Adobe Illustrator vs Sketch: What are the differences?

Introduction

and are both popular graphic design software used by professionals in the industry. While both software have their own unique features, there are several key differences between them. In this article, we will explore these differences and highlight what sets them apart from each other.

1. User Interface: Adobe Illustrator has a more complex and feature-rich user interface, with a wide range of tools and options. Sketch, on the other hand, offers a simpler and more streamlined interface, making it easier for beginners to get started quickly.

2. Compatibility and Integration: Adobe Illustrator is part of the Adobe Creative Cloud suite and seamlessly integrates with other Adobe products like Photoshop and InDesign. It also offers extensive compatibility with various file formats. Sketch, on the other hand, is only available for macOS and focuses on being a standalone design tool without much emphasis on integration with other software.

3. Prototyping and Collaboration: Sketch has built-in features for prototyping and collaboration, making it easier for designers to create interactive prototypes and share them with clients or team members. Adobe Illustrator, although not designed specifically for prototyping, offers extensive tools for creating static visuals and illustrations.

4. Vector Editing: Adobe Illustrator is well-known for its powerful vector editing capabilities. It offers a wide range of tools and options for creating and manipulating vector shapes. Sketch, while also offering vector editing capabilities, has a more simplified approach and focuses on providing a more intuitive experience for designers.

5. Plugins and Extensions: Both Adobe Illustrator and Sketch support plugins and extensions to extend their functionality. However, the plugin ecosystem for Sketch is more extensive and active, with a larger community of developers creating and sharing plugins specifically tailored for Sketch.

6. Pricing Model: Adobe Illustrator is a part of the Adobe Creative Cloud suite and is subscription-based, requiring a monthly or annual payment to access the software. Sketch, on the other hand, offers a one-time purchase model, allowing users to pay once and have lifetime access to the software, along with one year of updates and support.

In summary, Adobe Illustrator and Sketch have their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Adobe Illustrator offers a more feature-rich and comprehensive design tool with extensive compatibility and integration options. Sketch, on the other hand, provides a simpler and more streamlined experience, with a focus on prototyping and collaboration. The choice between the two ultimately depends on the specific needs and preferences of the designer.