Noun Project vs Canva: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Noun Project 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.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Noun Project
Icons and stock photos
Best for you if:
- • You need icon libraries features specifically
- • Curated icon library
- • Community-created icons
Canva
Design platform for everyone
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.7/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need graphic design features specifically
- • Easy-to-use graphic design platform for everyone
- • Massive template library for any design need
| At a Glance |  Noun Project |  Canva |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Icon Libraries | Graphic Design |
Rating | —/100 | 87/100 |
| Feature | Noun Project | Canva |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 87 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Icon LibrariesStock Assets | Graphic DesignImage Editing |
Understanding the Differences
Both Noun Project and Canva solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Noun Project positions itself as "icons and stock photos" while Canvafocuses on "design platform for everyone". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Noun Project
Noun Project makes sense if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a free tier solution.
When to Choose Canva
Canva is worth considering if you need a flexible option with both free and paid tiers tool. Scoring 87/100, it edges ahead in our evaluation.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Noun Project lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Noun Project
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Canva is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: Canva
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Both have enterprise tiers—compare their security features.
We'd pick: Canva
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Tight budget? Start free with Noun Project, upgrade when you're ready.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Canva higher (87/100). But the community has upvoted Canva more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Canva Does Better
- Higher overall score (87/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Noun Project If
- You want to start free and scale later
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Canva (87/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Canva scores higher in our analysis, but Noun Project might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Noun Project or Canva better?
Based on our analysis, Canva scores higher with 87/100. Noun Project isfreemium while Canva is freemium. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Noun Project to Canva easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Noun Project and Canva offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Noun Project is freemium with a free tier.Canva is freemium with a free tier. Visit their websites for current trial offers.