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#13

Xara Page & Layout Designer is ranked #13 in the Desktop Publishing Software product directory based on the latest available data collected by SelectHub. Compare the leaders with our In-Depth Report.

Xara Page & Layout Designer Pricing

Based on our most recent analysis, Xara Page & Layout Designer pricing starts at $12 (Monthly, Freemium).

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Starting From
$12
Pricing Model
Monthly, Freemium
Free Trial
Yes, Request for Free

Training Resources

Xara Page & Layout Designer is supported with the following types of training:

Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars

Support

The following support services are available for Xara Page & Layout Designer:

Email
Phone
Chat
FAQ
Forum
Help Desk
Knowledge Base
Tickets
Training
24/7 Live Support

Xara Page & Layout Designer Benefits and Insights

Why use Xara Page & Layout Designer?

Key differentiators & advantages of Xara Page & Layout Designer

  • Efficient Workflow: Xara Page & Layout Designer streamlines the design process by integrating multiple tools into a single platform, reducing the need to switch between different software applications.
  • Cost-Effective Solution: By combining graphic design, photo editing, and desktop publishing capabilities, it eliminates the need for multiple subscriptions, offering a comprehensive solution at a lower cost.
  • Professional Quality Output: The software provides high-resolution output options, ensuring that printed materials such as brochures and flyers maintain a professional appearance.
  • Intuitive User Interface: Its user-friendly interface allows both beginners and experienced designers to navigate and utilize the software efficiently, minimizing the learning curve.
  • Customizable Templates: A wide range of customizable templates helps users quickly create polished documents, saving time on design and layout tasks.
  • Seamless Integration: Xara Page & Layout Designer supports various file formats, allowing for easy import and export of documents, which facilitates collaboration with clients and colleagues.
  • Precision Design Tools: Advanced design tools enable precise control over elements such as text, images, and shapes, ensuring that every detail aligns with the intended design vision.
  • Time-Saving Features: Features like automatic text flow and smart guides help streamline the design process, allowing users to focus on creativity rather than manual adjustments.
  • Versatile Output Options: The software supports multiple output formats, including PDF and HTML, making it suitable for both print and digital publishing needs.
  • Robust Support and Resources: Access to a comprehensive library of tutorials and a responsive support team ensures users can quickly resolve any issues and continue working efficiently.
  • Scalable for Various Projects: Whether designing a simple flyer or a complex multi-page document, the software scales to meet the demands of different project sizes and complexities.
  • Enhanced Collaboration: Cloud-based features allow for easy sharing and collaboration on projects, enabling teams to work together seamlessly regardless of location.
  • Regular Updates: Frequent software updates ensure that users have access to the latest tools and features, keeping their design capabilities current and competitive.
  • Environmentally Friendly: By facilitating digital document creation and distribution, the software supports sustainable practices by reducing the need for physical printing.
  • Comprehensive Design Capabilities: The integration of vector graphics, photo editing, and page layout tools provides a holistic approach to design, catering to diverse creative needs.

Industry Expertise

Xara Page & Layout Designer is particularly well-suited for beginners and occasional users who need an intuitive and cost-effective solution for creating documents like brochures, coupons, and marketing materials. It offers a simple interface and a good set of basic functions for layout and design work, but its feature set is limited compared to more specialized DTP programs.

Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

Based on an aggregate of Xara Page & Layout Designer reviews taken from the sources above, the following pros & cons have been curated by a SelectHub Market Analyst.

Pros

  • Intuitive Interface: Xara Page & Layout Designer is praised for its user-friendly design, making it easy for users to create professional-looking documents even without prior experience with similar software.
  • Cost-Effective: The software is considered a budget-friendly option compared to more expensive professional DTP software, making it attractive to cost-conscious businesses.
  • Drag and Drop Functionality: Users appreciate the software's drag-and-drop feature, which simplifies the design process and allows for quick and efficient placement of elements.

