What are the best design tools? 2025 Recommendations & Reviews
10 Best Design Tools Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 17 tools reviewed.
There is an overwhelming number of design tools on the market. So, how do you decide which design tool is right for you? You know you want to create and refine visual elements, layouts, and interactions for various digital and physical products, whether for websites, apps, graphics, or other design projects – and you need the right tool for the job. I've got you! In this post, I make things simple, leveraging my experience managing big, complex products, and being exposed to many design tools to bring you this curated list of the best design tools.
Why Trust Our Design Tool Reviews
We’ve been testing and reviewing design tools since 2021. As product designers ourselves, we know how critical and difficult it is to make the right decision when selecting software.
We invest in deep research to help our audience make better software purchasing decisions. We’ve tested more than 2,000 tools for different product management use cases and written over 1,000 comprehensive software reviews. Learn how we stay transparent & our design tools review methodology.
The Best Design Tools Comparison Chart
Here is a table that where you can compare all the tools we just covered in the overviews.
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for UI inspiration and pattern research | Free plan available | From $10/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 2 | Best for collaborative and cloud-based 3D modeling | Free version available | From $1,500/user/year | Website | |
| 3 | Best for electrical-mechanical design integration | 30-day free trial available | From $110/month | Website | |
| 4 | Best for generative design exploration | 30-day free trial available | From $90/month | Website | |
| 5 | Best for digital twin capabilities | 30-day free trial available | Pricing available upon request | Website | |
| 6 | Best for advanced quality management | Free trial available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 7 | Best for advanced 3D modeling | Free demo available | Pricing available upon request | Website | |
| 8 | Best machine simulation feature | Free trial available | Pricing available upon request | Website | |
| 9 | Best for a drag-and-drop approach to 3D modeling | Free trial available | Pricing available upon request | Website | |
| 10 | Best for custom fabrications | 30-day free trial available | Pricing available upon request | Website |
Best Design Tool Reviews
You can use the simple overviews of the tools below to understand how each tool stands out from other design tools.
Mobbin is a design research platform that helps UI/UX designers stay on top of modern design trends. It offers a massive, curated library of screenshots from leading mobile and web apps, letting you explore real-world design patterns for inspiration, validation, and benchmarking.
Why I Picked Mobbin
I picked Mobbin because it makes finding high-quality design inspiration fast and structured. Instead of manually collecting screenshots or browsing countless apps, you can use Mobbin’s searchable library of over 100,000 UI examples to study specific components, flows, and layouts. It’s particularly useful when you need to see how top apps handle onboarding, navigation, or checkout flows, helping you design with greater context and confidence.
Mobbin Key Features
Here are some standout features that make Mobbin a valuable tool for UI and UX design research.
- Curated Design Library: Access thousands of UI patterns from iOS, Android, and web apps.
- Advanced Search and Filters: Quickly find screens, elements, and flows that match your design goals.
- Tagging and Categorization: Browse by app type, UI element, or user flow for efficient discovery.
- Case Studies and Updates: Learn from how leading brands execute interface and UX decisions.
Mobbin Integrations
Integrates with Figma, plus complementary design plugins such as Content Reel, Beautiful Shadow, Unsplash, Freepik, Lummi, RemoveBG, and LottieFiles to enhance your design workflow.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integration support with Figma workflow
- Advanced search and filtering tools
- Extensive library of UI screenshots
Cons:
- Limited verified integration information available
- Subscription-based pricing may limit access
If you're seeking a design tool that empowers your team to collaborate effortlessly from anywhere, Onshape might be your ideal match. This cloud-native CAD and PDM platform is tailored for engineers and designers who value real-time collaboration and detailed data management. With its cutting-edge suite of tools, Onshape addresses challenges like version control and data security, making it an appealing choice for professionals looking to enhance their design processes.
Why I Picked Onshape
I picked Onshape because of its unique ability to facilitate real-time collaboration, an essential feature for design teams working across different locations. With Onshape, you can access a shared workspace where multiple team members can work on the same design simultaneously, reducing the hassle of version control. Another standout feature is its built-in data management system, which ensures that your designs are securely stored and easily accessible without the need for external PDM software. This integration of CAD and PDM in a single platform not only saves time but also enhances the overall design workflow, making it a compelling choice for teams looking to streamline their processes.
Onshape Key Features
In addition to its collaborative capabilities, Onshape offers several other features that can enhance your design experience:
- Parametric Modeling: This feature allows you to create complex 3D models using a set of parameters, making it easy to modify designs without starting from scratch.
- Import and Export Capabilities: Onshape supports a wide range of file formats, enabling you to seamlessly integrate with other tools and share designs with clients or partners.
- Custom Feature Development: With Onshape, you can create custom features tailored to your specific design needs, offering flexibility and adaptability in your projects.
