SeatPlan.io vs Canva

Generic design tool with templates — here's why SeatPlan.io is the smarter choice for your seating plans.

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The Problem

Why people leave Canva

Here’s what users often struggle with before they make the switch from Canva.

Static templates require manual text editing for every guest change

No guest list management - names are just text boxes on a canvas

No table assignment logic, RSVP tracking, or dietary requirement features

Designed for graphic design - seating charts are a template category, not a product

Exports are images or PDFs with no structured data for venues or caterers

Collaboration is on design elements, not seating-specific information

Why SeatPlan.io Wins

The SeatPlan.io advantage

Purpose-built features that make seating planning actually enjoyable.

Purpose-Built Logic

Drag guests to tables with actual seating data - not text boxes on a canvas

Guest Management

Import lists, track RSVPs, manage dietary requirements - real event data

Smart Updates

Move a guest and all related exports update automatically

Structured Exports

Table breakdowns, guest lists, catering sheets - not just visual layouts

Better Value

SeatPlan Pro costs less than Canva Pro and is built specifically for seating

Pricing

Better value, no contest

Get more features for less money. It's that simple.

Canva

Free templates, Canva Pro $12.99/mo

Limited features, uncertain value

SeatPlan.io

Free to design, £8 to save for 90 days

No subscription needed - purpose-built for seating

The verdict: SeatPlan.io vs Canva

Canva excels at graphic design - it's one of the best tools for creating invitations, social posts, and visual content. For seating charts, you're essentially using a design tool to do data management. SeatPlan.io handles guest lists, table assignments, and structured exports that Canva simply wasn't built for.

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