Using Canva for graphics is a popular option, but social media posts start to look the same when everyone uses the same templates. Time for Canva alternatives!
Canva has become the default, and because everyone uses the same templates, social media visuals start to blend together.
The good news?
There are beginner-friendly tools besides Canva that can help you create original, engaging graphics for social media.
You need tools that give your business more personality without requiring Photoshop-level skills.
- Great for branded templates, quick animations, and social posts.
- Feels more custom than Canva because the templates are less overused.
- Perfect for when you want something simple but not cookie cutter.
I’ve been using Photoshop for more than thirty years, but this program is not for beginners. Do not recommend.
My Top 3 Canva Alternatives
If you’re looking for a variety of templates similar to Canva, I have three recommendations that I think are easy for creating graphics.
Adobe Express (was Adobe Spark)
I’m a big fan of Adobe products. I’ve been using their suite of graphics products for more than three decades.
While Photoshop can be overwhelming, Adobe Express is a great option for creating cool graphics. It’s backed by a lot of creative minds.
If Photoshop is too complex and Canva is too simple, Adobe Express is the perfect middle ground.
- Why Adobe Express is Different: It uses the same imaging engine as Photoshop but with a drag-and-drop interface. It has a much more “pro” feel than Canva and offers 20,000+ high-end Adobe Fonts.
- Killer Feature: It integrates with Adobe Stock and Firefly AI, allowing you to generate custom textures or text effects that you simply can’t do in Canva.
Adobe Express is the #1 recommendation I make to my clients when they want a Canva alternative.
- Adobe Express is easy to use, even if you’re not a designer.
- You can create your own color palette with your brand colors.
- You will find lots of presets and templates to customize.
- Adobe Express has a desktop option and a mobile app.
Adobe Express is great for quick branded graphics without the complexity of Photoshop.
Pro Tip for Visual Fun: Try layering. Instead of just putting text over a photo, use Adobe Express to cut the subject out of the photo, place the text behind them, and then place the subject back on top. Your graphic looks like it was made by a pro designer rather than a template!
VistaCreate (was Crello)
VistaCreate is very similar to Canva but with a much better library of animated elements.
- Why VistaCreate is Different: Since it’s owned by VistaPrint, its design aesthetic is geared toward small business marketing and physical-to-digital branding.
- Killer Feature: The Background Remover and Object Eraser are often cited as being more precise than Canva’s, which is vital when you are trying to layer text behind a product or person to create depth.
VistaCreate is a free graphic design tool with thousands of free templates. There’s also an AI Image Generator that can help you bring your ideas to life.
- VistaCreate is very similar to Canva but with more unique templates.
- Better variety of layouts that don’t scream Canva template.
- Includes animation options for your social media visuals.
- VistaCreate is really easy for beginners!
The VistaCreate free version gives you lots of free templates, or you can sign up for the Pro Plan which gives you access to advanced design tools that help you create visuals that get you noticed.
Desygner
The free version of Desygner has a library of really beautiful templates.
- Why Desygner is Different: It’s a very capable, feature-rich alternative that provides excellent functionality.
- Killer Feature: You can import and edit files from PowerPoint (PPT) and Photoshop (PSD).
Desygner has a similar user-friendly interface, but offers more extensive templates for social media, print flyers, and logos.
- You can add your custom branding.
- You’ll find a great mix of simplicity and flexibility.
- Desygner has a desktop option and a mobile app..
Desygner is free to use, or you can upgrade to a pro version for even more options and designs.
Graphic Tips for Better Engagement
Using the right tool is helpful.
However, engagement improves most when your graphics are unique.
- Show your face and brand, or how about a photo of you in your own logo wear?
- Avoid generic templates that other local businesses are using, especially if they’re your competition!
- Use your own photos instead of stock photos everyone in your industry is using.
Canva Alternatives to Try
Most people find Photoshop intimidating and the cost can be prohibitive.
There might come a time when you need more graphics than Canva can give.
That’s where tools like Adobe Express, VistaCreate, and Desygner are perfect for creating graphics the easy way.
These programs are easy enough to learn but powerful enough to make really unique, eye-catching graphics.
My Top 3 Canva Alternatives will give your Northern Michigan business a more custom, professional look for a better first impression.
Now your graphics won’t look like the graphics everyone else is using!
