Best presentation software of 2024
Perfect slideshows for speeches, talks, and presentations
- Best overall
- Best for media
- Best unique
- Best for branding
- Best for marketing
- Best for themes
- How we test
We list the best presentation software, to make it simple and easy to make and manage slideshow presentations to display to an audience.
Presentation software runs at the heart of business sales, management, and development, so it's important to ensure you have the best presentation software for your needs. This is especially when looking to share ideas, concepts, and workflows, and the ability to present these in a simple and understandable way is essential.
However, while presentation software has been traditionally limited to text and images, it has widened its ability to work with different media such as video and audio.
Therefore it's important for the best presentation software to not simply be easy and simple to use, but also be able to support additional media so that presentations can be more engaging, lively, and ultimately serve their purpose in educating and updating their intended audience.
Below we've listed the best presentation software currently on the market.
We've also listed the best free presentation software .
The best office software in the world is: Microsoft 365 There are many different office software suites out there, but Microsoft Office remains the original and best, offering an unsurpassed range of features and functionality that rivals just can't match.
Even better, Microsoft 365 - previously branded as Office 365 - is a cloud-based solution which means you can use it on any computer, mobile device, or smartphone, without having to worry about compatibility. All your files are saved in the cloud and synced between devices, so you can begin work on a document at home or in the office, then continue working on it on the go.
You can sign up to Microsoft 365 here .
The best presentation software of 2024 in full:
Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.
Best presentation software overall
1. PowerPoint
Our expert review:
Reasons to buy
For most people, Microsoft 's PowerPoint remains the original and best of all the presentation software platforms out there. While other companies have managed to catch up and offer rival products worthy of consideration, the fact is that PowerPoint's familiar interface and ubiquitous availability means it remains a favorite for the majority of people.
On the one hand, it's long been a staple of the hugely popular Microsoft Office suite, meaning that for most users this is going to be the first - and last - presentation software they are going to need to use.
Additionally, Microsoft has made PowerPoint, along with their other office products, available as free apps (with limited functionality) on both iOS and Android for mobile use, meaning it's even harder to avoid them. And this is before we even consider the inclusion of PowerPoint in Microsoft's cloud-based Microsoft 365.
It does everything necessary that you'd expect of presentation software, allowing you to add text and media to a series of slides, to accompany a talk and other presentations. There are easy-to-use templates included to help spice things up a little, but even a general user with little experience of it is likely to find themselves able to use PowerPoint without much trouble at all.
Overall, it's hard to go wrong with PowerPoint, and although Microsoft 365 has a nominal cost, the apps are free to use even if they do have more limited functionality.
Read our full Microsoft PowerPoint review .
Our Microsoft discount codes can help you save on your next purchase.
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Best presentation software for media
2. SlideDog
Reasons to avoid.
It’s all too easy to end up creating a presentation that’s unappealing, and the last thing you want to do is make the audience fall asleep. SlideDog lets you combine almost any type of media to create a rich presentation that’s sure to keep the viewers’ peepers open, avoiding the ‘cookie cutter’ look that makes presentations seem dull.
Marketed as a web-based multimedia presentation tool, it gives you the ability to combine PowerPoint presentations, graphics, PDF files, Prezi presentations, web pages, pictures, videos, and movie clips. You can drag these into custom playlists and display them to your audience with ease.
You’re able to remotely control your presentations and playlists from your smartphone, the web, or a secondary computer, and there’s also the option to share slides in real-time. Audience members can even view your slide from their own devices by clicking a link. That’s a handy feature if you’re looking to create an immersive presentation experience.
SlideDog is probably the cheapest of the presentation software featured, with a free account that will cover the essential features. However, for live sharing and premium support, you need to upgrade.
Read our full SlideDog review .
Best unique presentation software
Prezi is one of the more unique presentation tools. Instead of presenting your graphics and text in a slide-to-slide format, you can create highly visual and interactive presentation canvases with the goal of “emphasizing the relationship between the ideas”.
Presentations can also be tailored to the specific audience, as this is a flexible platform that’s capable of skipping ahead, or veering off into a side topic, without having to flip through all the slides to get to a particular bit.
For business users, there are a variety of handy tools available. By downloading Prezi , you can build and edit presentations with your colleagues in real-time, which is perfect for companies with teams based around the globe.
When you have created a presentation you’re happy with, you can present it live (in HD) and send a direct link to viewers. There are some analysis tools here, too – you can see who’s accessed your presentation, which parts of it, and for how long. The app is available for Mac and Windows devices.
Read our full Prezi review .
Best presentation software for branding
4. CustomShow
Branding says a lot about a business, and it’s something firms need to get right from day one – from a good logo to a suitable font. CustomShow is business presentation software that puts all these elements of branding first.
Using the system, you can design and present customized, branded presentations that reflect your company and the products you offer, featuring the aforementioned logo and custom fonts. As well as this, you get a slide library and analytics to ensure your presentations are a success.
What’s more, you can import presentations into the software, and use it to tweak them further. There’s also integration with SalesForce , and because the platform is cloud-based, you can access your presentations on computers, tablets, and smartphones.
Considering the focus on branding, this offering could be good for marketing and sales teams, and it's used by major companies such as HBO and CBS Interactive.
Best presentation software for marketing
5. ClearSlide
Just like CustomShow, ClearSlide has a niche focus for companies. The platform is targeted at firms looking to generate successful marketing campaigns, pushing sales via presentations (and more), not least through a range of analytics and metrics to work for sales and marketing.
With the product, you can upload a range of files, including PowerPoint, Keynote, PDF, and Excel. ClearSlide is integrated with other platforms, including Google Drive, Dropbox, and Salesforce.
This system is pretty complex and may offer too many irrelevant features for some businesses, but you can create customized content that reflects your company and the message you’re trying to get out to customers. There are also some good metrics and analysis features, and you can sign up for a free trial before making any decisions.
The real strength of ClearSlide comes from its focus on sales and marketing data, not least being able to track user engagement alongside other metrics.
Best presentation software for themes
6. Haiku Deck
Any presentation app will allow you to personalize your slides to at least some extent, but Haiku Deck goes one step further than the competition. It comes with a wide range of themes suited to different needs, and you also get access to 40 million free images from the Creative Commons collection.
When it comes to creating a presentation, you have the option to do so on the web, which means your presentation is accessible across a range of mobile devices as well as desktops. Regardless of the device used, you’re able to select from a variety of different fonts, layouts, and filters to make the perfect presentation.
The great thing about these various customization options is that they’re categorized into different industries and use cases. For instance, you’ll find themes for teaching, cooking, real estate, and startups. Most of the features require you to be online, but hopefully, you’ll have a sturdy net connection wherever you go.
Other presentation software to consider
Google Slides is part of the Google Workspace (formerly G Suite) office platform intended as an online alternative to Microsoft Office. It may seem a little limited by comparison to PowerPoint, but as it's browser-based that means cross-platform compatibility. Additionally, it allows for collaborative work, and Google Slides really works well here. On top of the fact that it integrates with the rest of the Google Workspace apps, not least Google Drive, and you have a contender.
Zoho Show is another of the many, many tools and apps that Zoho has made available for business use. It also operates in the cloud so it's accessible to any device with a browser, and it also allows for collaborative work. You can also easily share the link for users to download, or provide a live presentation online. The updated version has a simpler and easier to use interface and comes with a free version and a paid-for one with expanded features.
Evernote is normally thought of as just note-taking software, but it does provide the option to create a presentation you can share online or with an audience. In that regard, it's a little more limited than the other options in not being dedicated presentation software. However, as an easy and handy way to pull together a presentation quickly, it could serve as a backup or last-minute option, especially if Evernote is already being commonly used by you.
LibreOffice Impress is part of the open-source suite offered as a free alternative to Microsoft Office, and comes with a powerful array of tools and editing options for your presentation, not least working with 3D images. It's supported by a large community, so it's easy to find an array of additional templates. If there is a limitation it's that it's software you download and install rather than web-based, but any presentations created should be easily portable to the web if needed.
