ProtoPie vs Principle: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between ProtoPie and Principle 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:
ProtoPie
Interactive prototypes without code
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.3/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • ProtoPie is an advanced prototyping tool for realistic interactions
- • It creates high-fidelity prototypes with sensors, variables, and conditions
Principle
Design tool for creating animated and interactive UI prototypes on Mac
Best for you if:
- • Principle is a Mac app for designing animated and interactive user interfaces
- • It creates prototypes with timeline-based animations and interactions
| At a Glance |  ProtoPie |  Principle |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Animation | Animation |
Rating | 83/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | ProtoPie | Principle |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 83 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | AnimationUI/UX Design | AnimationUI/UX Design |
How ProtoPie and Principle Compare
ProtoPie
Interactive prototypes without code
Free tier available · 83/100 score
Principle
Design tool for creating animated and interactive UI prototypes on Mac
Paid · 80/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
ProtoPie has a free tier. Principle is paid only.
Go with: ProtoPie
Want the highest-rated option?
ProtoPie: 83/100. Principle: 80/100.
Go with: ProtoPie
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: ProtoPie
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
ProtoPie is freemium. Principle is paid. ProtoPie lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are animation tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
ProtoPie scores higher: 83/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
ProtoPie
- Higher score: 83/100 vs 80
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Principle
The Bottom Line
ProtoPie (83/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ProtoPie or Principle better?
ProtoPie scores 83/100 in our evaluation. ProtoPie is freemium and Principle is paid.
What are ProtoPie and Principle used for?
ProtoPie: Interactive prototypes without code. Principle: Design tool for creating animated and interactive UI prototypes on Mac.
What does ProtoPie cost vs Principle?
ProtoPie is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Principle is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.