Free Slideshow Makers for PC, Online, Mobile
Nearly all modern businessmen, students, and managers have faced the problem of how to show and deliver information to the audience in the most attractive way.
For this purpose, software developers have created paid and free slideshow makers: online and offline services and apps to create video presentations from images.
In this article, we reviewed top-notch free desktop slideshow software and online services.
How we picked the presentation software
Our team has conducted an in-depth analysis of the best free slideshow makers that are currently accessible in the market.
We have taken into account all the relevant factors that are important for a good slideshow app, including:
- The user interface;
- Available templates and themes;
- Multimedia support;
- Transitions and special effects.
Our analysis has also considered the flexibility of each slideshow creator to customize the slideshows according to the user's preferences and requirements.
Using these criteria, we've compiled a list of noteworthy slides makers categorized into three groups: desktop, online, and mobile options.
Best free slideshow makers for PC: summary table
| Application | Customization options | OS | Our rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Icecream Slideshow Maker |
Add transitions, slides, insert text, shuffle images, overlay music.
|
Windows
|
5.0 |
| ThunderSoft |
Insert videos, edit images.
|
Windows
|
4.8 |
| NCH PhotoStage |
Change brightness, add a narration, use various transitions and effects.
|
Windows
macOS
Android
iOS
|
4.5 |
| Microsoft PowerPoint |
Huge template collection.
|
Windows
macOS
|
4.5 |
| Focusky |
Apply interactive elements and animate slides.
|
Windows
|
4.4 |
| Magix Photostory |
Create animated maps, make small photo videos.
|
Windows
|
4.3 |
| DaVinci Resolve |
Apply color correction, motion graphics and edit audio.
|
Windows
macOS
Linux
|
4.3 |
| Bolide Slideshow Creator |
Add transition effects.
|
Windows
|
4.0 |
| PowerDirector |
Change video speed, customize your slideshow with titles.
|
Windows
macOS
Android
iOS
|
4.0 |
| Aiseesoft |
Animate images and adjust contrast and saturation.
|
Windows
|
3.9 |
| LibreOffice Impress |
Transition effects (like fade, dissolve) and animations (entrance, emphasis, exit).
|
Windows
macOS
Linux
|
3.8 |
1. Icecream Slideshow Maker
A great free slideshow maker for Windows with all the most popular features and options. It enables the creation of slideshow projects in diverse formats and resolutions, offering versatility for uploading and broadcasting clips across various platforms and monitors.
You can use 2K and 4K resolutions for the slideshow presentation of high-definition objects. Try WEBM format for displaying on devices with the Android operating system from Google, MP4, and AVI for videos viewed on a TV.
You can add transitions between slides, insert text and blank slides, shuffle images, and more. All that's needed for fast and effective slideshow creation.
Pros:
- Create a presentation with music and add playlists;
- Resume slideshows from the History panel;
- Slideshow maker app with a simple and intuitive interface;
- Does not require high PC performance;
- Upload video presentations directly to YouTube, Google Drive, or Dropbox.
2. ThunderSoft Free Slideshow Maker
With ThunderSoft, you can edit not only the slides (pictures, documents, and so on) but also insert video files into the projects. So it is a rather convenient and functional free slideshow creator.
In addition, the functionality of the software allows to add sound and additional spectacular transitions. It is compatible with Windows OS, starting with the XP version.
Pros:
- Make a slideshow using lots of functions;
- Animation can be added;
- Little CPU and GPU load;
- Exports the file in most modern formats (MP4, AVI, MOV etc.);
- Direct uploading to the hosting website.
Cons:
- Steep learning curve;
- Software for slideshow with an outdated design.
3. NCH PhotoStage
The program allows users to create multimedia slideshows by combining photos, videos, music, and narration. Users can arrange and customize the elements to produce visually appealing presentations.
The NCH PhotoStage typically features a user-friendly interface with drag-and-drop functionality, making it accessible to users with varying levels of technical expertise.
The slideshow creator also has the possibility of adding background music and audio narration. It includes a comprehensive help system with tutorials and tips to ensure a fast start.
Pros:
- Comprises many customization instruments;
- Supports multiple input and output video formats;
- Offers built-in themes and transitions;
- Slideshow program has audio editing features;
- Provides various export options.
Cons:
- Slow response;
- No compatibility with 4K videos or higher resolutions.
4. Microsoft PowerPoint
A powerful and free slideshow maker. A great advantage is the huge number of templates that you can use to craft compelling and visually stunning slideshows.
Tailored for both personal and professional use, the app seamlessly combines intuitive design with a robust set of features, allowing users to transform ideas into captivating presentations.
