Comparison · Vector graphics editors

Adobe Illustrator vs Figma: which is better in 2026?

Adobe Illustrator ranks higher in our list of vector graphics editors (#2 against #6, score 90.0 against 80.5).

How we rank Share

  • 90.0
    Editorial score
    80.5
  • 3
    Platforms
    3
  • No
    Free to use
    Yes
  • No
    Open source
    No

Which should you choose?

Choose Adobe Illustrator if you want

Professional logo, icon and illustration work.

The industry-standard vector editor, with the deepest drawing, type and artboard tools and files that printers and agencies expect. It is subscription-only, unlike Affinity (free) and Inkscape (open source).

Choose Figma if you want

Shared interface and UI vector work.

Vector drawing sits inside a browser-based interface tool with real-time collaboration. It suits shared design work, but it is aimed at interface design more than illustration or print.

The main differences

  • Only Figma runs on Web.
  • Figma can be used for free; Adobe Illustrator requires payment.

Side by side

Adobe IllustratorFigma
Score90.080.5
Rank in list#2 of 10#6 of 10
PriceSubscriptionCreative Cloud subscription; a free trial is offeredFree plan, paid upgradesFree Starter plan; paid plans charge per seat
Free to useNoYes
Open sourceNoNo
PlatformsWindowsmacOSiPadOSWindows, macOS, iPadOSWebWindowsmacOSWeb, Windows, macOS
Made byAdobeFigma, Inc.
Best forProfessional logo, icon and illustration workShared interface and UI vector work
Strengths
  • Industry-standard vector toolset
  • Files accepted by printers and agencies
  • Integrates with Photoshop and other Adobe apps
  • Real-time collaboration in the browser
  • Desktop apps and a free Starter plan
Limits
  • Subscription only
  • Steeper learning curve than simpler vector tools
  • Work is stored on Figma's servers
  • Team features need paid seats
LinksVisit site Visit site

Questions about Adobe Illustrator vs Figma

Is Adobe Illustrator better than Figma?
Adobe Illustrator ranks higher in our list of vector graphics editors (#2 against #6, score 90.0 against 80.5). Adobe Illustrator is best for: professional logo, icon and illustration work. Figma is best for: shared interface and UI vector work.
Which is cheaper, Adobe Illustrator or Figma?
Adobe Illustrator: Creative Cloud subscription; a free trial is offered. Figma: Free Starter plan; paid plans charge per seat.
Do Adobe Illustrator and Figma run on the same platforms?
Adobe Illustrator supports Windows, macOS, iPadOS. Figma supports Web, Windows, macOS.