- Mobile Access: Onshape's mobile app lets you view and edit your designs on-the-go, ensuring that your team stays productive even when away from their desks. Native integrations with Onshape include SolidWorks, Autodesk Fusion 360, MATLAB, Cura, GrabCAD, Vuforia, KeyShot, SimScale, Ansys, and Arena PLM.
Onshape Integrations
Integrations include OnScale, Cadasio, Xometry, Monarch, Flatter Files, OnelPM, Phi, Arena, SimScale, OpenBOM, and other software options.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Built-in version control system eliminates the need for manual tracking of design iterations
- Cloud-based platform allows multiple users to collaborate on designs in real-time
- Large library of 3D models and parts
Cons:
- May lack some of the specialized features found in more traditional CAD programs
- Limited support for simulation and analysis tools
For those seeking a versatile design tool that caters to diverse industries, Solid Edge by Siemens offers a suite that includes 2D drafting, 3D design, electrical design, simulation, and data management. This tool is particularly appealing to professionals in engineering and manufacturing sectors who require dedicated features accessible via the cloud, enabling fluid collaboration and high-performance device compatibility. Solid Edge addresses common challenges like integrating complex design processes and enhancing productivity, making it a smart choice for those looking to refine their product development workflows.
Why I Picked Solid Edge
I picked Solid Edge because of its ability to unify electrical and mechanical design in a single environment. Instead of juggling separate tools, teams can integrate wiring diagrams, PCB layouts, and mechanical components into one cohesive model. This not only reduces handoff errors but also ensures electrical systems are properly accounted for in mechanical assemblies. When combined with Solid Edge’s synchronous technology for quick design edits and its simulation capabilities for performance validation, this integrated approach gives product teams the agility and accuracy they need in fast-paced development cycles.
Solid Edge Key Features
In addition to synchronous technology and integrated simulation, there are several other features that make Solid Edge a valuable choice for your design needs.
- 3D Printing Preparation: This feature allows you to prepare your designs for 3D printing, ensuring that you can easily transition from digital models to physical prototypes.
- Data Management: With built-in data management, you can keep track of your design revisions and collaborate efficiently with your team, minimizing the risk of version control issues.
- Electrical Design: The tool offers various electrical design capabilities, enabling you to integrate electrical and mechanical designs seamlessly within a single environment.
- Augmented Reality (AR) Visualization: This feature allows you to visualize your designs in AR, providing an immersive way to present and evaluate your projects in real-world settings.
Solid Edge Integrations
Native integrations include Siemens Xcelerator, Mentor Graphics, NX, Teamcenter, MindSphere, Simcenter, Tecnomatix, COMOS, Opcenter, Mendix, Google Drive, Dropbox Business, OneDrive, Box, Global Shop Solutions, Smap3D Plant Design, Smap3D ScanToCAD, BoltsEtAl, SimLab Soft, HOOPS Exchange, and other software options.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- 3D printing preparation feature supports the prototyping process from digital models to physical prototypes
- Natively integrates with Siemens PLM software ecosystem
- Synchronous technology allows fast design modifications
Cons:
- AR visualization feature requires high-performance hardware, which may not be feasible for all teams
- User interface can be somewhat less intuitive at first compared to other CAD platforms
For small and medium-sized businesses seeking an all-in-one product design and engineering platform, Autodesk Fusion 360 combines CAD, CAM, and CAE tools in a single solution. It supports everything from consumer gadgets to industrial machines, enabling professionals in engineering, industrial design, and architecture to move smoothly from concept to production. With cloud-based collaboration, teams can work together in real time from any location, while generative design tools use advanced algorithms to explore thousands of iterations based on material type, manufacturing constraints, and other parameters to help optimize performance and efficiency.
Why I Picked Fusion 360
I picked Fusion 360 because its integration of parametric modeling and advanced simulation tools makes it uniquely suited for those in the design field. You can create detailed 3D models with precision using its parametric design capabilities, which allow for easy adjustments and modifications. Additionally, the integrated simulation tools provide you with the ability to test and validate your designs within the same platform, ensuring that your projects are not only visually appealing but also structurally sound. This combination of features addresses the need for both creativity and functionality, making it an ideal choice for professionals focused on design innovation.
Fusion 360 Key Features
In addition to its parametric modeling and simulation capabilities, Fusion 360 offers several other features that can enhance your design projects:
- Cloud Collaboration: This feature allows your team to work together in real-time, regardless of location, ensuring that everyone stays updated with the latest design changes.
- Generative Design: You can explore multiple design solutions quickly by using the software's generative design capabilities, which help in optimizing materials and performance.
- Integrated CAM: With built-in CAM tools, you can easily transition from design to manufacturing, supporting the production process.
- Version Control: Fusion 360 provides version control options, so you can keep track of design iterations and revert to previous versions when necessary.
