Microsoft Designer vs Plus AI (2026): Pricing, Features & Which to Choose

Who comes out ahead

Based only on the facts in our directory. The right pick still depends on the job you need done.

Lower starting price
Not comparable
Not comparable: Microsoft Designer does not list a price
Free plan
Microsoft Designer
Only Microsoft Designer has one
Higher rating
Plus AI
4.1 against 4.3
Same job?
Yes
Both are Design tools

Side by side

Compared on	Microsoft Designer	Plus AI
Our rating	4.1	4.3Better
Starts at	Free	$10/mo
Free plan	YesBetter	No
Category	Design	Design
Plans	Free	Basic$10/month Pro$20/month Team$30/month
Key features	Template-first design editing similar to Canva's approach Built-in DALL-E image generation Integrated into Microsoft 365 Completely free to use Accessible without a new account for existing Microsoft users	AI generation embedded inside Google Slides and PowerPoint No separate standalone app or file format to manage Works within existing team templates and brand assets No self-serve free tier Built as an add-on rather than a new platform
Pros	Completely free with no paid tier required Built-in DALL-E generation without a separate image tool Direct integration into Microsoft 365 for existing users	No migration needed for teams already using Slides or PowerPoint Keeps existing templates and brand assets intact Avoids export-and-recreate friction from standalone AI presentation apps
Cons	Smaller template library than more established competitors like Canva Less differentiated for users outside the Microsoft ecosystem Fewer advanced brand and team features than dedicated business design platforms	No free tier to test before committing Limited to the capabilities Slides or PowerPoint's add-on framework allows Less distinctive design flexibility than a purpose-built standalone app
Company	Microsoft, founded 2023	Plus Docs, Inc., founded 2021

Prices come from each vendor's pricing page, last checked 20260706. Check the vendor before you buy.

FAQ

Questions people ask

Is Microsoft Designer better than Plus AI?

In our reviews Microsoft Designer scores 4.1 and Plus AI scores 4.3. The better pick depends on the job. Microsoft Designer: Microsoft's Canva competitor, backed by DALL-E image generation. Plus AI: AI slide generation that lives inside Google Slides and PowerPoint.

Which is cheaper, Microsoft Designer or Plus AI?

Microsoft Designer: free. Plus AI: from $10/mo.

Do Microsoft Designer and Plus AI have free plans?

Only Microsoft Designer has a free plan.

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