Side by side
Adobe InDesign vs Blurb BookWright
Both stand on book formatting software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free trial APIMacSelf-hosted+1
Choose InDesign for desktop page layout when you need its range of publishing formats, typography controls, and Adobe app integrations. Look elsewhere if you need a free plan or a mobile app; ongoing access requires a membership plan.
Visit Adobe InDesign
Free plan APIiPhoneMac+2
BookWright provides desktop layout and image tools for a range of custom book projects, with print and PDF options. The software is free, but printing a book costs extra.
Visit Blurb BookWrightThe facts
| Adobe InDesign | Blurb BookWright | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | A free trial | Yes |
| Open source | No | No |
| Runs on | API, Mac, Self-hosted, Windows | API, iPhone, Mac, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Creative Cloud Pro for students and teachers: $19.99 a month | See the plans |
| Plans published | 6 | 9 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | adobe.com | store.blurb.com |
| On book formatting software | #3 of 11 | #1 of 11 |
Adobe InDesign: what it does well
- Creates brochures, digital magazines, eBooks, posters, and presentations.
- Precise typography controls and access to Adobe Fonts.
- Includes templates, presentation design, and a brand kit.
- Works with Photoshop, Illustrator, and Acrobat.
- Includes tools for sharing assets, feedback, and stakeholder collaboration.
What to know first
- There is no free plan.
- The full-version trial lasts seven days and converts to paid membership unless canceled.
- There is no mobile app.
- Versions 21.3 and later require at least 8GB RAM.
Blurb BookWright: what it does well
- Creates photo books, magazines, notebooks and wall art.
- Supports offline editing and PDF purchases.
- Imports photos from Lightroom, SmugMug and Dropbox.
- Books can be up to 440 pages.
What to know first
- Publishing requires an internet connection.
- A free Blurb account is required.
- Listed Windows support is limited to versions 7, 8 and 10.
Alternatives to Adobe InDesign Alternatives to Blurb BookWright The whole list