Adobe Spark does things a bit differently, as rather than just use images it's geared toward video as well. This makes for potentially more powerful multimedia presentations, especially as Adobe also has a big selection of photos and images available for its users. There is a free tier for core features but requires a subscription for custom branding, personalized themes, and support.
Slides comes with a lot of features in an easy-to-use interface, and involves setting up presentations using drag and drop into an existing grid. It's also internet-based so there's no software to download, and it only requires a browser to use and access.
Presentation software FAQs
Which presentation software is best for you.
When deciding which presentation software to download and use, first consider what your actual needs are, as sometimes free platforms may only provide basic options, so if you need to use advanced tools you may find a paid platform is much more worthwhile. Additionally, free and budget software options can sometimes prove limited when it comes to the variety of tools available, while higher-end software can really cater for every need, so do ensure you have a good idea of which features you think you may require for your presentation needs.
How we tested the best presentation software
To test for the best presentation software we first set up an account with the relevant software platform, whether as a download or as an online service. We then tested the service to see how the software could be used for different purposes and in different situations. The aim was to push each software platform to see how useful its basic tools were and also how easy it was to get to grips with any more advanced tools.
Read how we test, rate, and review products on TechRadar .
We've also featured the best alternatives to Microsoft Office .
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Best Presentation Software of 2024
Everyone has a message to share in some form. With presentation software, you can communicate that message a little easier and with more spark. If you don't have design and animation skills, don't worry; apps like Google Slides and Microsoft PowerPoint make it easy to craft a slideshow that helps people understand the concepts you're trying to convey.
Many of the apps in this buyers' guide are geared toward business presentations since that is often the primary use case. However, a few provide some slick tools for educators, entrepreneurs, community groups, and even family members to make a photo slideshow for a family reunion. Read on for the best presentation software available today.
Table of Contents
- Best Presentation Software
- Things To Consider When Buying
- How We Chose
Google Slides »
Highly integrated With Other Apps
Totally free
Not integrated with Microsoft products
Minimal support
When Google Slides debuted in 2006, it took the world by storm. That’s because it was integrated even back then with Gmail, Google Docs, and other popular Google apps many of us use in business, at school, and in our personal lives.
Google Slides is entirely free, and there are no hidden costs or upgrade plans. What’s surprising, though, about Google Slides is that it is a highly capable app for presentations – easy to use, with plenty of templates, fonts, animation options, and integrations.
Apart from that, the key feature here is real-time collaboration. Other users can join you as you create and edit slides. They can comment and make suggested changes, or simply start editing the slides on their own. (You can decide if other users can suggest changes or make them directly.) You also can view speaker notes on a laptop when you run the slideshow on an HDTV or projector. Google Slides integrates nicely into the online meeting app Google Meet, and it can open Microsoft PowerPoint files and export in that format as well.
Overall, Google Slides wins extra points because of how intuitive it is. There’s hardly any learning curve with the app, and since it runs in a browser window, everything you create and edit will be saved automatically. For business users, teachers, or just about anyone in a hurry to share a complex message, creating a Google Slides presentation is a snap – which is why it is our overall top pick.
Microsoft PowerPoint »
Highly compatible
Online and desktop versions
Easy to use
No free version
Templates are not as trendy
Microsoft PowerPoint is the app you want for compatibility with other apps and programs. Released in 1990, this presentation app is well-known in business circles and runs on just about any computer in the world. Because it’s so compatible, you will likely not have any trouble running the app on your phone or a tablet, in a browser, or even on seriously outdated PC laptops and desktops.
While apps like Prezi add slick animations and transitions that make a presentation come to life, PowerPoint is more like a trusted business partner; it works on just about any computer, the interface is well-known and straightforward, and it’s likely that everyone you know and collaborate with is already familiar with the app. Every other presentation app we reviewed also supports PowerPoint in terms of directly opening or importing the file, and exporting as a PowerPoint file.
You'll need a Microsoft 365 Personal Edition subscription to use PowerPoint. It may be an app that’s already installed and included with a new computer, at least for a trial period.
Apple Keynote »
Exceptional designs
Desktop only
Graphic designers love Apple Keynote, mostly because the included templates and design options are so stellar. Your presentation will really come to life, helping you communicate about even complex subjects with flair and a trendy look.
Using the app feels a bit like you're the late Steve Jobs creating an award-winning presentation that will grab an audience. Jobs had a way of captivating those in the audience, and Keynote helps you do that with some of the best presentation templates around. For example, there are 40 templates to choose from, many of them full of color and using the trendiest fonts. Keynote also includes 100 transitions and animations to liven up a presentation. The app also includes 700 different shapes and icons that will help you enhance your slides.
Apple Keynote is powerful enough for any user, but it’s important to know the limitations. For starters, Keynote only runs on Mac computers. That makes it less compatible with Google Slides or Microsoft PowerPoint. You can export the presentation from Keynote as a PowerPoint file, which is fine, but it means no one can edit the Keynote slides directly; they will have to use PowerPoint.
Keynote also only runs as a desktop app. That means you won’t benefit from the live editing and commenting features of Google Slides, where you can collaborate with anyone in real time on the same file. Instead, Keynote is more static, as slideshows can't be edited as a group in a browser window. It’s still incredibly powerful and intuitive but with a few key downsides.
Unique concept
Trendy visuals
Unique design templates
Harder to learn
There’s something very compelling about Prezi, the presentation app that provides the most flexibility in terms of the message you are communicating. For starters, this is an app that knows it’s all about the message, whether you're an educator, business owner, entrepreneur, or even a scientist or engineer. Instead of a slideshow, you create a “canvas” with topics and subtopics. Think of it as a way to augment what you are saying with animated annotations, swoosh effects, and charts.
Prezi is the best at guiding you to the most powerful design features and giving you the tools to make even a complex subject more interesting and easier to understand. Part of this extreme flexibility has to do with how you're not creating slides at all, but enhancing a topic. Another way to think of Prezi is more like an animated whiteboard; when you show a presentation, it can come to life as you speak through a webcam.
All of this flexibility means you aren't limited to a boring slideshow, although there may be times when you are asked to make a slideshow and nothing more. For example, a school assignment or a boss might dictate that you need to create basic slides, not an animated whiteboard session. This is where you have to decide if Prezi matches the goals of the message you are communicating about.
Free version available
Added visual tools
Good overall value
It takes more time to learn
Expensive pro plans
Visme is the best budget option because there is a free version that still provides many of the features you might need. It’s also a good value, because (similar to Canva) you can access all of the graphic design features to create infographics, brochures, logos, and rich documents all without paying for the premium version.
Even more important, Visme is a good value if you do choose the Starter or Pro plans because you can then unlock advanced features you might only find in Adobe Visual products. For example, at the Pro level, you can create an entire brand kit for a company including logos, brochures, and flyers that all have the same look.
While it's called an all-in-one marketing design platform and has hints of Canva, the first tool you would likely use is for creating presentations (e.g., It's the most prominent tool listed on their site). Because everything is geared more toward marketing and sales, Visme templates emphasize things like growth metrics, charts, and bullet points used to explain a product or service. Visme is also meant more for a group of business users. You can collaborate in real-time, leave comments on presentations, and even follow a workflow to mark presentation tasks as in progress or done.
Like Canva, because the Visme app is part of a suite of visual design products, it might take a little more time to learn all of the added tools. The presentation tool is just one of many included, even if this tool alone is easy to learn.
Visme is an extensive product with an upgrade path that unlocks more templates, customer support, and more supported file formats. Overall, it’s a good value because you can still create presentations without having to pay extra.
Slidebean »
Design for entrepreneurs and salespeople
Unique features
Not as powerful as some
Not as well-known
Most presentation software is flexible and powerful enough for any message and for any purpose. However, Slidebean focuses on a more narrow segment. The app is designed to create a “pitch deck,” which is something an entrepreneur or salesperson uses to pitch a product.
