Adobe XD vs Penpot: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Adobe XD and Penpot comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated May 2, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Adobe XD
UI/UX design and prototyping
Best for you if:
- 0
- • UI/UX design and prototyping tool included free with any Creative Cloud subscription
- • Create interactive prototypes with auto-animate, voice prototyping, and responsive resize features
Penpot
Open source design platform
Best for you if:
- 0
- • You need something completely free
- • Penpot is an open-source design and prototyping platform
- • It provides vector editing and collaboration as a Figma alternative
| At a Glance |  Penpot | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free |
Best For | UI/UX Design | UI/UX Design |
Rating | — | — |
| Feature | Adobe XD | Penpot |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Free |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | UI/UX DesignPrototyping | UI/UX DesignPrototyping |
How Adobe XD and Penpot Compare
Adobe XD
UI/UX design and prototyping
Paid
Penpot
Open source design platform
Free
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Penpot is free. Adobe XD is paid.
Go with: Penpot
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Adobe XD
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Adobe XD
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Adobe XD is paid. Penpot is free. Go with Penpot if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are ui/ux design tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Adobe XD
- 0
- Our pick for this comparison
Penpot
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
Adobe XD is our pick. That said, Penpot is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Adobe XD or Penpot better?
Adobe XD is rated high in our evaluation. Adobe XD is paid and Penpot is free.
What are Adobe XD and Penpot used for?
Adobe XD: UI/UX design and prototyping. Penpot: Open source design platform.
What does Adobe XD cost vs Penpot?
Adobe XD is a paid tool. Penpot is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.