19 Best Adobe InDesign Alternatives

Desktop publishing, often abbreviated as DTP, is the use of specialized software to create and publish documents, especially print media such as magazines, newspapers, and brochures. DTP software allows users to create layouts, import and manipulate images, and add text and graphics. It also offers a variety of tools for editing and formatting text, including fonts, colors, and spacing.

DTP software has revolutionized the way documents are created and published. It has made it easier for individuals and businesses to produce high-quality print materials without the need for expensive professional printing services. DTP software has also made it possible to create more dynamic and visually appealing documents, with a wider range of layouts and design options.

Here are some of the key features of desktop publishing software:

• Page layout: DTP software allows users to create layouts for print documents, including setting margins, positioning elements, and managing page numbers.
• Image editing: DTP software typically includes tools for editing and manipulating images, such as cropping, resizing, and adjusting brightness and contrast.
• Text editing: DTP software offers a variety of tools for editing and formatting text, including fonts, colors, and spacing.
• Special effects: DTP software can be used to create special effects, such as drop shadows, gradients, and borders.
• File export: DTP software can export documents in a variety of formats, including PDF, EPS, and TIFF.

DTP software is used by a wide variety of people, including graphic designers, publishers, and marketing professionals. It is also used by individuals who need to create professional-looking documents, such as resumes and flyers.

What is Adobe InDesign

Adobe InDesign is a desktop publishing software program developed by Adobe Systems. It is part of the Adobe Creative Cloud suite of products. InDesign is designed for creating and publishing high-quality print and digital publications, including brochures, magazines, newspapers, books, catalogs, and interactive PDFs.

InDesign is a popular choice for professional designers and publishers, as well as for individuals who need to create high-quality print and digital publications. It is a powerful and versatile tool that can be used to create a wide variety of documents.

Here are some of the reasons why you might choose Adobe InDesign:

• It is a powerful and versatile tool that can be used to create a wide variety of documents.
• It has a wide range of features for creating and publishing print and digital publications.
• It is easy to use and learn.
• It is part of the Adobe Creative Cloud suite of products, which makes it easy to collaborate with others and share your work.

If you are looking for a powerful and versatile desktop publishing software program, Adobe InDesign is a great option.

Best Adobe InDesign alternatives

Now that you’re armed with the knowledge of what desktop publishing software is and how to choose the right one, let’s take a closer look at some worthy contenders. Consider this your backstage pass to the 19 best InDesign alternatives, each with its own unique flair and features.

Affinity Publisher

Affinity Publisher is a professional-grade desktop publishing software that seamlessly integrates with the Affinity suite. With advanced features and a sleek interface, it caters to both beginners and seasoned designers. Enjoy precise control over layout and design elements, making it a powerful tool for creating stunning print and digital publications.

Canva

Canva is a user-friendly graphic design platform suitable for all skill levels. Offering a vast library of templates and design elements, it empowers users to effortlessly create eye-catching visuals. Canva is perfect for quick projects, social media graphics, and marketing materials, making design accessible to everyone.

Conga Composer

Conga Composer is a document automation tool designed for Salesforce users. While not a traditional desktop publishing software, it excels in generating dynamic, data-driven documents within the Salesforce environment. Streamline your document creation process and enhance efficiency with Conga Composer.

CorelDRAW

CorelDRAW is a comprehensive vector graphics editor known for its powerful features. Ideal for professional graphic designers, it offers precision tools for illustration, layout, and photo editing. CorelDRAW is a go-to software for creating intricate designs with a focus on detail and artistic expression.

DesignCap

DesignCap is an online design tool that simplifies the graphic design process. With a user-friendly interface and a wide range of templates, DesignCap is perfect for creating posters, flyers, social media graphics, and more. It’s a quick and efficient solution for those who need visually appealing designs without a steep learning curve.

iStudio Publisher

iStudio Publisher is a Mac-exclusive desktop publishing software that combines simplicity with powerful design capabilities. Tailored for macOS users, it provides intuitive tools for creating various document types, from brochures to newsletters. iStudio Publisher offers a balance between ease of use and professional results.

