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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.
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
Zeplin is great for Developer handoff and setting as source of truth for Design and Developemt. InViosion is the standard for communicating/testing design ideas and prototypes with stakeholders. Both applications offer unlimited projects. I use them on a daily basis at big enterprises and for small weekend projects.
I have been using Basecamp since 2008 to handle my client communications. I have gone through all of its three iterations.
I'd recommend Basecamp above the others because:
- It is a communication tool through and through. Looking at your description, that seems to be what you need. Zeplin is a developer handoff tool. It isn't designed to cover a more broad use case as you describe. Invision has some features that you want, but it is primarily a tool for building quick low-fidelity prototypes from website mockups. Figma is a great design tool. For the last two, communication is a secondary feature.
- It was designed by a design agency (37 Signals) for their own needs, which were quite similar to yours. (They later closed the agency to focus on Basecamp as a product full-time)
- It has flat pricing that doesn't count the number of projects, clients or team members you have. You don't have to think twice about opening another project or inviting another user. You always pay the same price.
- It can separate team and client communications. The team can talk about something without the client ever seeing it, in the same context.
- It can keep todo lists, which I think you will need anyway.
- Access control is based on projects. Every team member or client will only see the projects they are invited to. They will not even know the existence of others. (Except admins. They can see and join all projects)
- It is easy to understand and use. The design is free of clutter and easy on the eyes. Your clients (especially the tech-averse ones) will appreciate it.
- It has mobile/desktop apps with the full functionality of the web app. You won't have to wait for someone to sit down to get a quick approval.
The only real downside for me was the lack of language support in the user interface. You will be fine if your users understand some very basic written English. Some of my clients did not, so I had to walk them through it.
Pros of Figma
- Web-based application19
- Intuitive interface and perfect collaboration11
- Free software9
- Highly Collaborative8
- Works on both Mac and Windows8
- Great plugins, easy to extend7
- Large community, tutorials, documentation6
- Hands done the best design tool for collaboration!6
- Works on multiple OS's6
- Imports Sketch files6
- Prototyping, design files and comments all in one place5
- Interactive, event-based prototypes5
- No more syncing between Sketch and InVision4
- Import XD files1
Pros of Inkscape
- Free3
- Simple design2
- Easy to use2
- Vector Creation2
- Linux compatible2
- Powerful1
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Cons of Figma
- Limited Export options6
Cons of Inkscape
- Crashes sometimes1