Canva vs Procreate (2025): Templates, Illustration, Exports & Best Pick
Compare Canva and Procreate for book covers and illustration. See templates vs hand-drawn control, mockups, exports, pricing snapshots, and who each is for—plus quick links to alternatives.
Highlights
Quick Verdict
Choose Canva for fast, template-driven covers and promos with built-in mockups. Choose Procreate if you want hand-drawn illustration and custom art on iPad with Apple Pencil.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Capability | Canva | Procreate |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | Web & apps (cross-platform) | iPad app (Apple Pencil) |
| Primary focus | Graphic design with templates | Illustration & painting |
| Covers | Quick designs; set exact KDP size | Manual design; full artistic control |
| Mockups | Smartmockups integration | External mockup workflow |
| Video | Built-in video editor + stock | Animation Assist (frame/video) |
| Exports | PNG/JPG/PDF/MP4; share links | PSD, PDF, PNG (transparent), JPEG, TIFF |
| Learning curve | Very low | Low–moderate (drawing skills) |
| Best for | DIY covers, ads, social assets | Custom painted covers/interior art |
Pricing Snapshot
Different models: Canva has a free plan + Pro tiers; Procreate is a one-time App Store purchase. Check current details on each listing:
Prices change—verify on each tool page.
Who Each Is For
✅ Choose Canva if you want…
- Fast template workflows for covers and promos.
- Built-in mockups and video editor for ads.
- Team collaboration and brand kits.
✅ Choose Procreate if you want…
- Hand-drawn illustration with Apple Pencil feel.
- CMYK/RGB canvases for print-accurate art.
- Layered exports (PSD/TIFF) for InDesign/Canva handoff.
FAQ
Which is better for custom illustration?
Procreate. It’s built for drawing/painting with Apple Pencil and offers layered exports for pro workflows.
Which is faster for simple covers and promos?
Canva. Use templates, Smartmockups, and the video editor to ship assets quickly.