Principle vs Figma: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Principle and Figma 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 February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Principle
Design tool for creating animated and interactive UI prototypes on Mac
Best for you if:
- • You need animation features specifically
- • Principle is a Mac app for designing animated and interactive user interfaces
- • It creates prototypes with timeline-based animations and interactions
Figma
The collaborative design platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.5/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need ui/ux design features specifically
- • Collaborative UI/UX design tool
- • Real-time collaboration
| At a Glance |  Principle |  Figma |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Animation | UI/UX Design |
Rating | 80/100 | 95/100 |
| Feature | Principle | Figma |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 80 | 95 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | AnimationUI/UX Design | UI/UX DesignGraphic Design |
How Principle and Figma Compare
Principle
Design tool for creating animated and interactive UI prototypes on Mac
Paid · 80/100 score
Figma
The collaborative design platform
Free tier available · 95/100 score
Principle is a animation tool. Figma is in ui/ux design.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Figma has a free tier. Principle is paid only.
Go with: Figma
Want the highest-rated option?
Principle: 80/100. Figma: 95/100.
Go with: Figma
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Figma
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Principle is paid. Figma is freemium. Figma lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Principle is a animation tool. Figma is in ui/ux design. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Figma scores higher: 95/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
Figma
- Higher score: 95/100 vs 80
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Principle
- Better fit for animation
The Bottom Line
Figma (95/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Principle or Figma better?
Figma scores 95/100 in our evaluation. Principle is paid and Figma is freemium.
What are Principle and Figma used for?
Principle: Design tool for creating animated and interactive UI prototypes on Mac. Figma: The collaborative design platform.
What does Principle cost vs Figma?
Principle is a paid tool. Figma is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.