Creating user interfaces (UI) and user experiences (UX) is now a core element of digital product design. From websites to mobile apps, businesses need beautiful and intuitive designs to attract and retain users. For a long time, Adobe XD was the go-to program for UI/UX designers. However, with its shift toward subscription models and limited free features, many creators have started searching for Alternatives to Adobe XD for Free to continue designing efficiently without added costs.
The good news is that in 2025, there are several robust tools that offer comparable or even more advanced features for free. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional designer, these options let you build prototypes, collaborate with teams, and craft beautiful user experiences—all without cost. For those exploring service marketplace solutions, a complete consumer guide for buying the best selling Thumbtack clone script can help you choose the right platform to scale your business efficiently.
This article covers the pinnacle free Adobe XD options, contrasting their capabilities, strengths, and use cases, so you can choose the pleasant device for your tasks.
Why Seek Adobe XD Alternatives?
Adobe XD is great, but it also has some downsides:
- Subscription fees: Most freelancers, students, or small enterprises find the ongoing expenses too pricey.
- Limited free version: The free version limits collaboration and premium features.
- Learning curve: New customers would possibly be crushed by the interface in preference to less difficult tools.
- Closed surroundings: Users may additionally like open-source or internet-based totally applications with extra widespread integrations.
Free options enter the scene at this point, presenting comparable functions inclusive of prototyping, collaboration, responsive design, and vector editing.
Key Features to Look for in a Free Adobe XD Alternative
While searching out the high-quality tool, make certain it has:
- Prototyping tools: To make clickable mockups.
- Collaboration features: Real-time editing and collaboration.
- Cross-platform access: Supports Windows, Mac, or browser-based direct usage.
- Vector design support: For scalable, vector-based designs.
- Export options: PNG, SVG, PDF, or direct handoff to developers.
- Plugins or integrations: To enable additional functionality.
Best Free Alternatives to Adobe XD
Here are the top alternatives that can be used in place of Adobe XD for free in 2025.
1. Figma (Free Plan)
Best for: Browser-based UI/UX collaboration
Figma is the most widely used Adobe XD substitute as of recently. It is browser-primarily based, so you do no longer need heavy installations, and it supports actual-time cooperation similar to Google Docs.
key features:
- Web-based supports Windows, Mac, Linux and even Chromebooks.
- Real -time cooperation with team members.
- Easy-to-use prototype tools.
- Icon, chart and wireframe plugins.
- Cross-platform access through mobile applications.
Why this is a great option: Figure’s free plan is generous, and this includes unlimited files, comments and cooperation. It is ideal for teams, freelancers and students who require a simple but powerful design tool.
2. Sketch (Free for Education & Trial Use)
Ideal for: Mac users who require design-focused equipment
Sketch is one of the first to compete with Adobe XD to UI/UX design tools. Although the full version is not free, students and instructors can use it for free. It has vector editing, reusable components and plugins.
major features:
- Vector-based design system.
- Easy creation of reusable symbols of design.
- Support for third-party plugin integrations.
- Perfect for Mac users.
Why It’s a Great Alternative: While it’s only on Mac, Sketch is still light and easy to use, which makes it a decent free option for those who qualify for its education plan or wish to try it out before they subscribe.
3. InVision (Free Plan)
Best for: Prototyping and collaboration
InVision has been a prototyping and interactive mockup favorite for a long time. Its free plan has fantastic tools for individual and small team use.
key features:
- Interactive prototypes.
- Drag-end-drop design workflow.
- Freehand cooperation (such as a virtual whiteboard).
- Cloud-based file sharing.
- Domestic integration for slack, cumin and trail.
Why this is a great option: Invision is deeply committed to cooperation, which makes it perfect for distributed teams that should churn and recur on ideas.
4. Gravit Designer (Free Version)
Best for: Vector design and cross-platform use
Gravit Designer is an all-around design utility that is to be had for use both on-line and offline. It has vector modifying skills comparable to Adobe XD and can be used for UI design, icons, and illustrations.
Key Features:
- File cloud garage.
- Supports SVG, PDF, and PNG export.
- Vector shapes and text may be customized.
- Offline desktop software.
Why It’s a Great Alternative: The free version of Gravit Designer is strong enough for most UI/UX initiatives. It is flexible for both beginners and specialists who want a pass-platform right of entry to.
5. Lunacy by Icons8
Best for: Offline editing and free assets
Lunacy is a free design software developed by Icons8. It works offline but sinks online when needed. It also comes preloaded with free icons, pictures and stock photos.
key features:
- Originally works on Windows, Mac and Linux.