Kofax Power PDF

Kofax Power PDF is a robust PDF editor with features catering to both individual and business needs. While not a dedicated desktop publishing tool, it allows users to create, edit, and collaborate on PDF documents. Its user-friendly interface and advanced functionalities make it a versatile choice for document management.

LibreOffice Suite

LibreOffice Suite is a free and open-source office suite that includes applications for word processing, creating and editing spreadsheets, slideshows, diagrams, and drawings. While not specialized for desktop publishing, it offers basic layout tools, making it a budget-friendly option for simple design projects.

LucidPress

LucidPress is a cloud-based design and layout tool suitable for creating various print and digital documents. Offering collaborative features, it’s an excellent choice for teams working on marketing collateral, reports, and other visually engaging materials. LucidPress simplifies the design process, allowing for easy collaboration and feedback.

Microsoft Publisher

Microsoft Publisher is a popular entry-level desktop publishing software. Integrated into the Microsoft Office suite, it provides users with a range of templates and tools for creating visually appealing documents. While not as advanced as some dedicated design tools, Microsoft Publisher is accessible and familiar to many users.

PageStream

PageStream is a desktop publishing software that caters to users seeking a professional layout and design tool. With support for various file formats and precise control over design elements, it’s a versatile option for creating print-ready documents, including brochures, magazines, and newsletters.

Pagination

Pagination is a cloud-based automated publishing platform designed to streamline the creation of complex documents. Ideal for data-driven reports, catalogs, and financial documents, Pagination automates the layout process, saving time and ensuring accuracy in large-scale publishing projects.

QuarkXPress

QuarkXPress is a powerful desktop publishing software known for its professional-grade features. Used by designers for decades, it offers precise layout control and typography tools. QuarkXPress is a top choice for those who demand high-quality design and layout capabilities in their print and digital publications.

Scribus

Scribus is an open-source desktop publishing software known for its versatility and cost-effectiveness. With a range of professional-grade features, it’s suitable for creating print-ready documents. Scribus empowers users with an alternative to proprietary software, making desktop publishing accessible to all.

Swift Publisher

Swift Publisher is a user-friendly desktop publishing software designed for Mac users. It strikes a balance between simplicity and functionality, making it suitable for creating a variety of documents, from brochures to flyers. Swift Publisher’s drag-and-drop interface makes it accessible for users with varying design skills.

Venngage

Venngage is an online infographic maker and design platform that focuses on creating visually appealing and engaging infographics. While not a traditional desktop publishing tool, Venngage is perfect for users looking to convey information in a visually compelling way, especially for presentations and reports.

VistaCreate

VistaCreate is an online design tool that caters to users looking for a quick and easy way to create visuals for social media, marketing, and more. With a library of templates and customization options, VistaCreate is a straightforward solution for individuals and businesses seeking eye-catching designs without a steep learning curve.

VivaDesigner

VivaDesigner is a desktop publishing software that emphasizes collaborative and professional document creation. With support for complex layouts and an intuitive interface, it’s suitable for users who require precise control over design elements. VivaDesigner is a robust tool for creating visually stunning print and digital publications.

Xara Page & Layout Designer

Xara Page & Layout Designer is a versatile desktop publishing software that combines graphic design with document creation. With a focus on ease of use and professional results, it’s suitable for individuals and businesses alike. Xara’s design tools and templates make it a valuable asset for various projects.

Conclusion

Adobe InDesign has long been the gold standard of desktop publishing. However, with the rise of cloud-based tools and the increasing popularity of user-friendly design platforms, there are now a multitude of InDesign alternatives to choose from. If you’re looking for desktop publishing software that meets your specific needs and budget, there’s sure to be a great option out there for you.