Essential UI Design Tools for Modern Designers
TL;DR:
- Figma, Sketch, and Adobe XD are the top three UI design tools most designers use
- Figma works in your browser and has excellent collaboration features
- Sketch is Mac-only but has the biggest plugin library
- Adobe XD connects well with other Adobe apps
- Start with Figma if you're new to UI design
- All three handle prototyping, but each has different strengths
Figma runs in your browser, which means it works on any computer. The collaboration features are excellent – you can watch other designers work in real-time and leave comments directly on designs. There's a generous free plan that covers most solo designers and small teams.
Sketch only works on Mac, but it's been around the longest and has the most mature plugin ecosystem. If you need specific functionality, there's probably a Sketch plugin for it. The vector editing tools are precise and the performance is solid.
Adobe XD makes sense if you're already using other Adobe apps. It handles the jump from static design to interactive prototype well, and you can pull assets from Photoshop or Illustrator without much fuss.
Getting Started with Each Tool
If you're new to UI design, start with Figma. The interface is clean, the learning curve is gentle, and you won't hit any paywalls while you're figuring things out.
For prototyping, all three tools let you create interactive mockups without coding. Adobe XD has particularly smooth animations, while Figma's prototyping features keep getting better with each update.
For team work, Figma wins hands down. Multiple people can work on the same file simultaneously, and the commenting system actually gets used (unlike most design feedback tools).
The bit most people miss is that your choice often depends more on your team's setup than the tool's features. If everyone's on Mac and already paying for Sketch, switching to Figma might not be worth the hassle. If you're working with developers who prefer browser-based tools, Figma makes handoff much easier.
Try the free versions first. Each tool has a different feel, and what works for other designers might not click with you.
FAQs
Which tool should I learn first?
Figma. It's free, works on any computer, and the skills transfer to other design tools easily.
Do I need to learn all three?
No. Pick one and get good at it. You can always learn others later if you switch jobs or projects.
Can these tools replace Photoshop for UI work?
Yes, for most UI design tasks. You might still need Photoshop for photo editing, but these tools handle interface design better.
Which tool do most companies use?
It varies, but Figma is becoming the standard, especially for teams. Sketch still has a strong presence in established design teams.
Jargon Buster
UI Design: Creating the visual interface that users interact with in apps and websites
Vector Editing: Design method that creates graphics using mathematical paths instead of pixels, so they stay crisp at any size
Plugin Ecosystem: Collection of add-ons that extend what the main software can do
Prototyping: Creating interactive versions of your designs that behave like the real thing
Wrap-up
You don't need to master all three tools. Pick one based on your situation – Figma for beginners and teams, Sketch for Mac users who want the most plugins, or Adobe XD if you're already in the Adobe ecosystem.
The learning curve exists with any tool, but it's not as steep as it looks. Most designers become comfortable with their chosen tool within a few weeks of regular use.
Roll your sleeves up and start with whichever tool appeals to you most. The best way to learn is by designing actual interfaces, not watching tutorials.
Ready to dive deeper into UI design? Join Pixelhaze Academy for structured courses and hands-on projects.