Microsoft PowerPoint vs Canva: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Microsoft PowerPoint and Canva comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Microsoft PowerPoint
Industry-standard presentation software
Best for you if:
- • You need animation features specifically
- • Professional presentation software
- • Designer AI suggests layouts and designs
Canva
Design platform for everyone
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.7/10 vs 8.4/10)
- • You need graphic design features specifically
- • Easy-to-use graphic design platform for everyone
- • Massive template library for any design need
| At a Glance |  Microsoft PowerPoint |  Canva |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Animation | Graphic Design |
Rating | 84/100 | 87/100 |
| Feature | Microsoft PowerPoint | Canva |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 87 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | AnimationPresentation Design | Graphic DesignImage Editing |
How Microsoft PowerPoint and Canva Compare
Microsoft PowerPoint
Industry-standard presentation software
Free tier available · 84/100 score
Canva
Design platform for everyone
Free tier available · 87/100 score
Microsoft PowerPoint is a animation tool. Canva is in graphic design.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Microsoft PowerPoint
Want the highest-rated option?
Microsoft PowerPoint: 84/100. Canva: 87/100.
Go with: Canva
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Canva
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Microsoft PowerPoint is a animation tool. Canva is in graphic design. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Canva scores higher: 87/100 vs 84/100.
Key Takeaways
Canva
- Higher score: 87/100 vs 84
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Microsoft PowerPoint
- Better fit for animation
The Bottom Line
Canva (87/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Microsoft PowerPoint or Canva better?
Canva scores 87/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Microsoft PowerPoint and Canva used for?
Microsoft PowerPoint: Industry-standard presentation software. Canva: Design platform for everyone.
What does Microsoft PowerPoint cost vs Canva?
Microsoft PowerPoint is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Canva is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.