Best AI Design Tools for Non-Designers (Social Media, Ads, Decks)

For those who aren't design experts but need professional-quality visuals, the best AI design tools for non-designers can be a game-changer. Creating eye-catching social media posts, ads, and presentations no longer requires mastering complex software. Paired with the right AI writing tools, you can produce both visuals and copy without hiring a full creative team. We've evaluated over 10 tools and curated a list of the top 6 that offer simplicity, robust features, and affordability. Transparency is key; hence, this list includes a free, open-source option which we earn no commission on.

Our Top Picks at a Glance

How We Evaluated

Our evaluation focused on several core criteria to ensure these tools meet the needs of non-designers. We assessed output quality, ensuring each tool can produce professional-grade visuals. Value for money was crucial, as many users are budget-conscious. Ease of use was paramount, with intuitive interfaces being a must. We also considered feature depth—tools with a wide range of templates and customizations scored higher. Lastly, reliability and customer support were evaluated based on user feedback and documented features.

#1: Canva AI — Best all-in-one design tool for non-designers

Why it earned this rank: Canva AI stands out for its comprehensive suite of design tools that cater to everything from social media graphics to presentations. Its intuitive drag-and-drop interface and extensive library of templates make it a favorite among beginners and freelancers.

Key features:

• Drag-and-drop editor: Simplifies the design process with an intuitive interface.
• Extensive template library: Thousands of templates for diverse needs.
• AI-powered design suggestions: Provides smart recommendations to enhance designs.
• Collaboration tools: Allows teams to work together in real-time. (Marketing teams should also see the best AI tools for marketing teams.)

Pricing: Canva AI offers a free tier with essential tools, while its Pro plan at $12.99/month or $119.99/year offers advanced features like brand kits and priority support.

Who it is for: Ideal for beginners and freelancers who need a versatile design tool without a steep learning curve.

Read our full Canva AI review

#2: Visme — Ideal for creating engaging presentations

Why it earned this rank: Visme excels in creating visually appealing presentations with interactive elements. Its focus on storytelling through design makes it perfect for users looking to create impactful presentations.

Key features:

• Interactive presentation features: Embed videos, polls, and quizzes.
• Branding tools: Customize presentations to fit brand aesthetics.
• Data visualization: Create infographics and detailed charts easily.
• Collaboration capabilities: Share and edit presentations with team members.

Pricing: Visme starts at $29/month, with an annual plan providing additional savings. The business plan offers comprehensive analytics and premium support.

Who it is for: Best suited for professionals who frequently create presentations and need advanced customization options.

#3: Adobe Express — Great for quick social media graphics

Why it earned this rank: Adobe Express provides powerful tools specifically for creating compelling social media content. Its integration with Adobe's ecosystem allows users to leverage a wide range of resources.

Key features:

• Social media templates: Pre-designed templates optimized for various platforms.
• Adobe Stock integration: Access to a vast library of stock photos and illustrations.
• Quick actions: Resize, crop, and enhance photos swiftly.
• Typography tools: Advanced font options for stylish text overlays.

Pricing: Adobe Express is free to use, with the Premium plan at $9.99/month unlocking additional features and resources.

Who it is for: Social media managers looking for a quick and efficient way to produce high-quality graphics.

#4: Crello — Best for ad creatives on a budget

Why it earned this rank: Crello offers a cost-effective solution for creating marketing materials. Its user-friendly platform and competitive pricing make it accessible for those on a budget.

Key features:

• Ad templates: Designed for a variety of advertising formats.
• Animation tools: Add motion to designs with ease.
• Free stock images: Access to a large library of free visuals.
• Collaborative editing: Work with others to refine designs.

Pricing: Crello offers a free version, with its Pro plan available at $10/month for enhanced features and more storage.

Who it is for: Ideal for budget-conscious users who need to create professional ad content without extensive costs.

#5: Desygner — Flexible design tool for various formats

Why it earned this rank: Desygner provides flexibility across multiple design types, including social media, documents, and marketing materials. Its ease of use is complemented by robust customization features.

Key features:

• Multi-format support: Design across social media, print, and digital platforms.
• Custom branding kits: Maintain consistency with brand templates.
• Royalty-free resources: Utilize free photos and graphics.
• PDF editor: Edit and enhance PDF documents directly.

Pricing: Desygner's free version is quite capable, with a Pro+ plan at $9.95/month for additional tools and resources.

Who it is for: Suitable for users with diverse design needs across different media types.

#6: GIMP — Free and open-source design software

Why it earned this rank: GIMP is included for its powerful open-source editing capabilities. Despite a steeper learning curve, it offers comprehensive features for those willing to invest the time.

Key features:

• Advanced image manipulation: Detailed editing tools for professional results.
• Customizable interface: Tailor the workspace to specific workflow needs.
• Plugin support: Extend functionality with community-created plugins.
• Broad file format support: Compatible with most image formats.

Pricing: Completely free, making it an ideal option for those seeking a budget-friendly tool.

Who it is for: Best for tech-savvy users who appreciate open-source software and have the patience to learn its intricacies.

We include GIMP because it earned its spot — not because we earn a commission (we do not).

If you also need video creation tools that require no editing skills, check out our list of the best AI video tools for creators.

What We Left Out

Several tools, while promising, didn't make the list due to specific shortcomings. Stencil offers excellent simplicity but lacks the depth needed for more complex projects. Snappa is user-friendly but its pricing doesn't offer the best value compared to more feature-rich options. Piktochart excels in infographics but isn't versatile enough for broader design needs. RelayThat provides strong brand automation but falls short in customizability, which is crucial for many users. Lastly, Design Wizard is limited by its relatively small template library, restricting creativity.

How to Choose the Right Tool

Selecting the best AI design tool depends on specific needs and priorities. If budget is your primary concern, Crello offers substantial features at a low cost. For those prioritizing versatility and ease of use, Canva AI is unmatched. If presentation design is your focus, Visme provides specialized tools that enhance storytelling. Users needing advanced editing capabilities without breaking the bank should consider GIMP, especially if open-source solutions appeal. For AI-generated images specifically, see our Midjourney vs DALL-E vs Leonardo comparison.

FAQ

What is the best free AI design tool?

GIMP stands out as the best free AI design tool for those comfortable with a more complex interface, offering powerful editing features without any cost.

Is Canva AI worth the price?

Absolutely. Canva AI offers extensive features, including a vast template library and collaboration tools, making it worth the investment for many users.

Can I use AI design tools to create ads?

Yes, tools like Crello and Canva AI are specifically designed to create engaging ad content with ease, providing templates and resources to streamline the process.

What is the cheapest option that still delivers quality?

Crello offers excellent design capabilities at just $10/month, making it the most affordable option without sacrificing quality.

For video editing, tools like Pictory and Descript can complement your design workflow by turning visual assets into short-form video content. Solopreneurs on a tight budget should also explore the best free AI tools for solopreneurs for more no-cost options. This comprehensive guide helps non-designers navigate the best AI design tools for their specific needs, ensuring professional results without the professional price tag.