Cons

  • Limited Features: While user-friendly, it may lack the advanced typography controls, color management tools, or industry-standard printing presets needed for professional-grade design work.
  • Template Selection: The program offers pre-designed templates to help users get started, but the variety and quality may not be as extensive as other DTP software, potentially limiting design choices.
  • Windows Only: The software is only compatible with Windows operating systems, which might be a dealbreaker for businesses using Mac or Linux systems, hindering collaboration and workflow.

Researcher's Summary:

Is Xara Page & Layout Designer a page-turner in the world of desktop publishing, or does it leave users feeling like they're stuck in a layout rut? User reviews from the past year paint a picture of a program that's a double-edged sword. On the one hand, many appreciate its user-friendly interface, making it a good jumping-off point for beginners who are just dipping their toes into the design pool. For instance, reviewers on G2.com frequently praise its intuitive drag-and-drop functionality, which simplifies the process of adding and arranging design elements. They also highlight its affordability compared to industry heavyweights like Adobe InDesign, making it a budget-friendly option for startups or freelancers watching their bottom line.

However, this affordability comes at a cost, as some users find the template library to be somewhat limited and crave more advanced customization options to make their designs truly stand out. This suggests that Xara Page & Layout Designer might not be robust enough for seasoned designers or those working on complex projects that demand a high degree of creative control. While it's great for whipping up a quick flyer or brochure, it might not be the best tool for crafting a visually stunning magazine spread or an intricate infographic.

In essence, Xara Page & Layout Designer is like a reliable but basic bicycle: it's perfect for casual riders who prioritize ease of use and affordability, but serious cyclists looking for speed and advanced features might find it lacking. It's best suited for individuals or small businesses needing to create straightforward marketing materials without breaking the bank or wrestling with a steep learning curve.

Key Features

Notable Xara Page & Layout Designer features include:

  • Intuitive Interface: The software offers a user-friendly interface that simplifies the design process, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced designers.
  • Advanced Typography Tools: Provides extensive font and text manipulation options, including kerning, tracking, and leading adjustments for precise text layout.
  • Vector Graphics Support: Allows for the creation and editing of scalable vector graphics, ensuring high-quality output for print and digital media.
  • Integrated Photo Editing: Includes built-in photo editing tools, enabling users to enhance images directly within the application without needing external software.
  • Template Library: Offers a wide range of customizable templates for various document types, such as brochures, flyers, and business cards, to jumpstart the design process.
  • Layer Management: Features comprehensive layer management tools that allow for complex design compositions and easy organization of design elements.
  • PDF Export Options: Supports exporting documents as PDF files with customizable settings, ensuring compatibility with professional printing standards.
  • Color Management: Provides advanced color management tools, including support for CMYK and Pantone color systems, to ensure accurate color reproduction.
  • 3D Extrusion Tool: Enables the creation of 3D text and shapes, adding depth and dimension to designs with ease.
  • SmartShapes Technology: Offers a collection of customizable SmartShapes that can be easily adjusted and styled to fit any design requirement.
  • Text Flow Around Objects: Allows text to seamlessly wrap around images and other design elements, enhancing the visual appeal of layouts.
  • Multi-Page Document Support: Facilitates the creation of multi-page documents, such as magazines and reports, with tools for consistent styling and layout across pages.
  • Customizable Grids and Guides: Provides flexible grid and guide options to assist in precise alignment and positioning of design elements.
  • Real-Time Collaboration: Supports collaborative work by allowing multiple users to edit and review documents simultaneously, streamlining the design process.
  • Cloud Integration: Offers integration with cloud services for easy access to files and resources from anywhere, enhancing workflow efficiency.
  • Responsive Design Features: Includes tools for creating responsive layouts that adapt to different screen sizes, ideal for digital publications.
  • Extensive File Format Support: Compatible with a wide range of file formats, including SVG, PDF, and EPS, ensuring flexibility in importing and exporting designs.
  • Customizable Workspaces: Allows users to tailor the workspace to their preferences, optimizing the design environment for individual workflows.
  • Interactive Document Features: Supports the creation of interactive elements, such as hyperlinks and buttons, for engaging digital documents.
  • Regular Updates: Receives frequent updates that introduce new features and improvements, keeping the software current with industry standards.