Sketch vs Adobe XD: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Sketch 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.
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:
Sketch
Design toolkit for macOS
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.4/10 vs 7.2/10)
- • Mac-native design tool that defined modern UI design
- • Symbol-based design system with shared libraries
Adobe XD
UI/UX design and prototyping
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 |  Sketch | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | UI/UX Design | UI/UX Design |
Rating | 84/100 | 72/100 |
| Feature | Sketch | Adobe XD |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 72 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | UI/UX DesignPrototyping | UI/UX DesignPrototyping |
How Sketch and Adobe XD Compare
Sketch
Design toolkit for macOS
Paid · 84/100 score
Adobe XD
UI/UX design and prototyping
Paid · 72/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Sketch
Want the highest-rated option?
Sketch: 84/100. Adobe XD: 72/100.
Go with: Sketch
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Sketch
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?
Both are ui/ux design tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Sketch scores higher: 84/100 vs 72/100.
Key Takeaways
Sketch
- Higher score: 84/100 vs 72
- Our pick for this comparison
Adobe XD
The Bottom Line
Sketch (84/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sketch or Adobe XD better?
Sketch scores 84/100 in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are Sketch and Adobe XD used for?
Sketch: Design toolkit for macOS. Adobe XD: UI/UX design and prototyping.
What does Sketch cost vs Adobe XD?
Sketch is a paid tool. Adobe XD is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.