When designing digital products such as websites and apps. there are many apps to choose from. Which one is right for you? In this article we’ll talk about Adobe XD, Figma, Sketch, and Adobe Photoshop.

Adobe XD

XD is the newest of these apps, and Adobe is putting a lot of effort into developing it quickly. Updates are released every 1–2 months, and XD has come a long way since the first beta versions.

XD aims to be the all-in-one solution for UX/UI design from wireframes to visual design, visual prototyping, voice prototyping, animation, and more. Despite XD being a relatively young app, it has some features (such as voice prototyping and repeat grid) that are not found in its competitors. While it is more advanced in some ways, it does lack some essential features. For example, there is no color management so on Display P3 monitors (like iMacs and Mac laptops use) the colors are not accurate, you can’t add multiple fills/strokes, and text styles are merely a find/change for formatting, just to name a few. Not having true styles severely limits their use because you’ll accidentally change things you didn’t intend to. There are no graphic/object styles, and exporting features are poorly implemented. Keep in mind that each app in this list has pros and cons, so none of them are perfect (Sketch and Figma also have their own set of limitations with styles for example).

Because XD came later to the game, it can open up Sketch, Photoshop, and Illustrator files and convert them into fully editable XD files. This makes it easier to switch to XD from those other apps. Being an Adobe app, it also integrates better, allowing you to edit photos in Photoshop and send an XD file to After Effects (if you need something beyond the animations you can create within XD).

XD has gained enough features that designers and companies are now starting to use it. Especially on small projects, some of the missing/poorly implemented features won't be much of an issue. However, on larger projects, those limitations might become a bigger issue. Adobe has been rapidly fixing things and adding features, so we’re seeing more and more people choosing Adobe XD.

Overall XD is quick and easy to use. We like the integrated design approach Adobe is going for, and we look forward to seeing XD continue to improve. It’s especially strong in UX design, prototyping, and animation when compared to the other apps.

You can use XD for free to see if you like it. The free version of XD gives you the full app, but with some limitations such as only one shared link (for prototypes and design specs) and no ability to save local files. If you need any of the premium features (such as multiple shared links or the ability to work with local files), you can get XD for $9.99/month (USD) or XD with all the CC apps for $52.99 (USD).

Learn more in our Adobe XD Bootcamp or another one of our Adobe XD classes.

Thinking about learning design? Learn about the different types of digital design (graphic design, web design, UX design, UI design, and motion design) so you can better understand what designers do and which apps they use.

In this online seminar we explain the appropriate classes and certificate programs so you’ll know the next steps to get started in each area of design.

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Get a Free Introduction to Animation, Adobe After Effects, Premiere Pro, & More

What is motion graphics? What’s the difference between Premiere Pro and After Effects? Do you need to be a good graphic designer to become a good motion graphics animator? What are the job opportunities in this field? In this free video introduction to the world of motion graphics, we will answer these questions and so much more. Get ready for a video packed with great information.

The following video includes 12 lessons, 100+ information slides, multiple screenings of professional motion graphics projects throughout, and tons of useful information.

While you may have heard the term "motion graphics" before, if you’re like the majority of people, you’re probably still trying to define what it really means. In the most basic terms, motion graphics relate to animated graphic design. More simply, bringing graphic design to life by focusing on tools like animating flat images to promote the illusion of movement.

Here’s what you need to know about motion graphics:

It’s quite liberating to be your own boss. We’re talking about flexible schedules, not missing out on important events, and controlling your work environment. It’s even more exhilarating knowing that you’re spending most of your days working on something you’re truly passionate about and know it will make a difference one day. When it comes to the technology world, graphic design has long been a career choice to stimulate creativity and make a real difference. 

Here’s why learning graphic design will help you feel empowered:

With so much consumerism in today’s era, getting your message out has never been more challenging. While lots of visual data is published on social media every day, there are far fewer motion apps or web-based platforms that can help drive more traffic. Companies today are considering implementing motion graphics more than ever. Animations can be used in every platform and for every type of business, strengthening company messages and brand awareness. 

Here’s what you need to know: 

What are Variable Fonts?

Variable fonts are a new kind of font that allows for amazing new levels of flexibility. With just one font file you can alter thickness, width, or just about any attribute you can think of... all while keeping the file-size small (important for websites).

Do not limit your thinking to the standard options that you’ve seen before (bold, italic, extended, condensed, etc.). Font designers can make variable fonts do all sorts of cool things!

We know what you’re thinking: "Why would I ever learn video editing when I can just hire someone off Fiverr to do it for me?" A few other refuting thoughts may cross your mind, like the fact that it would take too much time, that you’re too busy to learn something new, that it’s too expensive to master, or that you prefer to be investing your energy on other things. While this may be the case, it’s crucial to consider that editing videos in your personal vision can help turn abstract ideas into powerful content and save you a fortune in the long run.

But don’t take our word for it. Here’s what the world is saying…

Topics: Using custom hair brushes to create a selection/mask, Refining the hair mask, Removing a color cast

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Topics: Making a selection using Channels & Curves, Refining the selection with the History Brush, Refining the hair mask