Microsoft Designer is a free AI design app from Microsoft. Describe what you want, like a birthday invitation, a social media post or a sticker, and it creates images and designs for you. It also includes quick photo edits like background removal and restyling, and it’s built into Copilot and Microsoft 365 apps.
Here’s what Microsoft Designer can do, how its free AI credits work, and how it compares to Canva in 2026.
Quick Verdict
- Best for: Quick social posts, invitations, stickers and simple graphics, especially for Microsoft 365 users.
- Not ideal if: You need detailed design control, team brand kits or large template libraries. Canva is stronger there.
- Is it free? Yes, with a monthly allowance of AI credits.
What Is Microsoft Designer?
Microsoft Designer is available at designer.microsoft.com, in the Designer mobile apps and inside Microsoft Copilot. It uses AI image models to turn text prompts into images and ready-to-share designs.
What You Can Create
- Images from text prompts
- Social media posts and banners
- Invitations and greeting cards
- Stickers, emojis and clip art
- Wallpapers and avatars
- Photo edits: Remove backgrounds, erase objects, restyle images and frame photos
Microsoft Designer Pricing (2026)
| Option | Price | AI credits |
|---|---|---|
| Free | $0 with a Microsoft account | A monthly allowance (reported around 15 credits) |
| Microsoft 365 Personal | $9.99/month | Several times more credits, plus Office apps |
| Microsoft 365 Family | $12.99/month | More credits for the subscription owner |
| Microsoft 365 Premium | $19.99/month | The highest AI usage for individuals |
Each AI image or edit uses credits. Credit amounts can change, so check your Microsoft account for your current balance.
Note: Prices are based on official announcements at the time of writing and may vary by country, retailer, taxes and promotions. Always check the latest pricing on the official website before buying.
How to Use Microsoft Designer
- Go to designer.microsoft.com or open the Designer app and sign in with a Microsoft account.
- Choose what to create, such as an image, invitation or social post.
- Describe what you want in detail, including style, colors and mood.
- Pick a result and edit text, layout and colors.
- Download or share your design.
Prompt Ideas
- “Watercolor birthday invitation with balloons and soft pastel colors”
- “Instagram post for a coffee shop’s autumn menu, cozy and warm”
- “Cute sticker of a smiling cactus wearing sunglasses”
- “Minimal desktop wallpaper of mountains at sunrise”
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Free with a Microsoft account
- Very easy for beginners
- Good quality AI images
- Built into Copilot and Microsoft 365
Cons
- Limited free AI credits each month
- Fewer templates and design controls than Canva
- No team brand management like dedicated design tools
Microsoft Designer vs Canva
Microsoft Designer is quick and simple, especially if you already use Microsoft 365. Canva Magic Studio offers far more templates, editing control and team features. For images with clear text, try Ideogram. See more options in best free AI image generators, and learn about Microsoft’s assistant in our Copilot guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Microsoft Designer free?
Yes. You can use it free with a Microsoft account and a monthly allowance of AI credits.
How do I get more Designer credits?
Microsoft 365 Personal, Family and Premium subscriptions include more AI credits.
Can I use Microsoft Designer images commercially?
Check Microsoft’s current terms, and avoid creating images of real people, brands or copyrighted characters.
Does Microsoft Designer work on phones?
Yes. There are Designer apps for iPhone and Android, and it’s also available inside Copilot.
Is Microsoft Designer better than Canva?
For quick AI graphics, it’s simple and free. For full design work and templates, Canva is better.
The Bottom Line
Microsoft Designer is a great free tool for quick AI images and simple designs, especially if you use Microsoft 365. Use your free credits for invitations, social posts and stickers, and move to Canva when you need more control. Explore more tools in our AI tools directory.
Related Guides
- VistaCreate Review 2026: A Free Canva Alternative for Social Media Designs
- What Is Adobe Firefly? Features, Pricing and Commercial Use (2026)
- Remove.bg Review 2026: Free Background Remover, Limits and Pricing
- Fotor AI Image Generator Review 2026: Free Credits, Features and Pricing
Explore more in our AI Image and Design Tools hub.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is based on details available at the time of writing. Prices, plans, features, release dates, policies and availability can change at any time and may vary by country. Please verify the latest information on the official website of the company or product mentioned before making any decision or purchase. Next DigiTech is an independent website and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the companies mentioned; all trademarks belong to their respective owners. We are not responsible for any loss or decisions made based on this content.
