When looking for the best landscape design software on the market, we awarded extra points to programs that offer customers a free demo or trial period to test out the features before they commit. Though not all software fits the bill, we tried to highlight options that are compatible with more than one operating system, making them accessible to a wider audience. If you’re ready to plan out your dream yard, here are the programs we recommend. Free Trial? Yes Device Compatibility: Mac, Windows, iOS, & Android The program’s shareable link feature allows other people to view your project as you work on it, and they can even contribute to the design if they have their own SmartDraw account. The software also outranks its competitors in the compatibility category: Homeowners can work on their creations across Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android devices. Plus, SmartDraw’s monthly fee comes out to about $10 per month for a single user, which is on the cheaper side for paid plans. Free Trial? Yes Device Compatibility: Mac & Windows There are three different versions to choose from: Suite ($129), Architectural ($249), and Professional ($595). Each program comes with tools that’ll help you create a backyard paradise, but most homeowners should be satisfied with the basic functionality of Home Designer Suite. The software also has interior design capabilities, making it a great investment if you plan to remodel other parts of your home down the line. Free Trial? No, but there is a free version Device Compatibility: iOS Though iScape is only available on iOS, the functionality across these devices is solid. The program has a strong 4.6 stars out of 5 on the App Store, and the free version gives you an opportunity to play around with the tools before you upgrade to the paid plan. In order to create anything beyond a basic design, users must pay for the Pro package, which costs about $30 a month. Free Trial? Yes Device Compatibility: Windows Even if you’re not doing a complete landscape overhaul, the software lets you work in stages and calculate the material costs as you go. Though VizTerra is expensive—it’s priced at $97 per month, plus you’re required to pay a one-time setup fee of $95—you won’t find a more customizable exterior design program. Prospective users can always test out the tools by signing up for a free trial. However, it’s important to note that you must have a Windows operating system to use VizTerra. Free Trial? No Device Compatibility: Windows, iPad & Android tablets If you’re having trouble editing images, PRO Landscape will manipulate them for you at no extra cost. There’s also a library of more than 18,000 objects that can be added to your designs, including plants—which are labeled with climate requirements. Though there isn’t a free trial for this software, you can sign up for a live demo and purchases come with a 60-day money-back guarantee. SmartDraw is streamlined enough for beginners yet sophisticated enough to appeal to true experts. Multiple users can easily collaborate on projects through the use of shared folders, and the program is compatible with most operating systems. It’s also one of the more affordable options on the market.
UsabilityAvailable featuresPriceDevice compatibilityCustomer satisfactionAccess to resourcesFree trial option
Our research team also factored in whether anyone buying the software could easily learn how to use the program without prior experience. We ultimately picked SmartDraw as our best overall software because it’s user friendly, compatible with both mobile and desktop, and relatively affordable.