For example, let’s say your company sells a new widget. Using Slidebean, you can explain the features and benefits, include a slide about pricing, and use the tools that are intended more for selling a concept than perhaps merely explaining it.
Once you finish creating the pitch deck, you can share it as a link for others to view. You can then measure how much time people spend viewing the slides, including time spent on specific slides in the presentation. Another major differentiator with Slidebean is that you can work with professional designers and writers (for a fee, of course) who will create the pitch desk and write all of the copy for you.
Thousand of templates
Integrates with other Canva tools
Limited export options
Known as an “online graphical design platform” for everyday users, Canva provides plenty of tools for creating logos, brochures, postcards, and presentations.
Because these tools are all integrated, Canva is powerful enough for any message you want to communicate. It’s ideal for business, personal use, and schools. If you decide to build a presentation, you can also incorporate logos, fonts, clip art, and animations that are built into Canva. It means the palette for creating a presentation is more flexible because all of the other design tools are right at your fingertips. Let’s say you want to create a pitch deck about a new startup. You can create the logo, choose the colors and fonts, and then create the slideshow. Most presentation apps in our buyers' guide other than Visme don’t provide this level of flexibility and power in one online app.
Canva lets you run the presentation from within Canva itself, or you can export the slides and use them in Microsoft PowerPoint. There are thousands of templates available. Once you select a look and feel for your presentation, you can pivot and use those same graphics, fonts, and designs in a brochure or other material.
With all of this power in terms of visual design software comes a slight learning curve. Canva is intuitive and the interface is well-designed, but there are so many tools available that it takes some time to learn them all.
The Bottom Line
If you're short on time and just need to create a presentation without a lot of hassle, Google Slides is the app for you. It’s completely free without any trial versions of “pro” upgrades, yet it's also quite powerful and intuitive to learn. Google Slides is also our top pick because it integrates into other Google apps like Gmail and Google Docs, is widely used and highly compatible, and still gets the job done when the main goal is to finish a slideshow and share your message.
Things To Consider When Buying Presentation Software
Features and functionality: When it comes to presentation software, it’s all about the templates. As you are considering which app to use, it’s a good idea to evaluate which templates are available and if they meet your needs. We’ve also noted how many templates are included with each app. Beyond that, look for the supported file formats since that will determine who can use and open the presentation. Collaboration features are also important, making it easier to work on a presentation within a group and make comments for everyone to see.
Ease of use and user interface: Creating a presentation shouldn't feel cumbersome. When you start the app, it should be easy to create the first slide from a template, add more slides, fill in the text and images, and finish the entire project without having to learn complex features. Apple Keynote is a good example of an app that's intuitive at first, and then you can always explore more advanced features later on.
Compatibility with different file formats: The most well-known presentation app is Microsoft PowerPoint. So it’s important that the app you choose supports the popular PowerPoint format. Beyond that, look for software that also supports PDF files in case you want a printed version of your slideshow or to share it online.
Collaboration and sharing capabilities: With presentation software, being able to work on a slideshow with a group of people all at the same time can be a time-saver but also produce better results. It should also be easy to leave comments for others to review. Once you're done with the presentation, it should also be easy to share the file or an online version of the presentation with others.
Customization options for design and branding: Visme and Canva allow you to customize the graphics and even make logos and experiment with a variety of fonts. All presentation apps provide ways to edit graphics, resize photos, and even incorporate video into your slideshow. Not every app makes it as easy to edit graphics as Google Slides does, however.
Availability of templates and pre-designed layouts: As with many software programs, templates save time and effort. An app like Microsoft PowerPoint includes pre-designed templates and graphics you can use to enhance a slideshow. Visme is a good example of an app with extensive templates (it has thousands built-in). While Apple Keynote doesn't have as many templates, the ones that are included tend to be more well-designed and trendy.
Pricing and licensing: Most presentation apps offer a monthly subscription to help you get started making a slideshow. In some cases, such as Visme and Slidebean, there’s a basic free version to help you experiment with the app right away. Only Google Slides is entirely free with no extra pricing options. Microsoft also offers a fully licensed version of PowerPoint as opposed to paying for a monthly subscription. The full licensed version costs $159.99.
Customer support and training resources: Microsoft is arguably one of the best companies to choose if you're interested in customer support. Because the product costs a little more – especially if you purchase the full licensed version – it includes extensive technical support. That said, even though Google Slides is free and customer support can be hit or miss, there are so many people using that product that you can usually find answers to questions by doing a simple Google search or asking on public support forums. Also, training videos are more readily available for Google Slides and Microsoft PowerPoint because they're both so popular.
Integration with other software and tools: Integration is key when it comes to presentation software because you want to be able to access important graphics, photos, and videos easily. Canva is perhaps the most integrated option for that reason alone. It's a graphics platform for creating graphics and other design materials, so when you make a presentation, you can easily find what you need.
Security and privacy features: Security and privacy might not be the first concern when it comes to presentation software, since you might be making a simple how-to for employee orientation or a photo slideshow of your vacation. However, for a business creating a new product or for a new startup that has not launched yet, be sure there is a way to protect your presentation from prying eyes.
How We Chose The Best Presentation Software
Our contributor John Brandon poured over specifications and features for the best presentation software around. He’s used presentation apps since the debut of Microsoft PowerPoint and Google Slides. He also consulted with business owners who have started companies and need to communicate about their firms. This includes David Ciccarelli, an entrepreneur who started a company called Voices (an audio and video tech startup) and is the CEO of Lake , a vacation rental business. He also tapped Stephen Gagnon, a web designer with the search engine optimization company Web Scour , who has visual design and branding experience.
WHY SHOULD YOU TRUST US?
John Brandon worked in the corporate world for 10 years, often creating presentations for large teams and at corporate functions. He worked as an Information Design Director at Best Buy Corporation. Since then, he has tested and reviewed thousands of tech products including presentation apps, Wi-Fi routers, televisions, office products, and everything in between. His writing has appeared in Wired magazine, Inc. magazine, FoxNews.com, LAPTOP magazine, and many others.
For anyone who wants to communicate about a new product or service, help new employees with onboarding, or even share photos from a recent vacation, presentation software helps you communicate visually. The basic idea is that you can create a slideshow that augments and enhances what you have to say.
Presentation software is designed to help you communicate a message to an audience, either in a classroom, a conference room, or at home. You create a slideshow, insert graphics, photos, and videos, and then run the slideshow full-screen. When you run the presentation, you can click the mouse button or press the arrow keys on a computer to go back and forth in the slideshow.
Most modern presentation apps charge a monthly fee, usually around $8 or $12 per month. Google Slides is the exception to this rule since it is entirely free. Typically, with higher costs for the pro and premium plans, you gain access to more templates, more graphics, and the ability to export in more file formats, such as HTML or video files. At the high end, Microsoft PowerPoint also offers a fully licensed version, as opposed to a monthly charge.
The classic, tried-and-true presentation apps like Microsoft PowerPoint and Apple Keynote are available as a desktop version you install. In most cases, you will sign up for the app and then download the installation file and run that installer. However, more modern apps like Google Slides and Canva run in a browser window and don't require any installation.
PowerPoint is sometimes included on a Windows laptop. However, if you're looking for a fresh start with new templates and features for animation and video that go beyond PowerPoint and Keynote, you might consider upgrading. Also, presentation tools are now included in apps like Canva and Visme, making them more integrated.
About Our Team
John Brandon
Contributor
Jeff Kinney
Senior Editor
U.S. News 360 Reviews takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.
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Blog Graphic Design 12 Best Presentation Software for 2024
12 Best Presentation Software for 2024
Written by: Krystle Wong Jan 12, 2024
Whether you’re a student, professional or entrepreneur, having access to the right presentation tools can make all the difference.
When you craft a well-executed presentation , your message becomes more memorable. You’re not just sharing information; you’re weaving a story, painting a picture and leaving a lasting impact on your audience’s minds.