- Offline editing.
- Reach to free design assets from icons 8.
- Real time cooperation.
- Light compared to Adobe XD.
Why this is a great option: Lunacy is 100% independent and highly adapted, which is ideal for designers who want to work offline but still require cooperation options.
6. Penpot (open source)
Best for: Open-SOS enthusiasts and teams
Penpot is the world’s first open-source design and prototyping platform. Made for cross-team collaboration, it works directly in your browser.
key features:
- Forever free and open source.
- Vector editing for UI/UX design.
- Prototype and Interaction.
- Works in the operating system.
- Community-managed improvement.
Why this is a great option: Penpot is completely independent and open-source, allowing it to be perfect for teams that want complete control over their equipment without seller lock-in.
7. Canva (free plan)
Best for: Quick Design and Basic Prototype
While Canva is the most famous as a graphic design software, its free version now has wireframing and basic prototype capabilities.
key features:
- Drag-And-Drop Editor.
- Pre-designed templates for wireframe.
- Team cooperation.
- Rich free library of graphics and icons.
- Accessually accessible on any device.
Why this is a terrific choice: Canva cannot compete with Adobe XD’s advanced talents, however it is ideal for early or non-designers that require short turnarounds.
8. Vectr (free forever)
Best for: Basic, Browser-based vector editing
Vectr is a user -friendly vector editor that comes as a web app or desktop app. It isn’t as characteristic-wealthy as Adobe XD, but it works for simple UI layout.
Main characteristics:
- Real time cooperation.
- Windows works on Mac, Linux and Chrome OS.
- Free cloud storage.
- Scalable vector design equipment.
- Interface with intuitive knowledge.
Why this is a great option: Vectr is light and free, so it is a great starting point for beginners that do not require refined prototypes.
9. Justinmind (free version)
Best for: Wireframes and Advanced Prototype
Justinmind is an expert in the interactive app and the website prototype. Its free version is not wide, but is watermark-free, making it a great option for UX designers.
key features:
- Interactive prototypes.
- Drag-end-drop widget.
- Responsible design features.
- Cooperation and Developer Handoff.
- Offline and online compatibility
Why this is a great option: Justinmind UX is best suited for designers who are looking to validate interactions and user flows before going into full growth.
10. Pencil project (open source)
Best for: Simple Wireframing and Mockup
The pencil project is an independent, open-source diagramming, wireframing and prototype tool. Although it is less advanced than Adobe XD, it is effective for rapid prototypes.
key features:
- Free, open-source application.
- Pre-designed size collection.
- PNG, PDF and HTML supports exports.
- Moves on many platforms.
- Light installation.
Why this is a great option: it requires a light tool for teachers, students, or anyone for simple wireframing.
Fast Overview of the Top Free Adobe XD Alternatives
- Figma: Overall best free substitute with real-time collaboration.
- Sketch (Education): Excellent for Mac users and students.
- InVision: Best for interactive brainstorming and prototyping.
- Gravit Designer: Best for cross-platform vector editing.
- Lunacy: Best offline solution with included assets.
- Penpot: Best open-source and team-friendly tool.
- Canva: Best for beginners and non-designers.
- Vectr: Best lightweight editor for simple designs.
- Justinmind: Ideal for UX prototyping and interactions.
- Pencil Project: Ideal for basic wireframes and diagrams.
Selecting the Right Tool
Consider the following tips to choose:
- Team collaboration: When teamwork is a must, Figma or InVision will be ideal.
- Offline editing: Try Lunacy or Gravity Designer.
- Open-source preference: Opt for Penpot or Pencil Project.
- Beginner-friendly: Canva or Vectr will be best.
- Professional prototyping: Attempt Justinmind or Figma.
Tips for Making the Transition from Adobe XD
Transitioning from Adobe XD to some other tool is easy in case you:
- Export legacy initiatives as SVG or PNG to re-import.
- Learn new keyboard shortcuts to save cash time.
- Begin small through recreating easy designs in the new tool.
- Leverage network templates to boost up workflows.
- Participate in online boards for assistance and assets.
Final Verdict
By 2025, designers might not need to stick with Adobe XD anymore. With endless unfastened Adobe XD options, you can create professional designs, prototypes, and consumer studies without doling out steeply-priced subscription expenses.
Figma, Lunacy, Penpot, Gravit Designer, and InVision are the strongest free options, but the fine one for you depends on your necessities. Whether you are a freelancer, scholar, or a giant team member, is a free solution that suits your workflow.
By trying these options, you reveal to freedom, flexibility and creativity – without watermarking or without prohibitive pricing.
