Penpot vs Adobe XD: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Penpot and Adobe XD 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.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Penpot
Open-source design and prototyping, collaboratively in the browser
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • Penpot is an open-source design and prototyping platform
- • It provides vector editing and collaboration as a Figma alternative
Adobe XD
Design, prototype, and share websites and mobile apps
Best for you if:
- • 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
| At a Glance |  Penpot | |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | $22.99/monthSingle App |
Best For | UI/UX Design | UI/UX Design |
Rating | 4.5/5 | 4.4/5 |
Choose Penpot or Adobe XD?
Choose Penpot if
Open-source design and prototyping, collaboratively in the browser
- Free and open source
- Self-hostable
- SVG native
- You want a fully free tool (Adobe XD requires payment)
Choose Adobe XD if
Design, prototype, and share websites and mobile apps
- Adobe integration
- Good prototyping
- Voice prototyping
| Feature | Penpot | Adobe XD |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| User Rating | ★4.5/5 12 reviews | ★4.4/5 1,585 reviews |
| Categories | UI/UX DesignPrototyping | UI/UX DesignPrototyping |
In-Depth Analysis
Penpot
Open-source design and prototyping, collaboratively in the browser
Strengths
- +Free and open source
- +Self-hostable
- +SVG native
Weaknesses
- -Fewer features
- -Smaller community
Key features
Adobe XD
Design, prototype, and share websites and mobile apps
Strengths
- +Adobe integration
- +Good prototyping
- +Voice prototyping
Weaknesses
- -Adobe subscription
- -Being deprecated
Key features
Pricing: Penpot vs Adobe XD
| Plan | Penpot | Adobe XD |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free | Free Free |
| Tier 2 | N/A | $22.99 month Single App |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Penpot pricing and Adobe XD pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Penpot is free. Adobe XD is paid.
Go with: Penpot
Want the highest-rated option?
Penpot: 4.5/5 (12 reviews). Adobe XD: 4.4/5 (1,585 reviews).
Go with: Penpot
Value user reviews?
Penpot: 12 reviews (4.5/5). Adobe XD: 1,585 reviews (4.4/5).
Go with: Adobe XD
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Penpot is free. Adobe XD is paid. 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?
Penpot is rated higher: 4.5/5 vs 4.4/5.
Key Takeaways
Penpot
- Higher user rating: 4.5/5 vs 4.4/5
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Adobe XD
- Larger review base (1,585 reviews)
The Bottom Line
Penpot is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Penpot or Adobe XD better?
Penpot is rated in our evaluation. Penpot is free and Adobe XD is paid.
What are Penpot and Adobe XD used for?
Penpot: Open-source design and prototyping, collaboratively in the browser. Adobe XD: Design, prototype, and share websites and mobile apps.
What does Penpot cost vs Adobe XD?
Penpot is completely free. Adobe XD is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.