We’re living in the age of information overload, where attention spans are shorter than ever. A good presentation slide takes this into account, breaking down complex information into bite-sized chunks. It guides your audience through a logical flow, allowing them to digest information effortlessly and retain key points without feeling overwhelmed.
To help you stay ahead of the game, I’ve compiled a list of the 12 best software for presentations. These PowerPoint alternatives offer a combination of user-friendly interfaces, stunning visuals, collaboration features and innovative functionalities that will take your presentations to the next level.
Let’s dive in and explore these top presentation software picks!
1. Venngage
Allow me to be a little bit biased here but my top pick is none other than, you guessed it — Venngage! Venngage goes beyond just presentations to focus on data visualization and transforming complex information into visually appealing and engaging visuals.
One of the standout features of Venngage as a presentation software is the extensive library of infographic elements. Gain access to a wide range of pre-designed elements such as icons, charts, maps as well as illustrations to simplify the process of creating data-driven and visually appealing presentations.
You don’t have to be a pro when designing with Venngage. Venngage’s drag-and-drop interface allows you to customize your presentations by simply dragging and dropping elements onto the canvas. You can tweak sizes, colors and layouts with ease, making your presentations visually cohesive and personalized, even if you’re not a design wizard.
Just so you know, some of our features and templates are free to use and some require a small monthly fee. Sign-up is completely free, as is access to Venngage’s online drag-and-drop editor. Here’s how Venngage’s presentation maker can become your secret weapon in the quest for presentation success.
Vast selection of templates
Venngage boasts an extensive library of professionally designed templates, catering to a wide range of industries and presentation purposes. Whether you’re creating a marketing report, educational presentation or business pitch, Venngage’s presentation tool offers templates that provide a solid foundation for your designs.
Save 20+ hours of designing with Venngage’s fully customizable, pre-designed infographic templates. Thes e presentation templates provide a good foundation with well-structured layouts and visually appealing aesthetics.
Data visualization made easy
Venngage simplifies the process of data visualization, making it accessible to users of all backgrounds. With a few clicks, you can transform dull statistics into visually engaging charts and graphs that tell a compelling story.
Seamless real-time in-editor collaboration tools
Venngage brings teamwork to the next level with our seamless collaboration tools designed to foster collaboration across teams, departments and the entire organization. Whether you’re in the same room or across the globe, Venngage enables real-time collaboration that makes working together becomes a breeze.
Consistently brand your designs with smart Autobrand features
Effortlessly infuse your presentation slides with your brand’s colors, fonts and logos with Venngage’s My Brand Kit . Upload your brand assets and create engaging presentations by applying your branding to any template you create on Venngage.
Who is it for
Marketers, designers, educators and businesses that require data-driven and visually appealing presentations.
Key features
Infographic elements, data visualization tools, collaboration options, customizable templates.
Create your first 5 designs with Venngage for free and upgrade to a premium or business plan for $10 USD/month per user and $24 USD/month per user to enjoy premium features. For larger teams who need extra support, controls and security, the enterprise plan starts from $499 USD/month for 10+ seats.
Additionally, there are also plans available for classrooms priced at $99 USD/year for up to 35 students per instructor. Non profit organizations can also apply for a nonprofit discount to any Venngage plan.
2. Microsoft PowerPoint
Source: Screenshot from Microsoft PowerPoint
Even with dozens of presentation software and tools out there, PowerPoint presentations have stood the test of time as one of the best presentation software. In fact, 89% of people still use PowerPoint presentations over competitor services .
Whether you’re a student, teacher, business professional or just a creative soul, PowerPoint’s user-friendly interface allows both beginners and experienced users to create presentations with ease.
PowerPoint delivers captivating and engaging presentations through its advanced animation and transition effects. You can create interactive PowerPoint presentations by captivating your audience and guiding them through your content with seamless transitions and eye-catching animations.
Seamless integration with other Microsoft Office tools is another significant advantage of PowerPoint as a presentation software. As part of the Microsoft Office suite, PowerPoint effortlessly integrates with other familiar applications such as Word and Excel. This integration allows you to incorporate charts, graphs and written content from these tools directly into your presentation.
However, collaboration features in PowerPoint can be somewhat limited compared to dedicated collaboration platforms. While you can share and co-edit presentations with others, the collaboration options may not be as robust as those offered by specialized presentation tools.
Suitable for individuals, students, educators and businesses of all sizes.
Customizable templates, multimedia support, extensive slide editing options, robust animations and transitions.
You can subscribe to PowerPoint as part of your Microsoft 365 subscription with various plans tailored for businesses, ranging from $6 to $22 USD/month. Additionally, there is also the option to purchase an unbundled PowerPoint account separately, priced at $159.99 USD.
3. Google Slides
Source: Screenshot from Google Slides
Unlike PowerPoint which requires file sharing and manual syncing for teamwork, Google Slides enables real-time collaboration and easy access from any device with an internet connection.
Google Slides shines in its seamless collaboration capabilities. Multiple users can work on the same presentation simultaneously, enabling real-time editing and fostering efficient teamwork. The integrated commenting feature on Google Slides allows for shared feedback and discussions, enhancing collaboration even further.
Google Slides’ cloud-based storage and auto-saving feature ensures that your work is constantly saved, minimizing the risk of losing progress or important changes. No more panicking over unsaved slides and changes.
But that also means that Google Slides heavily relies on an internet connection for full functionality and access is more limited compared to desktop-based software. Although an offline mode is available, Google Slides has certain limitations and may not provide the same level of functionality as when connected to the internet.
Templates and customization features-wise, Google Slides also have fewer design options compared to other presentation tools. This may limit the level of visual creativity and flexibility for those seeking intricate designs or specialized effects.
Ideal for remote teams, educators, students and anyone looking for easy collaboration and access from any device.
Real-time collaboration, shared commenting, offline mode and built-in sharing options.
Google Slides is accessible to all individuals with a Google account at no cost, providing all users with access to its full range of features. However, for businesses and teams looking for additional organizational capabilities, there are subscription plans available ranging from $6 to $18 USD/month.
4. Keynote (for Mac users)
Source: Screenshot from Keynote
For Apple users, Keynote is a presentation tool designed exclusively for your Apple devices and is available on macOS, iOS and iPadOS. Keynote is known for its sleek and intuitive interface, reflecting Apple’s design aesthetics.
It offers visually appealing templates, animations, and transitions, allowing users to create polished and modern-looking presentations. Keynote users can seamlessly incorporate images, videos, audio files and interactive elements into their presentations. The presentation software also includes a wide range of animations and transitions, enabling smooth and cinematic effects that bring slides to life.
Keynote presentations is known for its seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem. It works effortlessly with other Apple applications, allowing users to combine different elements and data from various sources. Presentations created in Keynote can be easily shared and accessed across Apple devices, ensuring a consistent experience for both the presenter and the audience.
Additionally, Keynote as a presentation software offers collaborative editing capabilities, enabling multiple users to work on the same presentation simultaneously. Users can share their presentations with others, who can then provide feedback, make edits and contribute to the project in real-time.
That said, since Keynote is exclusively designed for Apple devices, it may not be accessible or fully compatible with non-Apple platforms. Hence, sharing presentations created in Keynote with users on different platforms may require exporting or converting the files to a compatible format, which can lead to potential formatting issues or loss of certain features.
Mac users, creatives, professionals, educators and anyone who wants visually stunning presentations.
Elegant templates, advanced multimedia options, cinematic transitions and collaborative editing.
Keynote is available for free on Apple devices, including macOS, iOS, and iPadOS. As it comes pre-installed with these devices, users can access and use Keynote without any additional cost.
Source: Screenshot from Prezi
Known for its distinctive zooming presentation style, Prezi revolutionizes the way you create presentations by offering a visually engaging and non-linear approach.
One of Prezi’s renowned features is its unique zooming and transition effects, allowing presenters to navigate through a virtual canvas seamlessly. This dynamic presentation style enhances engagement by creating a sense of movement and spatial relationship between ideas.
