Adobe XD vs InVision: What are the differences?

Key Differences Between Adobe XD and InVision

Adobe XD and InVision are both popular tools used for designing and prototyping websites and applications. While they share some similarities, there are several key differences that set them apart from each other. Here are the main differences between Adobe XD and InVision:

1. Prototyping Capabilities: Adobe XD offers robust built-in prototyping capabilities, allowing designers to create interactive and animated prototypes directly within the application. On the other hand, InVision primarily focuses on prototyping and collaboration, offering advanced features such as hotspots, transitions, and animations.

2. Design Tools and Features: Adobe XD provides a comprehensive set of design tools and features, including vector editing, layout grids, repeat grids, and plugins support. In comparison, InVision focuses more on collaboration and usability testing, offering features like commenting, annotations, and user feedback tools.

3. Integration with Other Tools: Adobe XD seamlessly integrates with other Adobe Creative Cloud apps such as Photoshop and Illustrator, allowing for a smooth workflow between different design tools. In contrast, InVision offers integrations with a wide range of design tools like Sketch, Figma, and Adobe Creative Cloud, offering flexibility and compatibility for designers.

4. Share and Collaboration: InVision excels in its collaboration features, allowing users to easily share designs with stakeholders, gather feedback, and manage design iterations. It provides real-time collaboration and project management tools, making it a preferred choice for team collaboration. Adobe XD also offers sharing and collaboration features, but they are not as robust as InVision's.

5. Animation and Microinteractions: Adobe XD provides more powerful animation and microinteraction capabilities, allowing designers to create complex and realistic animations. It offers a timeline feature with extensive control over animation properties. InVision, on the other hand, focuses more on user flow and interaction design, providing simpler and more streamlined animation tools.

6. Pricing and Licensing: Adobe XD is available as part of the Adobe Creative Cloud subscription, which offers a range of pricing options for individuals and teams. In contrast, InVision offers a free plan with limited features and several paid plans that cater to different user needs, including individual, team, and enterprise options.

In summary, while both Adobe XD and InVision are powerful tools for designing and prototyping websites and applications, they differ in terms of features, focus, and pricing options. Adobe XD offers robust prototyping and design tools with integration capabilities, while InVision excels in collaboration features and usability testing. The choice between the two depends on the specific needs of the designer or team.