Fusion 360 Integrations
Integrations include Makersite, OpenBOM, AWS Secrets Manager, Causeway Flow, Bantam Tools, HSMWorks, ElectricalOm, Autodesk A360, SimLab Composer, FeatureCAM, and other software options.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Parametric modeling features enable precise control
- Includes version control, which helps track design iterations and manage changes
- Simulation tools allow for testing and validation of designs within the platform
Cons:
- Requires a reliable internet connection
- Certain advanced features are only available in the paid version, which can be a barrier for smaller businesses
Designed for product designers and engineers across industries such as aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing, NX CAD by Siemens offers an extensive suite of tools to enhance your product engineering process. With its capabilities in mechanical and electronic CAD, automation design, and AI integration, it empowers your team to create detailed 3D models, analyze design feasibility, and collaborate efficiently. Whether you're looking to improve product quality or reduce development costs, NX CAD provides scalable solutions that align with the specific needs of your growing team.
Why I Picked NX CAD
I picked NX CAD because of its advanced digital twin capabilities, which are helpful for designers aiming to simulate real-world performance in a virtual environment. With its sophisticated parametric modeling, you can easily visualize complex geometries, allowing for more precise control over design iterations. Additionally, the integrated generative design feature helps your team explore a multitude of design options based on specified constraints, thus optimizing material usage and enhancing innovation. These features make NX CAD a compelling choice for any design team focused on pushing the boundaries of what's possible in product development.
NX CAD Key Features
In addition to its digital twin and generative design capabilities, NX CAD offers a variety of features that can enhance your design process:
- Synchronous Technology: This feature allows your team to make rapid edits to models without the need for a history tree, enabling faster iterations and adaptability to design changes.
- Advanced Simulation: With built-in simulation tools, you can test and validate design performance under various conditions, reducing the need for physical prototypes and speeding up the development cycle.
- Collaborative Design: NX CAD facilitates teamwork with its cloud-based collaboration tools, allowing multiple team members to work on the same project simultaneously, regardless of their location.
- Customizable User Interface: The interface can be tailored to suit your workflow preferences, helping to improve productivity by aligning the tool with your specific design needs.
Native integrations include Siemens Teamcenter PLM, Siemens NX CAM, immersive engineering for XR/VR environments, AI capabilities for workflow optimization, Simcenter, Tecnomatix, ANSYS, Abaqus, CATIA, SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Inventor, and other software options.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integrated simulation tools reduce the need for physical prototypes
- AI integration enhances design workflows by automating repetitive tasks
- Offers advanced digital twin capabilities, allowing users to simulate real-world performance
Cons:
- Software can be costly to acquire and maintain, especially for small to medium-sized enterprises
- Requires high-performance computer
For those in the manufacturing industry seeking a sophisticated design tool solution, DELMIAWorks stands out by offering a unique blend of ERP and MES capabilities tailored specifically for small to midsize manufacturers. This platform provides real-time data and analytics that enhance operational efficiency and improve product quality, addressing challenges like data silos and sluggish decision-making. If your business values collaboration and end-to-end visibility in its design processes, DELMIAWorks offers the technological infrastructure needed to thrive in a competitive manufacturing landscape.
Why I Picked DELMIAWorks
I picked DELMIAWorks because it excels in integrating design and manufacturing processes. Its real-time data analytics allow your team to make informed design decisions that can significantly reduce production errors. Additionally, the platform's ability to unify ERP and MES systems provides you with a holistic view of your operations, ensuring that design changes are reflected across manufacturing. This integration addresses the challenge of disjointed processes, making it an ideal choice for those who need a cohesive design and production environment.
DELMIAWorks Key Features
In addition to its fluid integration of design and manufacturing, DELMIAWorks offers several other features that enhance your design tool experience:
- Customizable Dashboards: These provide your team with a personalized view of essential metrics, making it easier to track design progress and performance.
- Advanced Quality Management: This feature ensures that your design outputs meet the highest standards by integrating quality checks throughout the design and production process.
- Supply Chain Management: By optimizing supply chain operations, this feature helps your business maintain the flow of materials and information, crucial for timely project completion.
- Mobile Access: With mobile access, you and your team can collaborate and make design decisions on the go, keeping projects moving forward regardless of location.
DELMIAWorks Integrations
Integrations include SOLIDWORKS xDesign, SOLIDWORKS Electrical, DraftSight, PCB integration, Fishbowl, Makersite, Total ETO, Genius ERP, ImageSite, MRPeasy, Kenesto, Global Shop Solutions, Valispace, Epicor CPQ, and other software options.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Mobile access enables collaboration and decision-making on the go
- Compatible with a wide range of file formats
- Excellent rendering and visualization capabilities
Cons:
- Requires high-end hardware and reliable internet connectivity
- Expensive for small businesses and individuals
AVEVA E3D Design caters to professionals in industries like oil and gas, manufacturing, and infrastructure who need an advanced 3D modeling and design solution. This tool enhances collaboration and project execution by centralizing project data and offering real-time updates, making it indispensable for teams that prioritize efficiency and innovation in their design workflows. Whether you're focused on reducing design time or integrating with existing systems, AVEVA E3D Design addresses these needs with its advanced features and emphasis on digital transformation.
Why I Picked AVEVA E3D Design
I picked AVEVA E3D Design because of its cutting-edge 3D modeling capabilities, which are key to precision and detail. The tool offers advanced visualization features that allow you to see every aspect of your project in real-time, ensuring that all stakeholders are aligned and can make informed decisions quickly. Additionally, its ability to integrate with laser scanning data enhances your project accuracy by capturing existing conditions with high fidelity. These features make it a compelling choice for teams that need to tackle complex design challenges with confidence and precision.
AVEVA E3D Design Key Features
In addition to its exceptional 3D modeling capabilities, AVEVA E3D Design offers several other features that can enhance your design projects.
- Collaboration Tools: Facilitate teamwork with real-time collaboration features that allow multiple team members to work on the same project simultaneously.
- Automated Drawing Production: Save time with automated drawing generation, which easily converts your 3D models into detailed 2D drawings.
- Change Management: Keep track of design changes with detailed change management tools that help you maintain control over project modifications and updates.
- Cloud Integration: Access your projects from anywhere with cloud integration, ensuring that your team can work flexibly and stay connected regardless of location.
AVEVA E3D Design Integrations
Native integrations include include AVEVA Intelligence, AVEVA Enterprise Resource Management, Intratech's Smart 3D PDF Exporter, AVEVA Unified engineering, Visual KPI, AVEVA NET, AVEVA PDMS, AVEVA Pipe Stress, AVEVA Laser Modeller, and other software options.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Change management tools help maintain control over project modifications, reducing errors and rework
- Automated drawing production saves time by converting 3D models into detailed 2D drawings
- Integration with laser scanning data ensures accurate capture of existing conditions
Cons:
- Customization might be limited for specific industry needs, potentially requiring additional integrations
- Integration with other software can occasionally lead to complicated workflows
For those in the design and manufacturing industries, Mastercam offers a versatile CAD/CAM solution that caters to your complex design needs. Whether you're working in industrial design, toolmaking, or product development, Mastercam's extensive suite of CAD tools allows you to create intricate parts with precision. The software addresses challenges in design and machining by providing advanced modeling capabilities, rapid prototyping, and automation features, ensuring that your projects are executed with efficiency and quality.
Why I Picked Mastercam
I picked Mastercam for its exceptional ability to address complex design challenges with its advanced 3D modeling and multi-axis machining capabilities. If your team is focused on precision and detail, you'll appreciate how the software's dynamic milling feature allows for intricate part creation, reducing the time spent on manual adjustments. Additionally, Mastercam's Toolpath Verification ensures that your designs are not only accurate but also optimized for efficient production. These features make it a reliable choice for those who demand accuracy and quality in their design processes.
Mastercam Key Features
In addition to the features that initially drew me to Mastercam, there are several other capabilities that your team might find valuable in the realm of design tools.
- CAD for CAM Design: Mastercam provides a detailed CAD platform specifically designed to integrate with CAM processes, ensuring that your design and manufacturing workflows are synchronized.
- Machine Simulation: With this feature, you can simulate the entire machining process, allowing you to identify and resolve potential issues before actual production, minimizing costly errors.
- Customizable Toolpaths: Mastercam offers customizable toolpaths that enable you to tailor machining strategies to specific project requirements, enhancing flexibility and precision in your designs.
Advanced Tool Libraries: The software includes extensive tool libraries, giving you access to a wide range of tools and parameters to meet diverse design and machining needs. Native integrations are not currently listed by Mastercam.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- The toolpath verification feature helps prevent costly errors by simulating the machining process
- Customizable toolpaths allow users to tailor machining strategies to specific project requirements
- advanced multi-axis machining capabilities, allowing for precise and intricate designs
Cons:
- Limited support for macOS, which could be a drawback for teams using Apple hardware
- Steep learning curve, requiring additional training for beginners
For potential buyers seeking efficient design tools, IronCAD offers a fundamentally better way to design, promoting a natural approach that allows you to make changes easily and learn the system in days rather than months. With its intuitive 3D and 2D capabilities, IronCAD enhances engineering productivity and supports the design process, making it an ideal choice for those looking to bring products to market faster and maximize return on investment. Whether you're in engineering, manufacturing, or product design, IronCAD's ability to accelerate the design journey from concept to production can significantly improve your team's efficiency and flexibility.
Why I Picked IronCAD
I picked IronCAD because of its unique ability to integrate 3D design with a drag-and-drop interface, which significantly accelerates the design process. This feature allows you to quickly assemble models using pre-existing components, reducing the time spent on repetitive tasks. Additionally, IronCAD's dual-kernel technology provides the flexibility to work with both ACIS and Parasolid modeling engines, enhancing compatibility and allowing you to choose the best tool for the task at hand. These capabilities are particularly beneficial for teams looking to improve their workflow efficiency and adapt to varying project requirements without compromising on quality.
IronCAD Key Features
In addition to its unique drag-and-drop interface and dual-kernel technology, IronCAD offers several other features that cater to your design needs:
- SmartAssembly: This feature allows you to automate repetitive tasks by creating assemblies with intelligent behavior, saving time and reducing errors in complex designs.
- TriBall Positioning Tool: With this tool, you can easily manipulate and position parts within your design, offering greater control and precision in your 3D modeling tasks.
- Integrated Rendering: IronCAD provides built-in rendering capabilities that let you visualize and present your designs with high-quality graphics, enhancing presentations and client communications.
- Design Collaboration Suite: This suite enables you to share designs and collaborate with team members in real-time, improving communication and speeding up the design review process.
IronCAD Integrations
Integrations include IronCAD Mechanical, Multiphysics for IronCAD, SimWise Motion, KeyShot, Design Collaboration Suite, Synergy Collaboration, Onshape, Robotmaster, APIus, Octopuz, CAM-POST, ICAM G-Code Simulation, CIMCO Edit, CAMplete TruePath, and other software options.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- The TriBall positioning tool offers unparalleled control and precision in 3D modeling
- Integrated rendering capabilities allow for high-quality visualizations, improving client presentations and design evaluations
- Intuitive interface reduces the learning curve, making it accessible to both new and experienced CAD users
Cons:
- Limited animation and motion capabilities
- Limited documentation and user community
Alibre Design caters to engineers and designers in the mechanical design, prototyping, and manufacturing sectors, offering a versatile 3D CAD platform that enhances precision and workflow efficiency. With its intuitive interface and advanced parametric modeling capabilities, it enables you to easily transition from concept to production. Whether you're a professional seeking detailed data management or a hobbyist exploring intricate designs, Alibre Design provides the tools necessary to streamline your creative processes.
Why I Picked Alibre Design
I picked Alibre Design for its refined parametric modeling capabilities, allowing you to create precise and adaptable 3D models that respond dynamically to design changes. This feature is particularly beneficial for professionals who need to iterate designs without starting from scratch. Another standout feature is its intuitive sheet metal design tools, which are invaluable for those working on complex mechanical assemblies or custom fabrications. With its ability to handle intricate part and assembly configurations, Alibre Design aligns well with the needs of engineers and designers who require detailed and flexible design tools.
Alibre Design Key Features
In addition to its parametric modeling and sheet metal design capabilities, Alibre Design offers a range of features tailored for diverse design needs.
- 3D Part and Assembly Design: Create detailed parts and complex assemblies with ease, ensuring that your designs are both accurate and functional.
- 2D Technical Drawings: Generate precise 2D drawings from your 3D models, providing essential documentation for manufacturing and assembly.
- Photorealistic Rendering: Visualize your designs with high-quality rendering, helping you and your team better understand the aesthetics and functionality of your models.
- Direct Editing Tools: Modify existing geometry quickly, which is especially useful when making last-minute changes or working with imported CAD models.
Alibre Integrations
Key integrations include FEMdesigner AD, SimWise, SimLab Composer, Keyshot, Desktop EDA, and other software options.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Affordable pricing for small businesses compared to other CAD software
- offers advanced parametric modeling, allowing for precise and adaptable 3D models
- Sheet metal design tools provide specialized functionality not always found in other CAD software
Cons:
- May not be suitable for designs that require extensive collaboration
- The software requires specific system requirements, which can limit its accessibility
Other Design Tools
Here are a few more options that didn’t make the best design tools list:
- KeyCreator
For dynamic editing of designs
- Altium Designer
For creating electronics and PCB design
- Simcenter 3D
For simulation-driven product development in various industries
- CircuitStudio
For designing printed circuit boards (PCBs)
- Tebis
For automotive, aerospace, mold and die, and industrial design
- CATIA
For creating large and complex designs
- Inventor
For creating digital mockups of products and parts in a virtual environment
Related Product Management Software Reviews
If you still haven't found what you're looking for here, check out these other related tools that we've tested and evaluated:
- Best Product Management Tools
- Best Product Planning Software
- Best UX Design Tools
- Best Product Development Software
- Best Idea Management Software
- Best Heatmap Software
Selection Criteria for Design Tools
Selecting design tools requires a nuanced understanding of both the functionality these platforms offer and how well they meet specific use cases that are critical to the design process. Through personal trials and extensive research, I've developed a set of weighted criteria to evaluate design tools, ensuring they not only meet generic requirements, but also offer unique value to their users.
Core Design Tool Functionality (25% of total weighting score): To be considered for inclusion on my list of the best design tools, the solution had to support the ability to fulfill common use cases. These include:
- Vector editing and drawing for scalable graphics
- Collaboration tools for team-based projects
- Asset management for organizing and reusing design elements
- High-fidelity prototyping for interactive user experience testing
- Responsive design features for cross-platform compatibility
Additional Standout Features (25% of total weighting score): Standout features distinguish a tool from its competitors by providing innovative solutions to complex design challenges. This evaluation looks for unique and advanced functionalities that enhance the creative process and offer users a competitive edge in their design work. Such functionalities can include:
- Unique tools for AI-driven design suggestions, enhancing creativity beyond basic functionalities.
- Advanced integration capabilities with other software, streamlining workflows across different platforms.
- Customizable user interfaces that adapt to specific project needs or designer preferences, offering a more personalized design experience.
- Innovative prototyping features that allow for more dynamic user experience testing, such as VR integration or real-time user interaction analytics.
Usability (10% of total weighting score): Usability is key to ensuring that designers can leverage the full power of a tool without a steep learning curve, making it an essential factor in tool selection. This criterion assesses:
- A balance between powerful features and a user-friendly interface, ensuring that new users can navigate the tool with ease.
- Design interfaces that are clean and uncluttered, with intuitive drag-and-drop functionalities for ease of use.
Onboarding (10% of total weighting score): Effective onboarding is critical for users to quickly realize the value of a design tool, especially in fast-paced work environments. This evaluation focuses on the availability and quality of educational resources, templates, and support offered to new users, ensuring they can efficiently learn and leverage the tool’s features from day one. I look for:
- Comprehensive training materials, such as video tutorials, interactive product tours, and detailed documentation, to help new users get up to speed quickly.
- Ready-to-use templates and project presets that allow new users to start creating designs with minimal setup time.
Customer Support (10% of total weighting score): Reliable customer support is a safety net for users, providing assistance when they encounter issues or have questions. This criterion ensures that users have the necessary support to overcome any obstacles in their design process by evaluating:
- Access to a knowledgeable and responsive support team through multiple channels, including live chat, email, and phone.
- A rich online community or forum where users can exchange tips, tricks, and advice.
Value For Money (10% of total weighting score): Value for money is not just about the cost but also return on investment in terms of features, efficiency gains, and output quality. This evaluation compares the pricing and subscription models of different tools against their offered functionalities and benefits, ensuring users receive maximum value for their investment. This includes:
- Competitive pricing models that offer good value based on the features and capabilities provided.
- Flexible subscription options that cater to different user needs and budget constraints.
Customer Reviews (10% of total weighting score): Customer reviews offer invaluable insights into a tool's real-world performance, user satisfaction, and potential drawbacks. This criterion leverages feedback from a broad user base to gauge overall satisfaction levels to guide potential buyers in making informed decisions. It assesses:
- High ratings for ease of use, feature set, and customer support, indicating overall satisfaction with the tool.
- Positive feedback on the tool's ability to streamline the design process and improve team collaboration.
This comprehensive approach ensures that users can select design tools that are capable of supporting the full spectrum of design activities, from initial concept through to final prototype, in a way that maximizes creativity, efficiency, and collaboration.
How to Choose Design Tools
With so many different design solutions available, it can be challenging to make decisions on what design tool is going to be the best fit for your needs.
As you're shortlisting, trialing, and selecting design tools consider the following:
- What problem are you trying to solve - Start by identifying the design tool feature gap you're trying to fill to clarify the features and functionality the design tool needs to provide.
- Who will need to use it - To evaluate cost and requirements, consider who'll be using the software and how many licenses you'll need. You'll need to evaluate if it'll just be the product design professionals, or the whole organization that will require access. When that's clear, it's worth considering if you're prioritizing ease of use for all, or speed for your design tool power users.
- What other tools it needs to work with - Clarify what tools you're replacing, what tools are staying, and the tools you'll need to integrate with, such as accounting, CRM or HR software. You'll need to decide if the tools will need to integrate together, or alternatively, if you can replace multiple tools with one consolidated design tool.
- What outcomes are important - Consider the result that the software needs to deliver to be considered a success. Consider what capability you want to gain, or what you want to improve, and how you will be measuring success. For example, an outcome could be the ability to get greater visibility into performance. You could compare design tool features until you’re blue in the face, but if you aren’t thinking about the outcomes you want to drive, you could be wasting a lot of valuable time.
- How it would work within your organization - Consider the software selection alongside your workflows and delivery methodology. Evaluate what's working well, and the areas that are causing issues that need to be addressed. Remember every business is different — don’t assume that because a tool is popular that it'll work in your organization.
Trends in Design Tools for 2025
For design tools, 2025 has seen some significant advancements and shifts that reflect the evolving needs of product design professionals. This analysis aims to highlight these new trends, focusing on functionality improvements and adaptations and how they address specific needs within the product design landscape.
Trends in Design Tools and Technology
- Integration with AI and Machine Learning: The integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies into design tools has been a standout trend. These features are rapidly evolving to offer predictive design suggestions, automate routine tasks, and facilitate more intuitive user experiences. For instance, AI-driven auto-correction and enhancement features in image editing tools have significantly reduced manual editing time, showcasing a shift towards more intelligent, assistive design technologies. P.S., Check out our curated list of top AI design tools to find the right fit for your needs.
- Collaboration and Remote Work Features: Enhanced collaboration features have become a mainstay in design tools, responding to the global shift towards remote work. Real-time co-editing, cloud-based file sharing, and integrated communication tools have seen substantial updates, making teamwork more seamless and efficient. This evolution mirrors the growing demand for tools that support a distributed workforce while maintaining project cohesion.
- High-Fidelity Prototyping Capabilities: There's been a marked increase in the sophistication of prototyping features within design tools. The ability to create more realistic and interactive prototypes—complete with animations, transitions, and user interaction simulations—has become more advanced. These updates reflect the need for designers to more accurately visualize and test user experiences before final development stages.
- Sustainability and Inclusivity Features: A novel and somewhat unusual trend is the incorporation of features aimed at promoting sustainability and inclusivity in design. Tools now offer guidelines and checks for creating designs that are accessible to a wider range of users and have a lower environmental impact. This functionality is emerging in response to a growing recognition of the social and environmental responsibilities of design work.
Evolving and In-Demand Features
- Cloud-Based and Cross-Platform Accessibility: Cloud-based design tools and those offering cross-platform compatibility are also becoming increasingly important in the product design space. This reflects the need for flexibility in accessing and working on projects across different devices and operating systems, catering to the modern designer's mobile and versatile work style.
Features Becoming Less Important
- Overly Complex Feature Sets: There's a noticeable move away from tools overloaded with complex features that have steep learning curves. Simplicity, efficiency, and ease of use are becoming key, as designers seek tools that allow them to focus more on creativity and less on navigating cumbersome software interfaces.
The landscape of design tools in 2025 is one of rapid innovation and adaptation, driven by the evolving needs of product design professionals. As these trends continue to unfold, they not only reflect the current priorities and challenges within the design community, but also signal the direction of future software development in the field.
What are Design Tools?
Design tools encompass a variety of software used to create, edit, and optimize visual elements in design projects. These tools range from graphic design software to user interface design tools, providing designers with the functionalities they need to bring their creative visions to fruition.
The essential features these design tools offer are drawing and painting tools, layers, image editing, typography, vector editing, exporting to different file formats, and collaboration tools. Graphic design, web design teams, and other creative professionals use these tools to communicate their ideas visually.
Features of Design Tools
Design tools play a crucial role in the creative process, serving as the bridge between a designer's vision and the final product. These tools not only allow for the initial creation of design concepts, but also support their visualization and refinement through to the finished prototype. As such, selecting the right design tools with the right features can dramatically enhance the efficiency and quality of the design process. Here are some key features to look for when choosing design tools to facilitate these critical stages of design development.
1. Intuitive User Interface: A tool that is easy to navigate and understand. This is essential because it allows designers to focus more on their creative process rather than spending time learning how to use the software.
2. Vector Editing Capabilities: Offers precise control over design elements. Vector editing is vital for creating scalable designs that maintain their quality at any size, which is crucial for a wide range of applications.
3. Collaboration Features: Enables real-time collaboration with team members. Collaborative design software enables a seamless workflow, allowing multiple team members to work on the same project simultaneously and share feedback instantaneously. Additionally, integrating feedback efficiently is critical to collaboration. For a deeper dive into tools that improve design feedback processes, explore our blog on the best design feedback tools to enhance your team's workflow.
4. Comprehensive Asset Library: Provides a wide range of pre-made assets. Having access to a vast library of assets can significantly speed up the design process by providing ready-to-use elements that can be customized as needed.
5. High-fidelity Prototyping: Allows for the creation of interactive prototypes. High-fidelity prototyping is crucial for testing and refining user experiences, ensuring the final product is both functional and user-friendly.
6. Version Control: Tracks changes and revisions over time. Version control is indispensable for managing multiple iterations of a design, enabling designers to explore different directions without losing previous work.
7. Compatibility with Other Tools: Ensures seamless workflow integration. Being able to integrate and exchange files with other design and productivity tools is crucial for maintaining an efficient workflow across different stages of the design process.
8. Customization Options: Offers the ability to tailor the workspace and tools to one's needs. Customization enhances efficiency by allowing designers to set up their workspace in a way that best suits their workflow and project requirements.
9. Responsive Design Features: Facilitates the creation of designs that work on multiple devices and screen sizes. This feature is increasingly important in a world where digital content is accessed from a wide variety of devices.
10. Extensive Export Options: Supports a wide range of file formats for output. Having multiple export options is essential for delivering the final product in the required format, whether for print, web, or app development.
These features not only help in creating visually appealing designs, but also ensure that the designs can be effectively tested, refined, and delivered across various platforms and media. The goal is to choose tools that both meet the current needs of a project and support the evolving demands of future projects, making the design process as smooth and efficient as possible.
Benefits of Design Tools
By leveraging powerful design tools, users can streamline their workflows, enhance collaboration, and bring their creative visions to life with greater efficiency and precision. Here are five primary benefits of design tools that are particularly compelling for potential buyers in the market:
1. Increased Efficiency: Design tools come with features like templates, drag-and-drop interfaces, and automation that significantly reduce the time and effort required to produce high-quality designs, allowing businesses to deliver projects faster and with less manpower.
2. Enhanced Collaboration: Modern design tools often include real-time collaboration features, enabling team members to work together seamlessly, regardless of their physical location, which can lead to better communication, faster decision-making, and a more cohesive final product.
3. Improved Accuracy and Consistency: Design software provides tools for precise editing and layout options, as well as style guides and asset libraries, which help maintain consistency across a brand's visual identity, enhancing professional appearance and brand recognition.
4. Scalability: With design tools, organizations can easily scale their design efforts up or down based on current needs without significant changes to their workflow or additional investment in new software, making it easier to adapt to project demands and market changes.
5. Cost Savings: By enabling in-house teams to produce professional-level designs, organizations can lower their reliance on costly external design agencies and freelancers, leading to significant long-term savings on project and operational costs.
The adoption of design tools offers compelling advantages for both individual users and organizations. For potential design tool buyers, understanding these benefits is key to making informed decisions that will enhance their operational capabilities and competitive edge in the marketplace.
Costs & Pricing for Design Tools
Design tools typically offer a range of plans to cater to different user needs, from individuals and small teams to large enterprises. These plans vary both in price and in the features and capabilities they provide, making it crucial for buyers to understand what each plan offers and how it aligns with their specific requirements.
Below is a breakdown of the common plan options and pricing for design tools, designed to help demystify the selection process for those new to using such software.
Plan Comparison Table for Design Tools
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
|---|---|---|
| Free | $0 | Basic design features, limited templates, essential tools, single-user access, basic support |
| Individual | $10 - $30/month | Advanced design capabilities, more templates, cloud storage, premium assets, email support |
| Professional | $30 - $60/month | Collaboration tools, team management, unlimited cloud storage, priority support, advanced analytics |
| Business | $60 - $100+/month | Advanced security features, SSO, custom branding, dedicated account manager, enterprise support |
| Enterprise | Custom Pricing | Custom integrations, full feature access, on-premise deployment options, 24/7 support, training sessions |
When selecting a plan, software buyers should consider the scale of their projects, the size of their team, and the specific features they need to effectively execute their design tasks. It's essential to balance cost against functionality to ensure that you choose a plan that not only fits your budget, but also adequately supports your design processes and goals.
Design Tools Frequently Asked Questions
Here are a few popular questions answered for your convenience!
How do I choose a design tool?
Here are some factors to consider when choosing a design tool:
- Purpose: Understand the purpose for which you need a design tool, as different tools have different purposes, such as graphic design, web design, or user experience/UI design. Some popular graphic design tools are Canva, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Creative Cloud, and Figma.
- Compatibility: Check the compatibility of the design tool with your operating system and other software.
- Features: Make sure the tool offers all the essential features required to make designs.
- Price: Design software varies in price, so determine your budget while selecting a design tool.
- User Interface: A complex interface can hamper productivity and creativity. Look for tools with an easy and intuitive interface.
- Customer support and community: Look for design tools that offer good customer support and a supportive community. This can be helpful if you run into any issues while using the tool.
What other product-building software should I use?
Here are some other product-building software you might want to try:
- Best UX Design Tools For Product Developers
- Best Prototyping Tools For Product Managers
- Best Product Analytics Tools & Software
What’s the Difference Between Design Tools and Product Design Tools?
Design tools and product design tools serve different purposes but can overlap in functionality. Design tools, like Figma or Adobe XD, focus on creating visual assets, wireframes, and prototypes for designers. They are ideal for crafting interfaces and testing user experiences.
Product design tools, such as Productboard or Miro, support the entire product development lifecycle. These tools go beyond visuals to include workflow management, user feedback integration, and development handoff features, making them essential for cross-functional teams.
While design tools prioritize visual creation, product design tools emphasize collaboration and aligning teams on product goals. For example, you might use Figma for designing UI components and Productboard to gather feedback, prioritize features, and manage progress.
Choosing the right tool depends on your needs: design tools are best for creating visuals, product design tools are suited for holistic product planning, and using both together can provide a comprehensive solution.
Use Design Tools To Bring Your Ideas To Life
Design tools help businesses transform their product ideas into concrete representations. They also facilitate communication between team members and ensure everyone is working towards the same vision. With that in mind, I hope this top 10 list helped you find the right design tools for your team.
Just getting started? Design starts well before the first pixel gets pushed. If you're still in the inspiration phase, moodboard creator tools can help you define the visual language and direction before diving into execution.
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