Moreover, Prezi offers cloud-based collaboration, making it easy for multiple users to collaborate on a presentation in real-time. This feature facilitates seamless teamwork, enabling users to collectively develop and refine their presentations regardless of their physical locations.
Prezi presentations also include interactive elements, such as embedded videos, images and hyperlinks. Utilizing these elements would allow presenters to create interactive presentations and engage their audience on a deeper level.
However, Prezi has a steeper learning curve compared to more traditional presentation tools. Users may require some time and practice to become proficient in navigating the canvas, creating smooth transitions and effectively utilizing all of Prezi’s features.
Creative professionals, educators and individuals who want to create visually captivating and non-linear presentations.
Zooming presentation style, interactive elements, cloud-based collaboration and reusable templates.
For individuals & business professionals
Basics: Create and share up to 5 visual projects for free
Standard: Starting at $5 USD/month
Plus: Starting at $12 USD/month
Premium: Starting at $16 USD/month
Teams: Starting at $19 USD/month per user (billed annually)
For Students & Educators
EDU Plus: Starting at $3/month
EDU Pro: Starting at $4/month
EDU Teams: Enquiry required with Prezi sales team
Source: Screenshot from Canva
One of the great things about Canva as a presentation tool is its user-friendly interface, which makes it super easy to use even if you’re not a design pro. You can simply drag and drop elements to create your presentation slides without breaking a sweat.
Canva’s vast collection of pre-designed templates caters to various purposes and occasions. The availability of these templates allows users to jumpstart their design projects with professional-looking layouts, saving valuable time and effort.
For businesses or educational institutions working on group projects or marketing campaigns, Canva also offers collaboration features that enhance teamwork and co-creation. Users can invite team members or clients to collaborate on a design project, enabling real-time feedback and efficient design processes.
While Canva does offer some basic slide transition effects, the range and customization options for transitions may be limited compared to dedicated presentation software like Microsoft PowerPoint or Apple Keynote.
Individuals, students, small businesses and startups seeking professional-looking marketing materials and presentations.
Extensive template options, intuitive drag-and-drop interface, ability to share presentations as downloadable files or online links and built-in multimedia support for adding videos , images, and audio to slides.
The free version of Canva provides a wide range of features and resources, with the only limitations being the use of premium resources that can be acquired either through separate purchases or by subscribing to the Canva Pro plan. The Canva Pro plan is available for $12.99 USD per month or $119.99 USD per year.
For collaborative purposes, Canva Teams is available at a price of $14.99 USD per month, with an additional charge of $14.99 USD per month for every team member beyond the initial five.
7. Adobe Express
Source: Screenshot from Adobe Express
As part of the Adobe Creative Cloud suite, Adobe Express is a presentation software that offers a simplified and user-friendly interface. With its intuitive interface, Adobe Express allows users to create visually stunning presentations with ease. Users can access both design professionals and individuals without extensive design experience.
One of the notable advantages of Adobe Express is its seamless integration with other Adobe products, such as Photoshop and Illustrator. This integration enables users to leverage the power of these industry-standard design tools within their presentations, providing access to advanced design features and a vast library of high-quality assets.
Adobe Express is also great for creating interactive presentations. Its extensive multimedia support, allowing users to incorporate videos, audio files and interactive elements to keep your audience engaged. For businesses such as a software development company , leveraging such tools can ensure that custom integrations and interactive features align perfectly with the brand’s goals, resulting in more cohesive and engaging presentations.
That being said, some of its advanced features may require familiarity with other Adobe tools, which can be challenging for beginners who are not already familiar with the Adobe Creative Cloud ecosystem.
Designers, creative professionals, individuals and businesses seeking professional-grade presentation design.
Professional design options, multimedia support, easy integration with other Adobe products and cloud-based collaboration.
While the free version for Adobe Express includes all the core features, users can gain access to premium templates and features when they upgrade to the Premium subscription for $9.99 USD/month.
For businesses and teams, Adobe provides tailored plans that include additional features like collaboration tools, centralized license management and enterprise-level support. The pricing for these plans depends on the number of licenses and the specific needs of the organization. It’s best to consult with Adobe or their authorized resellers to get accurate pricing information for business plans.
8. Haiku Deck
Source: Haiku Deck
Haiku Deck is all about visual storytelling, offering a simple and minimalist approach to designing presentations. With its clean and minimalist templates, Haiku Deck makes it a breeze to create presentations that focus on eye-catching images.
Haiku Deck is a user-friendly presentation software that offers a straightforward and intuitive interface. It’s designed to be easily accessible on both computers and mobile devices, giving you the flexibility to create quick and practical presentations on the go.
Plus, the presentation tool seamlessly integrates with image search engines, making it a piece of cake to find and add high-quality visuals that enhance the overall look and feel of your presentation.
However,if you’re looking for advanced features like complex animations or interactive elements, you might not find them here. While the clean and minimalist templates are gorgeous, they don’t offer as much flexibility for customization.
Educators, individuals and professionals who appreciate the power of visual storytelling and minimalist design.
Image-focused templates, easy-to-use interface, cloud-based collaboration and seamless image search integration.
Haiku Deck offers a free trial that allows you to experience the software with one presentation. If you decide to upgrade, they have different pricing plans available. Additionally, Haiku Deck also offers special pricing to qualifying nonprofit organizations, students and educators.
The Pro plans are available at $9.99 per month with annual billing or $19.99 per month with monthly billing. For those seeking advanced features, the Premium plans are priced at $29.99 per month.
Source: Screenshot from Ludus
Ludus brings together the best of both worlds by offering the traditional slide deck format along with interactive and multimedia elements that take presentations to a whole new level.
The presentation software is rich in multimedia capabilities, allowing users to seamlessly integrate videos, audio and elements to create interactive presentations that captivate the audience.
Ludus offers unique presentation tools that enable users to incorporate interactive elements like clickable buttons, hover effects and embedded web content, enabling a more dynamic and engaging presentation experience.
This makes Ludus a great choice for designers, creatives, marketing professionals, and anyone who wants to create interactive and visually appealing presentations that leave a lasting impression. Collaboration is another area where Ludus excels. The software offers collaborative editing, allowing multiple users to edit presentations simultaneously.
However, it’s worth mentioning that Ludus has relatively limited templates compared to some other presentation software options. While the customization options are vast, users might find themselves starting from scratch or investing more time in creating the initial design. Additionally, for individuals new to the platform, there might be a learning curve involved in fully harnessing all of Ludus’ features and capabilities.
Designers, creatives, marketing professionals and anyone looking for interactive and visually appealing presentations.
Interactive and multimedia elements, collaborative editing, extensive design customization, real-time comments and feedback.
Ludus offers a starting price of $14.99 USD/month per user for teams consisting of 1-15 members with all features included. For larger teams requiring additional licenses, Ludus encourages reaching out for more information on pricing. It’s worth noting that Ludus provides a 30-day free trial, allowing users to explore the platform and its features before committing to a subscription.
10. Slidebean
Source: Screenshot from Slidebean
Slidebean offers a unique approach to slide design by automating the process and simplifying the creation of well-designed presentations. With its automation features, Slidebean streamlines the design process, saving users valuable time and effort.
The highlight of Slidebean is its automated slide design functionality. Using artificial intelligence (AI), the software generates visually appealing slide layouts based on the content provided. Slidebean also offers collaboration options, allowing multiple team members to work on a presentation simultaneously.
Another advantage of Slidebean is its AI-powered content suggestions. The software intelligently analyzes the presentation content and provides helpful suggestions for improving the messaging and overall flow. This feature ensures that users can effectively communicate their ideas and engage their audience.
Unlike Ludus, Slidebean may not cater to users who prefer extensive customization and control over their slide layouts. Certain advanced features are only available in premium plans, which may require an upgrade for those seeking more advanced functionality.
Startups, entrepreneurs, small businesses, and individuals who want to create polished presentations quickly.
