Principle vs Sketch: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Principle and Sketch 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 want the higher-rated option (8.0/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • 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
Sketch
Professional digital design for Mac
Best for you if:
- • You need ui/ux design features specifically
- • Vector design tool for Mac
- • UI/UX design focused
| At a Glance |  Principle |  Sketch |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Animation | UI/UX Design |
Rating | 80/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Principle | Sketch |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 80 | — |
| 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 Sketch Compare
Principle
Design tool for creating animated and interactive UI prototypes on Mac
Paid · 80/100 score
Sketch
Professional digital design for Mac
Paid
Principle is a animation tool. Sketch is in ui/ux design.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Principle
Want the highest-rated option?
Principle scores 80/100. Sketch is unrated.
Go with: Principle
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Principle
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are paid. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Principle is a animation tool. Sketch is in ui/ux design. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Principle
- Higher score: 80/100 vs unrated
- Our pick for this comparison
Sketch
- Better fit for ui/ux design
The Bottom Line
Principle (80/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Principle or Sketch better?
Principle scores 80/100 in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are Principle and Sketch used for?
Principle: Design tool for creating animated and interactive UI prototypes on Mac. Sketch: Professional digital design for Mac.
What does Principle cost vs Sketch?
Principle is a paid tool. Sketch is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.