Canva Alternatives FAQs

Canva is super popular for creating designs, but it’s worth considering other options if you have specific needs or a tight budget. We've tested a ton of design tools, so we know that the right one can make a big difference in your projects. Whether you’re creating social media posts, marketing materials, or collaborating with a team, think about your goals to help narrow down your choices. Here are some common questions about Canva and its alternatives.

Is there a free version of Canva?

Yep! Canva offers a free plan that includes access to thousands of templates, photos, and design elements. The free version is great for beginners or those with basic design needs. However, if you’re looking for more advanced features like premium templates, brand kits, and a larger media library, Canva Pro starts at $15/month per user.

But what if you want to save money in the long run? In that case, lifetime deals like those on AppSumo can be a smart solution. Just pay once and you’ll get access to powerful design tools without the recurring monthly fees.

Why do people consider switching from Canva?

A lot of people love Canva for its ease of use, but there are a few reasons why some might look for alternatives. For starters, while the templates are handy, they can make your designs feel a bit generic, especially if you’re aiming for something unique. If you’re a pro or just need more advanced features—like better control over design elements or higher print quality—Canva can start to feel a bit limited.

Plus, Canva’s reliance on being online can be a hassle, especially if you’re dealing with slow load times or connectivity issues. So, people usually switch when they need more creative freedom, advanced tools, or just want to step up the quality of their work.

How do I choose the right Canva alternative for my business?

If you’re running a small business and mainly need quick, polished designs for social media or marketing materials, Canva might already be doing the job for you. But if you’re feeling limited—whether it’s because you want more creative control, better design quality, or tools that offer advanced features—then it’s time to look elsewhere.

Start by thinking about what’s missing for you in Canva. If it’s the lack of design flexibility or the feeling that your work looks too similar to everyone else’s, you might want to explore tools that offer more customization or that are built for more professional design work. If you’re finding Canva’s performance laggy or frustrating, a more robust desktop-based program could be what you need.

For businesses focused on brand consistency and unique design, consider tools that allow for better branding options and finer control over your designs. And if you’re working with a team, look for software that offers strong collaboration features and integrates well with the other tools you’re already using.

In the end, the right alternative will be one that meets your specific design needs, fits your budget, and feels comfortable for you and your team. Don’t be afraid to try out a few options to see what clicks, whether it’s free trials or lifetime deals on AppSumo (it’s a one-time payment and we’ve got a 60-day money back guarantee).