Automated design, content suggestions, collaboration tools and pitch deck-specific templates.
The free version offers limited functionalities, but it provides a sufficient opportunity to experience Slidebean’s capabilities and understand its workflow. However, to export your presentation and access advanced features, upgrading to a higher plan is necessary.
The all-access plan is available at $228 USD/year, while additional services such as startup expert consultations and pitch deck and financial model services are available for separate purchase.
11. Beautiful.ai
Source: Screenshot from Beautiful.ai
Beautiful.ai aims to simplify the process of creating visually stunning and professional-looking slides with minimal effort. One of the notable strengths of the presentation software is its collection of smart templates and design suggestions.
Their templates are intelligently designed to provide visually appealing layouts, saving users valuable time and effort in creating presentations. Unlike other types of presentation software, the platform leverages AI-powered technology to offer layout optimization, ensuring that slide elements are positioned optimally for maximum impact.
Beautiful.ai also offers time-saving features that streamline the presentation creation process. The software automatically adjusts the layout and formatting as users add or modify content, eliminating the need for manual adjustments.
As the software provides smart templates and design suggestions, customization options may be somewhat limited. Users may find that certain design elements or layout adjustments are not as flexible as they would like.
Individuals, startups and professionals who want visually impressive presentations without extensive design skills.
Smart templates, automated design suggestions, AI-powered layout optimization and easy slide customization.
Beautiful.ai provides two subscription options for users. The Pro plan is available at a monthly cost of $12 USD /month, while the Team plan is priced at $40 USD/month. Both plans are billed annually. You can also subscribe to the monthly subscription for ad hoc projects and gain access to all pro features for $45 USD/month (billed monthly).
There is a 14-day free trial period that allows users to thoroughly test and explore the features and capabilities of the tool before committing to a subscription.
Source: Screenshot from Pitch
Pitch is a modern video presentation maker that stands out with its collaborative and iterative approach to presentation creation.
One of the key strengths of Pitch lies in its collaborative features. The presentation software provides robust collaboration tools that allow team members to work together in real-time. This makes it easy for users to collaborate on presentation content, provide feedback and make revisions collectively.
Pitch boasts an extensive slide library, offering a wide range of professionally designed templates to choose from. These templates serve as a foundation for creating visually stunning presentations while providing a starting point that saves time and ensures a polished look.
The availability of diverse templates caters to different industries, topics and presentation styles, allowing users to create presentations for their needs.
Seamless integration with project management tools is another advantage of Pitch. The software integrates well with popular project management platforms, enabling users to streamline their workflow by syncing tasks, deadlines and other project-related information with their presentations.
For teams, startups and businesses that value collaboration, feedback and the ability to iterate on their presentations
Collaboration tools, version control, project management integration and template library.
Users can create unlimited presentations and enjoy the starter plan for free or upgrade to Pro for $8 USD/month, billed annually.
There you have it — the top 12 best presentation tools for the year! Whether you value simplicity, collaboration, automation, design versatility or data visualization, these presentation software examples have a solution out there for your future presentations.
Got your mind set on your to-go presentation software? Great! Now it’s time to start creating your slides and ace that presentation.
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The 11 Best Presentation Software to Use in 2024
The ability to effectively share ideas, illustrate a concept, and convince an audience is invaluable whether you’re a student or a C-level executive. These days, the presentation software you use to create presentations is just as important as your public-speaking skills.
On top of that, most companies have transitioned to remote work recently due to the current coronavirus situation, and now need to share their stories online through a virtual conference room with their distributed teams and external audience members.
That’s why we’ve come up with a list of some of the best presentation software available right now, so you can choose a compatible and innovative presentation maker that includes the best presentation tools to suit your specific needs.
Choose the best presentation software by weighing the pros and cons
You’ll see some of the most popular presentation apps: from free to paid subscription platforms, and slideshow applications to full-blown visual design presentation software with interactive features and more.
Each presentation software has its pros and cons, so it’s up to you to figure out which suits your needs best; consider the software learning curve, whether your company is made up of Mac users or Windows users and the software compatibility, if you need an enterprise account or free account, etc.
Let’s dive in!
1. Piktochart
Piktochart is a presentation software that can create a variety of design visuals, from infographics to social media stories.
An area in which Piktochart shines is crafting unique presentations.
On Piktochart, users can choose from a wide range of professionally-designed presentation templates .
These custom templates include everything from monthly marketing reports to employee onboarding templates.
This broad selection of customizable templates is especially useful for those who don’t have much design experience or know-how but need to create a visually stunning unique presentation in a pinch.
Piktochart’s presentation maker also makes it easy to edit presentations and include design elements such as lists, timelines, comparisons, graphs, and different types of charts through drag-and-drop tools.
You can even make visual maps and interactive charts to keep your audience engaged throughout your presentation.
And if your company uses a Piktochart TEAM plan , you can enjoy the platform’s ability to store brand assets , color schemes, and bespoke templates. Here, replicating company-branded visuals is a breeze.
Piktochart comes with a free version but with certain limitations. Active visuals are capped at five per month and published visuals have a Piktochart watermark.
If you want features such as team template collaboration, project sharing, and annotated commenting, you’ll have to get a Team account. To sum it up:
- Lots of professionally-designed templates
- Good for both design professionals and non-professionals
- Easy to store brand assets and bespoke templates for future presentations
- Access presentation tools from anywhere via a web browser
- Free presentation app version available
- Might take some getting used to if you’re used to PowerPoint presentations
2. Microsoft PowerPoint
Microsoft PowerPoint is often the first presentation software that comes to mind.
Once considered the “O.G.” and best presentation software available, it is still widely used and has a familiar interface—which means most users are comfortable with it.
This presentation app has everything you need to create a presentation: from animated transitions for interactive presentations to pre-installed fonts and graphic elements.
Users can also upload their own fonts, graphics, and images into their finished presentation.
Lastly, it’s available as part of the Microsoft Office software package; and you can work on your presentations via the web and mobile devices, for offline viewing as well as online.
However, PowerPoint is no longer considered the best presentation software, as it has very few templates to choose from, and these tend to fall quite flat compared to modern apps and software.
It’s easy to fall back into boring slideshow PowerPoint files if you don’t know what you’re doing.
And because most people use PowerPoint, you’re likely using the same template as the next guy.
As standalone presentation software, PowerPoint is pricey at US$139.99—and accessible through only one device unless you upgrade your package.
And while PowerPoint is primarily a slideshow application and presentation maker, its strengths are limited to this category.
So if you’re looking for the best presentation software, and bang for your buck for a robust presentation tool, you might want to look elsewhere.
- Market leader in slideshow applications to create slides
- Widely used and familiar interface for the presentation process
- Reliable and usable on most devices as well as being a desktop app
- Flat templates
- Limitations with its standalone-presentation software price
3. Google Slides
Google Slides is a slideshow application that is very similar to PowerPoint. But there are three main differences: it’s fully online (while also allowing for offline viewing), collaborative, and free.
The great thing about Google Slides (besides the fact that it’s completely free for anyone with a Google account) is that you can log on via your browser or through its official app.
You can access all Google Slides presentations from any device (mobile, tablet, and desktop), and share them with other people so you can collaborate in real-time.
Google Drive allows all your presentations to live on the cloud, accessible to all marketing and sales teams, with unparalleled ease of use.
And there’s no need to worry about disruptions as all changes are saved as they happen, as long as you have an active internet connection.
Additionally, anyone familiar with PowerPoint will be comfortable using Google’s iteration and likely be delighted by Google Drive and the slide library available.
It’s also a lot simpler, so even those new to presentation-making will find it easy to navigate.
However, some might find Google Slides too simple as it lacks the wealth of features available on PowerPoint.
These include embedding videos from sources other than YouTube, plus adding audio tracks and sound effects, limiting the ability to create unique interactive presentations.
Some users also encounter issues with downloading and exporting to different formats, including PowerPoint.
Some slides may even turn out completely different from the original version.
