Affinity vs Megal Publisher

Affinity is a desktop creative app combining vector design, pixel editing and page layout in one application. Individuals can use its Pixel, Vector and Layout tools without payment or tool restrictions, and the free plan includes export tools and Canva integration. A free Canva account is required to download and use Affinity; Canva premium is needed for Canva AI tools inside the app. It runs on Windows and macOS and is optimized for Apple silicon and Intel on macOS. Imported PSD, AI, IDML and DWG files can retain their layers and structure. Finished assets can be exported to Canva for live collaboration and campaigns, while designs can be imported into Cavalry for animation. After download and license activation, Affinity can be used offline. Help, lessons, stock libraries, Canva integrations and AI tools require an internet connection. The app can be installed on as many devices as desired, and the site says it will receive free updates. An iPad version is being built, with no release date announced.

Megal Publisher is a browser-based desktop-publishing app for creating page layouts online and saving editable projects in.mpub format. Its editor supports multiple pages, text, images, shapes, tables, master pages, text wrapping and precise object arrangement. Supported Microsoft Publisher.pub files can be rebuilt as editable Megal objects, though fonts and complex effects may need correction. It also imports macro-free Word, Excel and PowerPoint files, with a listed maximum file size of 25 MB. The app advertises more than 9,000 templates. Mail Merge accepts Excel, CSV or TSV recipient lists; the maker says recipient values remain in the browser session rather than being uploaded or embedded in the MPUB. Output options include print, PDF, SVG and images in PNG, JPEG, WebP, TIFF, BMP or GIF. Free users can create and edit publications, open supported.pub files and save.mpub projects, but printing, PDF creation, export and download require Professional. Professional costs $5.99 a month or $59.99 a year. The maker says publication files are stored locally unless account autosave is used.