Overview

Inkscape

Stacks116

Followers84

Votes12

Figma

Stacks4.2K

Followers2.5K

Votes101

Figma vs Inkscape: What are the differences?

Introduction

Figma and Inkscape are both popular design tools used in the creation and editing of digital graphics. While they share some similarities, there are key differences between the two software applications that set them apart. In this article, we will explore six crucial distinctions between Figma and Inkscape.

Collaboration and cloud-based design: One significant advantage of Figma is its cloud-based nature, allowing for effortless collaboration and real-time design updates. Multiple users can simultaneously work on the same file, making it ideal for remote teams. In contrast, Inkscape lacks cloud integration and primarily focuses on individual design tasks.
Platform compatibility: Figma is a web-based application that runs smoothly on any operating system without requiring installation. It is accessible through popular web browsers. On the other hand, Inkscape is a desktop-only application, which means it needs to be installed specifically for each operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
Learning curve and ease of use: Figma boasts a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced designers. It offers numerous pre-built templates, intuitive design tools, and powerful prototyping features. In comparison, Inkscape has a steeper learning curve and may be more challenging for novice users due to its extensive toolkit and complex functionalities.
Vector editing capabilities: While both Figma and Inkscape are capable of vector editing, their approaches differ. Figma focuses on web design and UI/UX workflows with advanced vector editing and excellent prototyping options. In contrast, Inkscape is a fully-fledged vector graphics editor, providing a broader and more extensive range of vector editing tools.
Availability of features: Figma provides a wide range of design features, including robust prototyping, team library, and design system capabilities. It also offers a vast library of plugins and integrations. Inkscape, on the other hand, offers more traditional design features such as bezier paths, node editing, gradient fills, and text editing tools. It lacks extensive prototyping and collaboration features like Figma.
Pricing model: Figma offers a freemium pricing model where individuals can use the tool for free with certain limitations. Teams or organizations can choose from different subscription plans depending on their needs. Inkscape, on the other hand, is completely free and open-source, making it an attractive option for those on a limited budget or who prefer open-source software.

In summary, Figma stands out with its cloud-based collaboration, platform compatibility, ease of use, web design focus, extensive feature set, and flexible pricing plans. Inkscape, on the other hand, shines with its robust vector editing capabilities, traditional design features, and being open-source. Understanding these key differences helps in choosing the right tool based on individual requirements and preferences.

Advice on Inkscape, Figma

Bobby

Feb 14, 2020

Needs advice

Hello, I want to start an unlimited graphic design service. (yes, yet another one, but bear with me)

It’s the second week that I’m working on this project, my goal is to test the market as soon as possible.

One element that is missing is the solution to handle communication between the clients and the designers.

• Mandatory: it needs to communicate instructions, progress/status, and design files (exported from Adobe Illustrator or similar). • Optionally it would also display the design inside the app so the files don’t need to be opened. • Optionally it would let the client easily mark the design where he wants revision.

• Mandatory: it needs to have unlimited clients and unlimited projects (I’ll have hundreds of clients and each will have at least one project) • Optionally it would auto-assign a new project to the first available designer, or let the designers choose themselves which project they want to work on • Optionally it would have groups (corresponding to a subscription plan) with different clients and different designers in each • Optionally it would communicate with other apps so that client and designer management tasks (access, payment, etc) can be automated

I’m open to all suggestions, not just the selection above. Ultimately I guess I’ll have a custom app developed on a no-code platform, but to begin with I need something simple and ready.

Reminder: it is only for graphic design, between my designers and my clients

169k views169k

Comments

Detailed Comparison

Inkscape	Figma
It is professional quality vector graphics software which runs on Windows, Mac OS X and Linux. This software can be used to create or edit vector graphics such as illustrations, diagrams, line arts, charts, logos and complex paintings.	Figma is the first interface design tool with real-time collaboration. It keeps everyone on the same page. Focus on the work instead of fighting your tools.
-	Online Sketch alternative; Free for small teams; Easy to use
Statistics
Stacks 116	Stacks 4.2K
Followers 84	Followers 2.5K
Votes 12	Votes 101
Pros & Cons
Pros 3 Free 2 Linux compatible 2 Vector Creation 2 Easy to use 2 Simple design Cons 1 Crashes sometimes	Pros 19 Web-based application 11 Intuitive interface and perfect collaboration 9 Free software 8 Works on both Mac and Windows 8 Highly Collaborative Cons 6 Limited Export options
Integrations
No integrations available	Trello Coda ProtoPie Principle Dropbox Slack Storybook Notion Pendo Zeplin

What are some alternatives to Inkscape, Figma?

Sketch

Easily create complex shapes with our state-of-the-art vector boolean operations and take advantage of our extensive layer styles.

Adobe Photoshop

It is the best in the world of graphic design and image processing software that will realize any of your ideas. Create and enhance photos, illustrations and 3D graphic objects.

Adobe XD

A vector-based tool developed and published by Adobe Inc for designing and prototyping user experience for web and mobile apps.

Zeplin

Collaboration app for designers & developers. Supports Sketch and Photoshop (on beta!).

Blender

It is the free and open source 3D creation suite. It supports the entirety of the 3D pipeline—modeling, rigging, animation, simulation, rendering, compositing and motion tracking, even video editing and game creation.

ProtoPie

It is the easiest tool used to turn your UI/UX design ideas into highly interactive prototypes for mobile, desktop, web, all the way to IoT. ProtoPie runs on macOS & Windows and the player app is on iOS and Android.

Readymag

Readymag—an online platform for website creation focused on design & creativity. Advanced typography. Powerful animations. Code injection & third-party tool integrations.

Affinity Designer

No bloat, no gimmicks, just all the tools you need, implemented how you always dreamed. It is a stripped back, pro-end workhorse that will always get your job done. It was created to thrive on the electric pace of the latest computing hardware. Live, responsive and incredibly fluid, it’s simply a joy to use.

Affinity Photo

It is born to work hand-in-hand with the latest powerful computer technology, it’s fully-loaded photo editor integrated across macOS, Windows and iOS.