All in all, Google Slides is a great option for those who are looking for a free application and only need to create simple presentations.
- The free plan supports professional presentations
- Web-based and collaborative to create presentations
- Simple and familiar interface for an online presentation software
- Too simple for advanced presentation making
- Difficult to export to other formats
- Limited templates and customization options for interactive content
You could say Keynote is Apple’s version of PowerPoint. It’s also a slideshow application—but in typical Apple fashion, it comes with a sleek, minimalist interface and is considered one of the best presentation apps on the market.
There are 30 different themes to choose from, which serve as templates for those who need a quick fix. And it can do most of what PowerPoint can.
Keynote’s main perk is that it’s part of the Apple ecosystem.
That means it has built-in iCloud and Apple Watch support so users can control their presentation from their mobile device or even their wrists with just a click.
This presentation app comes pre-installed on most Mac devices. Otherwise, you can purchase it from the Apple store for just US$9.99 for mobile and US$19.99 for OS X.
The big downside is that Keynote is exclusive to Mac OS.
Non-Apple users can create, upload, and sync their own Keynote presentations through their iCloud Drive, but this presentation app is only truly helpful only for those who use multiple Apple devices.
And if you’re used to working on PowerPoint, you might find Keynote a bit confusing in the beginning, especially when editing presentations.
- Sleek, minimalist interface
- Free with most Apple devices
- No access for PC and Android devices except through iCloud
5. SlideDog
Sliding away from straightforward slideshow applications and other presentation apps, SlideDog is a web-based multimedia presentation tool that lets users combine different types of media to create and edit presentations.
This includes everything from PowerPoint decks to videos and even PDFs that can all be played side by side without any awkward transitions.
It’s also extremely easy to customize a SlideDog presentation.
You just need to upload the files into the SlideDog web browser application, and then drag and drop them according to the order in which you want them to play.
You can control your presentations and playlists from another device, and audience members can view your slideshow on their devices by clicking a link.
SlideDog has a free presentation app version that provides all of the basic features.
However, live sharing and premium support are only available with a Pro account that costs US$99 per year, and not via the free version alone.
While SlideDog is technically considered presentation software, you can’t actually create presentations on it.
You can simply stitch together different pre-made presentations in various formats into what is essentially a playlist.
Lastly, SlideDog supports only Windows devices, so Apple and Linux users can’t use it.
- Supports a lot of different media
- Provides live-sharing
- More dynamic compared to the usual slideshow presentation
- Only collates media; doesn’t create them
6. Haiku Deck
Ever come across presentations with size-eight fonts and blocks of indecipherable paragraphs on each slide?
You can avoid such an unfortunate scenario with Haiku Deck.
HaikuDeck is a web and mobile application that favors images over text.
It works by limiting the number of words users can put on each slide, and allowing them to search for images on their platform related to the slide’s main idea.
This makes it ideal for those who want to simplify their thoughts and let the images do all the talking.
Users have over 40 million royalty-free photos to choose from, plus dozens of simple slide layouts on the platform itself.
While this certainly simplifies the process of creating a visually rich presentation, it can be limiting for those who need to include more information into their slides.
It’s a great option for someone giving a TED Talk, for example.
But for others who need to pass on more facts and figures, having a built-in word limit might be too restrictive.
- Simple and easy to use
- Access to millions of royalty-free stock images
- May be too simple for some
- No Android support
- Limited features
7. Prezi Business
Among the other presentation software on this list, Prezi Business might be one of the most unique presentation tools.
Rather than offering a regular slideshow format, Prezi looks more like a 3D interactive mind map where viewers jump dynamically from one idea to the next.
You can zoom in on one “slide” and then zoom out for the next.
Prezi has over 100 templates to choose from and comes with a very simple interface and a drag-and-drop style of editing.
It’s compatible with both Mac and PC desktops as well as smartphones.
It’s also similar to a regular PowerPoint deck in that you can jump back and forth from one “slide” to the next.
And like SlideDog, you can send viewers the link to the presentation as you’re presenting.
Also, up to 10 people can work on a Prezi presentation at the same time, one of its main selling points.
This is great for collaboration, but having so many hands-on deck at once can get messy.
- Dynamic and immersive presentations
- Highly visual
- Easy to use
- May not be appropriate for all types of presentations
In a world of slides and presentations, standing out is the key. Ludus brings the flair of graphic design into the world of presentations.
At its core, Ludus is the bridge between presentation tools and design software. It enables users to infuse their slides with the kind of design elements you’d typically find in advanced design platforms.
Not only can you import assets from design giants like Adobe, but its seamless integration with tools like Unsplash and Giphy makes sourcing visuals a breeze.
It’s a fairly affordable tool for all its features compared to the other paid options in this list, as users pay 12.49 euros monthly (if billed annually).
However, while Ludus’ robust design capabilities can elevate the look of your presentation, those unfamiliar with design tools might find there’s a learning curve.
- Merges presentation creation with advanced design tools.
- Seamless integration with popular design platforms and visual databases.
- Offers a unique edge in presentation aesthetics.
- Might be a tad overwhelming for non-designers
- Can have a steeper learning curve for those used to more straightforward platforms
9. Slidebean
Crafting a compelling presentation demands not only compelling content but also a design that can captivate your audience. Enter Slidebean.
Slidebean offers an intelligent design solution, using AI to transform raw content into professionally styled presentations. This platform streamlines the design process, allowing you to focus on the message rather than fretting over aesthetics.
The basic plan is free and allows you to create a presentation. But if you want to share or download your presentations, as well as unlock the full suite of features, you’ll need to sign up for the All-Access plan priced at $199 per year.
While it provides a quick and efficient method to produce polished slides, it also offers features for sharing, collaboration, and viewer analytics, adding an edge to your presentation strategy.
However, for professionals who prioritize granular design control, the automated design might feel limiting at times.
- AI-driven design ensures visually appealing presentations.
- Features for collaboration and viewer insights.
- Efficient design process reduces time and effort.
- Might not offer the detailed design customization some users desire.
- Automated choices may not always align with specific branding or style preferences.
10. ClearSlide
Having great visuals to drive your point home can be the difference between getting a sale across the line or customers walking away. ClearSlide stands out in this area as a presentation tool for businesses laser-focused on boosting their sales and marketing game.
At its core, ClearSlide is all about leveling up business presentations. Whether you’re marketing a new product or tracking client engagement, it’s got tools that cater to every need.
Whether it’s a PowerPoint, a PDF, or something from Google Drive or Dropbox, ClearSlide makes it simple to upload and work with these files.
The unique edge? ClearSlide’s virtual meeting space pops open with just a click. It’s all about seamless, professional presentations without the hassle.
Beyond just slides, the platform dives deep into metrics and analytics, ensuring every presentation is backed by data-driven insights. And the tool is available for $35 per month, which isn’t too pricey for medium-sized businesses.
However, its complexity isn’t for everyone. For some, the variety of features might seem a tad overwhelming, and its focus on metrics might be a bit much for those just wanting a basic presentation tool.
- Seamless virtual meetings and presentations
- Integrates with popular platforms
- Offers insightful analytics for sales and marketing
- Might feel complex for some users
- Limited transition and design effects
- Mobile experience could be better
Stepping into the world of animation, Vyond, once known as GoAnimate, allows users to turn their narratives into professional animated videos. For those looking to elevate their content without diving deep into animation complexities, Vyond can be the go-to tool.
This platform is more than just drag-and-drop animations. It integrates AI capabilities with Vyond Go, which transforms text prompts into rough-cut videos.
Fancy a quick draft for your upcoming project? This AI assistant is up for the task. And if perfection is your game, take it to Vyond Studio, filled with an array of characters, templates, and backgrounds.
The Essential Plan at $25 per month is suitable for individuals on a budget. However, if you want to export videos at 1080p and above, have collaboration tools, or different export options, you’ll need to sign up for the Professional Plan at $92 per month.
