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Design & UI comparison

Microsoft Designer vs Recraft

Our pick: Recraft scores 8.5/10 against 7.6/10 for Microsoft Designer. Here's how they differ and which one fits your needs.

Microsoft Designer

Microsoft's AI graphic design app

7.6/10Free plan
Visit Microsoft Designer
VS

Recraft

AI image and vector generator built for designers

8.5/10From $12/moOur pick
Visit Recraft

At a glance

Microsoft DesignerRecraft
Our score7.6/108.5/10
Best forSmall businesses, Students, Casual usersDesigners, Brand teams, Illustrators
TypeGraphic designGraphic design
PricingFree planFree plan
Starting priceFree$12/mo
PlatformsWeb, iOS, Android, WindowsWeb, API
Launched20232022

Key features

Microsoft Designer

  • Prompt-to-design
  • AI image generation
  • Restyle and erase
  • Templates
  • Microsoft 365 integration

Recraft

  • Vector (SVG) generation
  • Icon sets
  • Brand style consistency
  • Mockups
  • Infinite canvas
  • API

Microsoft Designer: pros and cons

Pros

  • Free with a Microsoft account
  • Quick results for simple graphics

Cons

  • Limited advanced controls
  • Fewer templates than rivals

Recraft: pros and cons

Pros

  • Real vector output
  • Strong style consistency for brand assets
  • Top-ranked image model

Cons

  • Learning curve for canvas tools
  • Commercial rights require paid plan

Verdict: Microsoft Designer or Recraft?

Choose Microsoft Designer if you're small businesses or students or casual users and value free with a Microsoft account.

Choose Recraft if you're designers or brand teams or illustrators and value real vector output.

Overall we rate Recraft slightly higher. Both are worth trying, and at least one has a free plan or trial. See all Design & UI tools for more options.

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