Sketch has pioneered the UI/UX design space with a native Mac app. It’s a preferred choice for the major organizations out there. However, Sketch isn’t available on the world’s most popular desktop OS – Windows. Sketch hasn’t revealed any plans to bring the software to Windows either. If you are starting out with UI/UX design on Windows then look for these Sketch alternatives to create eye-catching websites and apps.
Sketch Alternatives for Windows
In the list below, we will talk about our preferred choice with pros and cons for each software. Let’s get started with the hottest trend in the industry – Figma.
1. Figma
Figma picks up where the Sketch has left. First up, Figma is only available on the web. Meaning, you can access it across all the desktop OS including Mac, Windows, Linux, and Chrome OS. Figma’s core strength lies with real-time collaboration. It’s basically Google Docs for the UI design team.
Other features include rich UI/UX design tools, huge library of templates, Figma plugins support, free offering for the first three projects, and more.
Pros
- Best in class collaboration features
- Packed with features
- Huge template library available on the web
- Large numbers of tutorials out there
- Excellent keyboard shortcuts support
- Suitable for creating illustrations like logos as well
Cons
- Lacks offline support
- Lacks native apps for Windows and Mac. Only offers a PWA (Progressive Web App)
- Lower extension quality
Price
$12 per editor per month.
Visit Figma
2. Adobe XD
Before you go ahead and dismiss Adobe XD as a Figma alternative, hear us out. XD is a breath of fresh air among all the Adobe apps out there with a new and intuitive UI. Unlike Photoshop and Lightroom, Adobe XD looks and feels like a modern tool designed to keep the current era of designers in mind. And what’s more? Adobe offers a native app for both Windows and Mac.
Adobe XD offers online collaboration, plugins, templates, and all the possible design tools to start your next project on the go. Getting confused between our top two recommendations? Check out the link above to learn more about key differences between the two.
Pros
- Native apps for Windows and Mac
- Excellent plugin support
- Rich features with a capable Pen tool
- A good number of online tutorials and community support
- Integration with other Adobe apps
- Included in the Adobe Creative Cloud
Cons
- Online collaboration isn’t as good as Figma
- Creative Cloud pack is expensive
Price
$9.99 per month.
Visit Adobe XD
3. InVision
Among the powerful trio, Sketch, Figma, and Adobe XD, InVision has made a name for itself with a thoughtful design and a good number of features on offer. The app is perfectly suitable for apps and website design.
InVision used to be quite well-known in the early days in the design community. However, the arrival of Figma and Adobe XD has put a dent in its popularity these days. The company wants to win back designers with new features and an all-in-one solution for professional-quality screen designs and smooth team collaboration.
Pros
- Ability to import Sketch files
- Suitable for wireframing and prototyping
- Sync and share projects with others using a simple link
- Integration with other InVision apps
Cons
- Lack of plugins supportÂ
- Smaller and less active communities compared to Figma and Adobe XDÂ
- Lack of online tutorialsÂ
Price
The free plan allows you to create three active projects with up to 10 users in sharing and its $7.95 per month after that.
Visit InVision
4. Lunacy
At some point, most UI/UX software will ask you to upgrade to a paid plan. If you are just starting out and don’t want to shell out money then look no further and go with Lunacy. As of now, the software is completely free to download and use.
The company claims to deliver ‘mouth-watering performance improvements’ over the current leaders. We tried it ourselves and yes, Lunacy does feel quick compared to Adobe XD and slightly above Figma. Being a part of the icon8 family, Lunacy comes with built-in assents to import images, icons, and more to the design project.Â
Pros
- Compatible with Sketch files
- Built-in icons, photos, vector illustrations
- Native Windows app and works offline
- Multiple languages support
- Built-in dark mode
- Completely free
Cons
- Lack of in-depth tutorials online but has support forums
- Small plugin library
Price
Free
Visit Lunacy
5. Vectr
Vectr is perfectly suitable for those getting started with UI design. The software is available on both the web and desktop. Vectr achieves cross-platform compatibility without requiring you to rely on an internet connection as strictly browser-based apps do.
Vectr is primarily used for vector graphic design, and therefore lacks a built-in prototyping function. However, you can use this platform for some other key UI design tasks.
Pros
- Customizable filters for creating different backgrounds, borders, and shadows
- Real-time link sharing for collaboration
- Cross-platform availability
- Completely free to use
Cons
- No active online community
- Lack of online tutorials
- The UI looks outdated
Price
Free
Visit Vectr
Wrap Up: Sketch Alternatives on Windows
Sketch continuous to ignore the Windows platform. If you are someone who’s switching between Mac and Windows, the it doesn’t make sense to invest in Sketch. Go through the list above and create UI/UX design on Windows 10. If you are relying on team collaboration, then go with Figma. Those invested in the Adobe ecosystem should slide with Adobe XD. Vectr and Lunacy are the perfect choices for beginners out there. And hey, they are free as well.
