Figma sits in the “Content and publishing” part of a list of 58 tools I keep for building software, publishing content and selling products. Design and screens, including showing a client something before you build. This page is the short, honest version: Free tier, the moment it earns its place, what to check before you pay, and what else on the list would do the job.
The facts
| What it does | Design and screens, including showing a client something before you build. |
|---|---|
| When you need it | Client work where the look has to be approved up front. |
| Price | Free tier |
| Free tier | Yes |
| Category | Content and publishing |
| Covered in | |
| In my stack | Yes — I use this one |
Figma
Free tier · Client work where the look has to be approved up front.
No affiliate link here — this one pays me nothing. It is on the list anyway.
Before you buy
Who should skip it
Skip it if nobody has to approve a design before you build.
What to check before you pay
Check whether the free tier covers the number of files and collaborators you need.
Alternatives to Figma on this list
Other tools for thumbnails, covers and screens.
| Tool | What it does | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Canva | Thumbnails, covers and anything that has to look good quickly. | Free tier |
Questions people ask
What is Figma?
Design and screens, including showing a client something before you build. It sits in the “Content and publishing” part of the stack: Only relevant once you actually publish. Buy nothing here before you have posted three things.
What does Figma cost?
Free tier. There is a free tier, so you can try it before paying. Prices change — this list was last checked on 11 September 2026, and the tool's own pricing page is the source of truth.
When do you need Figma?
Client work where the look has to be approved up front.
What are the alternatives to Figma?
On this list: Canva. Same job, different trade-offs — the table above says what each one costs and what it is for.
Do you use Figma yourself?
Yes. It is part of the stack I build and publish with.
The Short Version
Every conclusion from all eight playbooks — how these tools turn into income. Free.