop etc. 
• It supports cloud functionality so files can be saved in the cloud and can be assessed from anywhere.
• Files sharing is easy and files can also be shared in read-only mode so no one can edit them.
• It comes with robust tools to allow precise designing.

Limitation of Adobe XD

• Exporting CSS along with designs is not allowed so an external plugin is required.
• Customization of shapes for vector design is limited.
• It is a costly software.

What is Sketch?

Sketch is computer software for editing vector graphics. It was developed by Sketch B.V which is a Dutch company. Initially, it was launched in 2010 and its stable version came in 2022. It supports only the mac operating system. It is available as a web platform also so to ease users.

Advantages of Sketch

• It provides industry-standard design features for making mobile and web designs.
• It allows third-party plugins to enhance its capabilities.
• It comes with a real-time sync feature.
• Presets and codes can be easily exported.

Disadvantages/Limitations of Sketch

• It does not support any operating system other than Mac.
• It is a heavy software and requires a large amount of RAM.
• It does not provide any free version, and only gives a trial period of 30 days.

Following is a table of differences between Adobe XD and Sketch:

	Adobe XD	Sketch
1.	It can be understood as a UI/UX designing tool which helps in prototyping and graphic designing work.	It can be understood as a graphic editing tool to create and manipulate vector designs.
2.	It was developed by Adobe Incorporation.	It was developed by Sketch B.V
3.	It is available for Windows as well as Mac operating systems.	It is not available for Windows and supports only mac.
4.	It allows prototyping features.	It lacks prototyping features.
5.	It comes with advanced functionalities like drag gesture and auto animate etc.	It comes with simple features to edit and manipulate vector graphics.
6.	It does not allow working with external plugins.	It supports external plugins to provide more features.
7.	Files are saved with .XD file extension.	It saves files with the .sketch extension.
8.	It offers 7 days free trial after which a subscription starts at $9.99 per month.	It offers 30 days free trial after which a subscription starts at $9 per month.