Side by side
Adobe InDesign vs PageStream
Both stand on desktop publishing 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 trial LinuxMacWindows
Choose PageStream if you need desktop page layout across its listed design range, with drawing tools, PDF export, and master pages. Look elsewhere if you need to create bitmap pictures or EPS illustrations within the program rather than importing them from elsewhere.
Visit PageStreamThe facts
| Adobe InDesign | PageStream | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | A free trial | A free trial |
| Open source | No | Not published |
| Runs on | API, Mac, Self-hosted, Windows | Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Creative Cloud Pro for students and teachers: $19.99 a month | PageStream5.1: $99.95, paid once |
| Plans published | 6 | 2 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | adobe.com | pagestream.org |
| On desktop publishing software | #14 of 30 | #18 of 30 |
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.
PageStream: what it does well
- Layouts combine text, images, and drawings interactively.
- Shape and path tools include polygons and sketches.
- Imports pictures, drawings, and EPS illustrations from named graphics applications.
- Supports PDF export, master pages, and color management.
- Professional edition can place a specified PDF page as a graphic.
What to know first
- Cannot create bitmap pictures or EPS illustrations internally.
- Standard edition costs $99.95, paid once.
- Professional edition costs $149.95, paid once.
Alternatives to Adobe InDesign Alternatives to PageStream The whole list