Sketch Versus Figma
By: Hannah Pratte
Tags: Design, Education, Sketch, Technology, Figma

Sketch Versus Figma — Symbols & Components

Both Sketch and Figma use symbols as a way to repeat elements within a design across multiple pages so that you don’t have to go through each page and make changes to each component. As a designer, this helps to streamline things more efficiently.

In Sketch, these are called Symbols. When you create a Symbol, it puts them on a separate page. For instance, after you make a button, your original Symbol gets moved to the Symbols page, and a flattened version ends up left behind. If you need to edit or change the color or shape of that button, all you have to do is go to the Symbols page to adjust, and everything will get updated to that particular element.

The symbols in Figma are referred to as Components. The main difference between the two platforms is that Figma’s Components are saved where you originally created them and are not moved to a separate page. When you want to make a new instance, you simply make a copy of the master Component, then edit where needed, and it will update. Figma’s way of handling Components is not as organized as Sketch, but its one clear advantage is that it’s simpler to use.

Sketch Versus Figma — Comments

Figma has a built-in comment section, which is great when giving feedback or suggestions to a design when working in a team-based environment. If you need to add notes to a particular design regarding a modification, then you can easily do this. Basically, it works similarly to a Google doc. Once those edits have been reconciled, you can update the file to being resolved. If you work remotely, this added feature is definitely a bonus.

Sketch does not offer this in-house commenting system, and you have to download a plug-in that makes commenting on others’ work possible. Keep in mind, it does have a small one-time fee attached. If you want to go the free route, you can download Zeplin, and use that integrated feature to collaborate with your team.

Is it possible that Sketch will update its platform to include an integrated commenting section? As Figma becomes more popular, then yes, I do believe Sketch will seriously consider this integration.

Sketch Versus Figma — Desktop App & Browser

Another difference between the two platforms is that Sketch is a desktop app only available for Apple computers while Figma is a web-based app. If you need to collaborate with your team, you will have to make sure you’re connected to the internet.

Figma does offer a desktop app, so if you’re designing offline, then this is possible. However, one thing to be aware of is that if you are working offline, you won’t be able to open up a new file, only the ones you have currently.

If you are working where you don’t have secure internet access, using Sketch might be your best bet, so long as you are using an Apple computer.

Sketch Versus Figma — Borders & Strokes

Both Sketch and Figma have the option to add outlines or padding around various objects. Though, Figma calls these Strokes and Sketch refers to them as Borders. Both do exactly the same thing just different jargon is used. You can alter the thickness of each outline around any object using the right side panel box in both platforms.

Borders in Sketch: