The best free design programs in 2026

The most recommended FREE design programs! Whether you’re looking for a new photography, video or design editor or just looking to expand your creative skills, we’ve got you covered with this list of free software.

P.S. Some programs may ask for donations or have a paid version, but all recommendations have a free version & have been recommended by the design community.

If you are looking for more free design resources, check out our full list of recommendations here or you can sign up to our newsletter or Substack for weekly insights.

Happy designing! Rachael & Kelly xoxo

Adobe Express @adobeexpress

• For graphic design, photo & video editing.
• Mobile & desktop app & browser version available.
• Available for Windows, Mac, Android & iOS.

Affinity (by Canva) @affinity

• For graphic design, layout, photo editing software.
• App for desktop.
• Available for Windows & Mac.

Canva @canva

• For graphic design & photo & video editing.
• Mobile & desktop app & browser version available.
• Available for Windows, Mac, Android & iOS.

CapCut @capcutapp

• For photography & video editing.
• Mobile & desktop app & browser version available.
• Available for Windows, Mac, Android & iOS.

DaVinci Resolve @blackmagicnewsofficial

• For professional photography & video editing.
• App for desktop.
• Available for Windows, Linux & Mac.

Figma @figma

• One workspace for website & app design.
• Desktop app & browser version available.
• Available for Windows, Linux & Mac.

GIMP

• Free & open-source GNU image editor.
• App for desktop.
• Available for Windows, Linux & Mac.

Graphite

• Free, open-source vector graphics editor & animation engine.
• Desktop app & browser version available.
• Available for Windows & Mac.

Inkscape @inkscapeofficial

• Free & open-source vector graphics editor.
• App for desktop.
• Available for Windows, Linux & Mac.

Krita @krita_foundation

• Free & open-source painting program.
• App for desktop & tablet.
• Available for Windows, Linux & Mac.

Linearity @linearityhq

• For design, illustration & animation.
• App for desktop & tablet.
• Only available on Mac devices.

Photopea @photopeacom

• Free online photo editor.
• Works in your browser.
• Works on Windows, Linux & Mac.

Pinta

• Free, open-source program for drawing & image editing.
• App for desktop.
• Available for Windows, Linux & Mac.

Scribus

• Open-source programme for professional layout design.
• App for desktop.
• Available for Windows, Linux & Mac.