You will, however, need a Microsoft account to work with this slideshow software or with the online version of PowerPoint. In addition to that, PowerPoint allows you to mount only 3 presentations per month.
Pros:
- Variety of presets;
- Microsoft 365 service supports Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS;
- Useful help system.
Cons:
- Trial version has a standard set of features, advanced ones are not free;
- Limited amount of presentations in the free version;
- Slideshow program requires a Microsoft account.
5. Focusky Presentation Maker
This is a free and effective slides maker for constructing remarkable presentations. You can effortlessly craft eye-catching slideshows with media, such as videos, photos, music.
Users have precise control over the path of their presentations with the non-linear feature. It enables a more interactive and engaging storytelling experience.
This slideshow maker also allows you to animate your content and create interactive elements with transitions. Focusky also offers an extensive library of image samples to help you get started quickly. Moreover, you can alter the appearance of your presentation by adding text, adjusting font sizes, colors, animations.
Pros:
- Intuitive interface with a drag-and-drop feature;
- Facilitates real-time collaboration;
- Rich variety of export formats.
Cons:
- Although offline presenting is supported, certain features may require an internet connection;
- While the software offers unique features, there may be a learning curve for users who are accustomed to more traditional presentation tools.
6. Magix Photostory
Powerful slideshow software with a free trial period for professional and amateur use. Users can seamlessly integrate a variety of multimedia elements into their slideshows. This includes not only images but also video clips, music, and voiceovers. If you are a beginner, Magix Photostory has ready templates and style solutions.
For those looking for a quick and hassle-free creation process, Magix Photostory often includes an Instant Slideshow Wizard. This feature automates the slideshow creation based on user preferences.
Pros:
- Make a slideshow with a wide range of individual settings;
- Compatibility with high-resolution video files;
- Instant file sharing and DVD burning;
- Built-in store with a set of extra tools;
- Professional special effects such as distortion and 3D simulations;
- Presentation generator does not need high PC or laptop performance.
Cons:
- Slideshow app with a steep learning curve;
- In the free version, you can use only basic tools.
7. DaVinci Resolve
DaVinci Resolve is a formidable slideshow program for creating captivating videos. It features advanced editing tools, such as custom transitions, color correction, and more.
The slideshow maker includes powerful customization options, like choosing the resolution and aspect ratio of your slideshows. Additionally, it offers built-in audio support, allowing you to incorporate music or voice-overs into your creations.
Pros:
- Comes with numerous transition, text, and animation effects;
- Has an integrated audio post-production features;
- Offers industry-leading color correction and grading capabilities.
Cons:
- Requires purchase of the Pro version for full feature access;
- Creating a slideshow may be sluggish at times due to high resource usage;
- Some features can be confusing for beginners.
8. Bolide Slideshow Creator
Bolide is a slideshow app that offers an intuitive set of instruments, and the files' processing requires no high-powered PC. The software allows users to import a variety of image formats, enabling the creation of slideshows with a mix of photos and graphics.
There is also a simple, yet functional image editor that allows you to crop and rotate the picture, and add inscriptions. Create a presentation and save the file in various formats (AVI, MKV, FLV, MP4, etc.).
Pros:
- High performance even on weak computers;
- Presentation creator suitable for beginners;
- User-friendly interface.
Cons:
- Free slideshow maker has a limited functionality;
- No audio editor.
9. PowerDirector
PowerDirector Slideshow Maker is a user-friendly and feature-rich tool designed to transform your photos into dynamic and engaging presentations.
With a simple drag-and-drop feature, you can quickly customize videos with photos, videos, titles, and transitions. You can even add music from the library or your own collection.
Plus, you make a slideshow and upload it directly to platforms such as YouTube and Facebook.
Pros:
- Create a slideshow and adjust themes, add text, transitions, and music;
- Possibility to incorporate effects, such as motion graphics and animated titles;
- Preloaded templates and stock media available.
Cons:
- Presentation generator is costly (if you need the full version with all features);
- No support for 4K video export;
- May lack speed on low-spec systems.
10. Aiseesoft
The slideshow software accepts the inclusion of music, text, photos, videos, and transitions to the slideshows. It also supports panoramic images and allows users to record their own narration for the slides.
The slides maker supports various export options, including MP4, MOV, AVI, GIF, and more. Aiseesoft provides a range of customization such as adjusting the size of the slideshow or adding watermarks directly in the app.
The presentation maker offers a selection of pre-designed templates, providing users with a starting point for creating visually appealing slideshows. These templates can cater to different themes and styles.
Pros:
- Users can add titles, captions, and text overlays to slides;
- Ability to animate images with transitions;
- Adjustment of visual effects such as contrast, saturation, brightness, hue, and temperature.
Cons:
- To access green screen effects, you need to upgrade to the premium version of the slide creator.
- Some users have reported crashes or freezes while using the program.
11. LibreOffice Impress
This slideshow app is part of the LibreOffice productivity suite, which is a free and open-source alternative to commercial office sets like Microsoft Office.
Impress allows users to create professional slideshows with a variety of layouts, backgrounds, and styles. You can easily add text, bullet points, images, shapes, charts, tables, and multimedia elements to slides.
The master slides feature allows users to define consistent formatting and layout elements across multiple pages. This is useful for maintaining a uniform look throughout your presentation.
Pros:
- Being open-source, the software allows users to view and modify its source code;
- Supports a variety of file formats, including PPTX, ODP, PDF, and more.
Cons:
- Complex presentations with intricate layouts, animations, or macros may not always render perfectly.
Best free online slideshow makers: summary table
| Application | Customization options | Our rating |
|---|---|---|
| Prezi |
Bunch of ready-made templates.
|
4.8 |
| Fastreel Slideshow Maker |
Use built-in music collection.
|
4.7 |
| Canva |
Add charts, use pre-made templates, insert stock pictures.
|
4.6 |
| Renderforest Slideshow Maker |
Choose from an assortment of themed templates.
|
4.5 |
| Kapwing |
Enhance your slides with music, transitions, captions, and text.
|
4.2 |
| Google Slides |
Create video from images.
|
4.0 |
| PixTeller |
Check the bank of free templates.
|
3.8 |
| Adobe Express |
Change background colors and work on transitions.
|
3.5 |
1. Prezi
Prezi is a cloud-based presentation software that offers a unique and dynamic approach to creating visual presentations. Multiple templates are available, providing the option to recycle your previously crafted slideshow presentations. Additionally, there is a seamless integration feature for your projects in Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Webex.
Pros:
- Free slideshow maker with no limits on the number of slides;
- Slideshow website with ready-made templates.
Cons:
- Free version has limited functionality;
- Presentations are uploaded to the Prezi platform, not maintaining the privacy of your documents.
2. Fastreel Slideshow Maker
Fastreel Slideshow Maker is a free online tool designed by Movavi. It facilitates the creation of beautiful professional slideshows in minutes.
The presentation generator comes with an array of automated features, allowing users to add various elements without hassle. It furnishes a broad array of themes and styles to select from.
Pros:
- Multi-functional free slideshow maker;
- Pre-made templates and split-screen grids;
- Results are deleted in 24 hours.
Cons:
- Supports certain types of media files, such as JPG or MP4;
- Slideshow app puts watermark on a resulting video;
- Limited customization themes.
3. Canva
Canva is an online platform for creating video presentations. This slideshow creator is suitable for bloggers, students, and managers to create a beautiful video in a short time.
There's a free version of slideshow maker, but for professional use you will need to purchase a PRO account. The premium plans unlock additional features and assets as well as access to a the library of business templates, posters, and others.
Pros:
- Large selection of additional instruments. These are titles, animated page transitions, image filters;
- Quick export to web-hosting sites;
- Compatibility with most manufacturers of microphones and camcorders;
- Slideshow web app works with major formats.
Cons:
- Some users may have problems with absence of popular fonts;
- Free version has only the standard toolkit;
- No ability to resize the picture.
4. Renderforest Slideshow Maker
Renderforest Slideshow Maker turns images and clips into amazing slideshows in minutes. It's incredibly user-friendly and comes equipped with fantastic features. In no time, you can effortlessly transform your images into impressive slideshows, complete with music, special effects, and imaginative transitions.
The slides maker supports collaborative editing, enabling multiple users to work on a slideshow simultaneously. This is particularly beneficial for teams working on projects or presentations.
Pros:
- Provides a cloud storage integration;
- Users can integrate their logos into the slideshows;
- Presentation maker with high-quality output.
Cons:
- More focused on simplicity, lacking some of the intricate capabilities of professional design software;
- Adds a watermark by default;
- Free plans have limitations on export resolution and font editing.
5. Kapwing
Kapwing's slideshow producer is a straightforward online app for creating eye-catching slides costless. It's great for making presentations, social media posts, and more due to the aspect ratio choice function.
You can add music, transitions, captions, and text to your slides with just a few clicks. The platform includes a meme generator tool, allowing users to quickly create memes by adding text, images, and overlays to existing media or templates.
Pros:
- Lots of customization options;
- Create slideshow online on any device;
- Outputs in HD quality.
Cons:
- Restricted video length (30 minutes);
- No direct sharing to social platforms.
6. Google Slides
Google Slides is a cost-free, web-based presentation tool akin to PowerPoint, offering seamless online slide creation and collaboration. Users can leverage this service with the convenience of their Google account, enabling collaborative editing and accessibility from any device with internet connectivity.
The slides maker has an intuitive interface and allows you to quickly create a fairly good video from photos. However, it lacks some advanced features compared to other presentation makers from our list.
Pros:
- Google Drive integration;
- Does not require high device performance.
Cons:
- The slideshow maker has small set of tools.
7. PixTeller
PixTeller is a versatile slideshow online platform that empowers users to create stunning visuals with ease. Beyond offering a variety of slide formats such as single images, fullscreen slideshows, split images, and multiple columns, the app provides an extensive library of customizable templates, graphics, and text options.
Users can seamlessly add music or voiceovers to their presentations. Users can easily upload their slideshows on social network website or share their work with the online PixTeller community.
Pros:
- Bank of free pictures and templates built-in into this slideshow creator;
- MP4, GIF, and other output formats.
Cons:
- Privacy mode is available only in the PRO version.
8. Adobe Express
Adobe Express has an easy-to-use interface that enables the creation of beautiful slides along with customizing options like text, photos, and videos.
With its simple drag-and-drop feature, you can create unique slideshows in a few moves. You can customize each slide with transitions, background colors, and motion effects.
Pros:
- Has a collaboration mode;
- The slideshow website is a part of Adobe ecosystem;
- Simple one-click layouts.
Cons:
- Online slideshow maker not compatible with mobile devices.
Mobile slideshow creators: summary table
| Application | Customization options | OS | Our rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Movavi Clips |
Edit images directly on your slides.
|
Android
iOS
|
4.8 |
| Keynote |
Collaborate on creating projects.
|
iOS
|
4.7 |
| Pixgram |
Add text captions, music and transitions.
|
Android
|
4.6 |
| MoShow |
Record voiceovers to improve your slideshow.
|
Android
iOS
|
4.5 |
| Photos |
Theme, background music, and playback speed.
|
iOS
|
4.3 |
1. Movavi Clips
Movavi Clips has a library of built-in effects and transitions, as well as music tracks to make a perfect slideshow. You can choose from a collection of stylish templates or start with a blank slide and let your creativity flow.
The user-friendly interface allows you to quickly edit images while creating a presentation with various tools such as cropping, resizing, rotating, and color correction. You may as well insert captions and subtitles to your slideshows.
Pros:
- Intuitive editing tools make it easy to create slideshows in minutes;
- Fun stock music tracks let you add atmosphere to your creations;
- Support for 4K video resolution gives you high-quality results.
Cons:
- The free version doesn't include all features, such as the ability to export in 4K resolution;
- Some features of slideshow app may be too complicated for new users;
- Limited support for GIFs;
- Poor customer service response time can be frustrating.
2. Keynote
Keynote is a presentation maker for creating slides on devices running Apple operating systems: iOS, and macOS. It has a large library of preloaded effects and transitions.
Users have the capability to incorporate charts and diagrams into their creations. Furthermore, this slide creator facilitates collaborative work on projects, fostering teamwork and providing additional functionalities for an enriched experience.
Pros:
- Apple Pencil support;
- Collaborate with colleagues while you make a slideshow.
Cons:
- Works exclusively on macOS;
- Presentation creator has only basic toolkit.
3. Pixgram
Pixgram is an innovative slideshow maker that gives users a simple way to transform photos and videos into amazing slideshows.
It offers a range of features to make your slideshows look amazing, including text captions, music, transitions, and more. You'll be able to upload files from your device or from popular services such as Instagram, Facebook, Flickr, Dropbox, Google Drive, and more.
Pros:
- Simple and intuitive. It only takes a few minutes to begin;
- Slideshow app includes the option to share created slideshows directly on social media platforms.
Cons:
- While the app is free to download, there might be in-app purchases for additional features;
- Ads occasionally appear while creating slideshows, which can be annoying at times.
4. MoShow
MoShow is a mobile app designed for creating dynamic and visually engaging photo and video slideshows. It app includes a variety of pre-designed styles and templates, offering users creative options to personalize their slideshows with different themes and effects.
Users have the ability to customize various elements of their slideshows, such as choosing transition effects, adjusting the duration of each slide, and adding text overlays.
Pros:
- With numerous customization options, users can add music, voiceovers, animations, and more to their slideshows.
Cons:
- