Figma vs. Adobe XD: Which to Choose for Web Design in 2025?

In the fast-moving world of web design, choosing the right tool can significantly impact your project. Figma vs Adobe XD is a hot topic for designers in 2025 because both tools dominate the UI/UX design software market. 

Figma is popular for its cloud-based collaboration, while Adobe XD is a favorite choice for its Adobe ecosystem integration. Both cater to different needs. With web design tools 2025 evolving rapidly, choosing between them is more critical than ever.

The demand for intuitive, team-friendly tools is skyrocketing. Designers need software that supports seamless workflows for both solo projects and large teams. The recent buzz around Adobe's acquisition of Figma has raised questions like whether Figma will be part of Creative Cloud. The deal's full impact is still unclear. However, it's already shaping how designers plan for the future.

Our article will dive into the difference between Figma and Adobe XD. We will compare collaboration, features, pricing, and more. We’ll explore Figma advantages, highlight Adobe XD features, and address whether Adobe XD is better than Figma for your needs. 

By the end, you’ll know which is better: Figma or Adobe XD for your 2025 projects. And you will know what to expect from their future under Adobe's ownership.

The Key Differences Between Figma and Adobe XD (What Really Matters in 2025)

Understanding the difference between Figma and Adobe XD is crucial for choosing the right tool in 2025. Both are powerful, but they shine in different areas. Let’s break down the factors that matter most for designers today:

• Collaboration. Figma’s cloud-based platform allows real-time collaboration. This lets multiple designers edit a file simultaneously. This is a game-changer for remote teams. Adobe XD, while offering collaboration through Creative Cloud, relies more on local files which can slow down team workflows.
• Prototyping and Design Systems. Figma’s prototyping is simple and web-focused. It offers robust design system management. Adobe XD stands out with features like auto-animate and voice prototyping, making it ideal for interactive designs. However, its design system sharing is less flexible than Figma’s.
• Performance and Interface. Figma’s browser-based interface is lightweight and fast. It works well even with complex projects. Adobe XD is a desktop app that handles large files well but can lag on older machines.
• Plugins and Integrations. Figma’s extensive plugin ecosystem enhances functionality from automation to asset management. Adobe XD’s plugin library is smaller. However, it integrates tightly with Adobe tools like Photoshop.
• Cross-Platform Availability. Figma runs in any browser, making it platform-agnostic. Adobe XD is limited to Windows and macOS desktops which may restrict some users.
• Pricing and Licensing. Figma offers a generous free plan, but questions linger about whether Figma will be free after Adobe. Adobe XD requires a Creative Cloud subscription. It's more expensive, but it includes other Adobe apps.

Figma’s advantages lie in its accessibility and teamwork features. Meanwhile, Adobe XD excels for those already in the Adobe ecosystem. Your choice depends on your project’s needs and team structure.

Figma’s Advantages That Matter for Designers Today

Figma has become a go-to for many designers, and its advantages make it a strong contender in 2025. When asking which is better, Figma or Adobe XD, Figma often pulls ahead for teams and web-focused projects. Here’s why:

• Real-Time Collaboration. Figma’s cloud-based system lets remote teams work together instantly. Designers, developers, and stakeholders can edit, comment, or review in one place, reducing back-and-forth communication.
• Design System Management. Figma’s components and styles are easy to create and share across projects. This ensures consistency, especially for large teams working on multiple designs.
• Developer Handoff. The built-in Inspect mode provides developers with precise specs, CSS code, and assets directly in the browser, streamlining handoff.
• Community and Updates. As one of Figma’s advantages, its active community offers countless plugins, templates, and resources. Regular updates keep the tool fresh with new features like advanced prototyping.
• Easy Onboarding. Figma’s intuitive interface means new team members can get up to speed quickly, even without prior experience.

For teams prioritizing collaboration and flexibility, Figma is tough to beat. Its web-based nature and robust features make it a top pick for modern design workflows.

Adobe XD Features You Still Can’t Ignore

While Figma gets most of the attention, Adobe XD remains a strong player, especially for certain workflows. Its features offer unique strengths that keep it relevant. So, is Adobe XD better than Figma for some designers? Let’s explore:

• Adobe Ecosystem Integration. Adobe XD syncs seamlessly with tools like Photoshop and Illustrator. If you’re already using Creative Cloud, this integration saves time when importing assets or editing designs.
• Offline Capabilities. Unlike Figma, which needs an internet connection, Adobe XD works offline, making it ideal for designers in low-connectivity areas.
• Performance for Large Files. Adobe XD handles complex projects with many artboards smoothly, making it great for detailed UI designs.
• Auto-Animate and Voice Prototyping. These features let designers create dynamic transitions and voice-activated prototypes, making it perfect for modern apps and interactive experiences.
• Familiar Interface. For Adobe users, XD’s interface feels like home. This reduces the learning curve compared to switching to Figma.

Adobe XD is a solid choice for solo designers or those deep in the Adobe ecosystem. Its specialized features make it a strong contender, even in 2025.

What the Future Holds: Creative Cloud, Pricing & Accessibility

Adobe’s acquisition of Figma has designers wondering about the future. Key questions like whether Figma will be part of Creative Cloud and when Figma will be available in Creative Cloud are on everyone’s mind. As of 2025, here’s what we know.

The Adobe-Figma deal, finalized in 2023, is still in transition. Figma operates independently but is expected to integrate with Creative Cloud over time. While no exact timeline exists, industry experts expect partial integration by late 2025 or early 2026. This could mean Figma files syncing with Creative Cloud libraries or shared workflows with Adobe tools.

Pricing is another hot topic. Many ask whether Figma will remain free under Adobe. Figma’s free plan remains intact for now. However, Adobe may introduce tiered pricing tied to Creative Cloud subscriptions. Adobe XD, already part of Creative Cloud, requires a subscription starting at $20.99/month, which includes other apps. Figma's Professional plan is $12 per editor per month for UI/UX design software. However, future changes could align it with Adobe’s model.

For long-term decisions, consider your team’s reliance on collaboration versus Adobe integration. If Adobe fully merges Figma, expect tighter workflows but potentially higher costs. Stay updated on announcements to plan your tool investments wisely.

Which is Better for Your Web Design Project in 2025?

Deciding which is better — Adobe XD vs Figma — depends on your project and workflow. Both tools are powerful, but the Figma vs Adobe XD debate comes down to specific needs. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose in 2025:

• Choose Figma If. You're working with a remote team, at a startup, or on a web-first project. Figma’s cloud-based collaboration, free plan, and extensive plugins make it ideal for fast-paced, team-driven designs. It’s also great for beginners or those prioritizing developer handoff.
• Choose Adobe XD If. You’re a solo designer or part of an Adobe-heavy workflow. XD’s offline mode, voice prototyping, and Creative Cloud integration suit designers who rely on Photoshop or Illustrator. It’s also a good fit for complex, interactive prototypes.

In the battle of Figma vs Adobe XD, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Focus on your team size, budget, and existing tools, not just popularity. Both tools can deliver stunning results with the right approach.Ready to start your next web design project? Contact our team for expert UI/UX services tailored to your needs, using Figma, Adobe XD, or any tool you prefer. Let’s bring your vision to life!