As robust as the tool is, there are still some kinks to iron out. AI voiceovers might still need some tweaks, and detailed color customizations can be a bit tricky, but the tool’s strengths, especially for businesses, are undeniable.
- Hassle-free video creation for beginners to experts
- Generous library of pre-made assets
- AI-powered video and script creation with Vyond Go
- AI voiceovers might feel a bit robotic
- Some customization limitations for specific props and scenes
The best presentation software is…
…completely up to you!
When it comes to presentation software, the world is your oyster.
Each of these tools either has a free or trial version for you to check out, so you don’t have to commit just yet.
When it’s time to choose, consider the following aspects to find the right presentation software for you:
- Ease of use. Is it easy for you to understand or will it require lots of training before you can start creating presentations?
- Accessibility. Can you access your presentation software from any device or are you limited to carrying your laptop to every presentation?
- Real-time collaboration. Can multiple people work on the same project or do you have to keep downloading and emailing drafts?
- Create design tools. Can you create presentations with dynamic design elements or are you stuck with the same kind of slide each time?
- Template availability. Is this tool only accessible to a design professional or can anyone create stunning presentations through pre-designed and updated templates?
Piktochart , for example, would be a fantastic presentation software choice among the long list of PowerPoint alternatives for teams looking for a variety of eye-catching designs without requiring much technical know-how. Meanwhile, Microsoft PowerPoint might be the best presentation software for those who are just looking to play it safe.
Hopefully, this best presentation software list sheds some light on the tools at your disposal. Choose wisely!
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The best presentation software for 2024
Investing in the best presentation software helps bring your slide ideas to life easily and impactfully
Delivering a presentation in the workplace can be a stressful experience, but the best presentation software can help you get your message across more confidently. With the backing of a convincing deck filled with powerful imagery and data, anyone can deliver a top-notch presentation.
Luckily for business users, there’s no shortage of choice when it comes to tools that can help you create the best presentations possible. We’ve brought together the best presentation software in the five best offerings from Microsoft, Visme, Google, Prezi, and Slidebean.
Whether you plan to present remotely via a video conferencing system or in-person, pay $180 per year, or nothing at all – you’re likely to find the perfect software for your presentation in one of the five options detailed below. Once you’ve decided which one suits you best, you’ll just have to work on your public speaking skills.
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1. Microsoft PowerPoint
Supported operating systems: Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android
Free tier: Yes
Ever since it was first released in 1987, PowerPoint has been one of the top contenders for the title of best presentation software. With a powerful set of features including clean graphics and stock images, the ability to time and record slideshows, and even have generative AI produce text, images, or entire slides if you pay for Copilot for Microsoft 365 .
Other PowerPoint features include support for 3D objects, limited image editing, and the ability to produce detailed infographics.
As part of the Microsoft Office 365 software suite, PowerPoint is widely used in conjunction with Excel, Outlook, Word, and Access. The online version of PowerPoint allows users to collaborate on a slideshow in real-time.
Microsoft 365 business subscriptions start at $6 (or £4.90) per user per month, depending on options and add-ons. If you’re not interested in the other apps in the suite, you can also purchase PowerPoint as a standalone app for a one-time fee of $159.99 (or £149.99).
2. Google Slides
Supported operating systems: Windows, macOS, iOS, ChromeOS, and Android
Google Slides was built with collaboration at its heart and operates very similarly to Microsoft PowerPoint. As part of the Google Workspace (formerly G Suite) set of applications, Google Slides is available for free with any Google account and works seamlessly with Google Drive and Google Sheets.
You can import PPSX files from Microsoft PowerPoint directly into Google Slides and also download slides in a range of formats when finished. This allows for a good degree of flexibility and inter-compatibility when using Google Slides, perfect for businesses that rely on a mixture of Google Workspace and Office 365 or those whose customers are entirely reliant on a platform outside of Google.
Suited for the hybrid working era, users can deliver presentations on Google Meet video calls directly from Slides. A built-in Q&A feature also allows viewers to submit anonymous questions while a presenter runs through their slides.
If you choose to pay for Google Slides, you’ll be able to use more cloud storage, benefit from advanced security features, and receive more responsive tech support.
Subscriptions start at $6 (or £5) per user per month for the Business Starter plan. For more cloud storage, video meeting options, and recording there’s also the Business Standard plan at $12 (or £10) per user per month and the Business Plus plan for $18 (or £15) per user per month.
Topping the offerings is a customizable Enterprise offering, with quotes available on a per-business basis via the Google Workspace sales team. Those looking to leverage features similar to Microsoft’s Copilot in PowerPoint will be glad to know there’s also the option of using Google Gemini in Google Workspace starting at $20 per month.
As presentation software goes, Prezi might be the best for pure focus on images. Users can zoom into slides to a greater degree than in competing software and are encouraged to turn the canvas at different angles while presenting or insert seamless transitions to keep your audience engaged.
Additionally, Prezi makes it easy to import and embed a PDF file into your presentation. You may also choose to incorporate live or recorded videos into your presentations via video in video. Convenient and secure, Prezi’s “Go Live” feature lets you share your recordings with popular video conferencing tools, including Zoom, Webex, and others.
Prezi also has its own integrated AI assistant, which suggests templates based on text input and can reword text to improve its readability. The Basic plan is free and lets you create and share up to five projects but Prezi also offers flexible business tiers : Plus, Premium, and Teams.
‘Plus’ plans cost $15 (or £15) per month and enable users to create unlimited projects, infographics, import slides from Microsoft PowerPoint, export decks as PDFs, and create voice-overs for presentations. At the ‘Premium’ level, which costs $19 (or £19) per month, users get presentation analytics , advanced online training, as well as phone and chat support.
Topping the price list is the Teams plan, which starts at $19 (or £19) per month and includes admin controls, custom branding, integration with Slack , and secure single sign-on (SSO) among other benefits. Keep in mind, Prezi bills those monthly fees annually, but you can take advantage of a 14-day free trial.
Supported operating systems: Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, and Android
With Visme, you can run your presentation online or offline, collaborate with teams, connect charts to live data, and more. Visme’s intuitive drag-and-drop interface provides granular content control, making customization quick and easy. You can also add animated assets, forms, and surveys to a Visme presentation.
What’s more, Visme’s analytics feature lets you track traffic on public Visme projects. When someone views a public Visme project, the software detects and compiles the source address, number of unique visitors, and each visit’s duration. Visme then visualizes the metrics into an easy-to-understand analytical graph, accessible through the dashboard. You can also download the metrics as Excel reports.
Visme offers a free plan that allows up to five projects and includes limited templates, charts and widgets, 100 MB of storage, the ability to download JPG files, and more.
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Paid Visme plans come in three variants: Starter ($29 per month or $147 per year), Pro ($59 per month or $297 per year), and Visme for Teams (contact sales for pricing).
The Starter plan adds onto the free plan with up to 250 MB of storage, premium assets and templates, no Visme branding, PDF download, 24/7 phone and chat support, and more. The Business plan offers 3 GB of storage, multiple file download types, a branding kit, privacy controls, and more.
For large corporations, the Enterprise plan has custom pricing. This builds upon the Business plan with 25 GB of storage, single-sign-on ability, two-factor authentication, a custom subdomain, deep analytics, training and onboarding, and more.
5. Slidebean
Standing out from the conventional, Slidebean is an AI -powered, web-based multimedia presentation tool. It can design and format your slides automatically as you type. Furthermore, this tool lets you combine a wide range of media, including videos, PDF files, web pages, and Prezi and PowerPoint presentations, to name a few.
From sales decks to business proposals, Slidebean’s ready-to-use templates offer smart content suggestions to keep presentations informative yet creative. You may even choose to remotely control your SlideDog presentations from a desktop or your smartphone.
Slidebean’s free plan includes unlimited access to its AI-powered editor, pre-built templates, and media galleries. Its paid plan, All-Access, allows users to share and export presentations to PDF and PPT, track views and activity on slides, browse over 30,000 investor contacts, and access over $15,000 in discounts on startup tools.
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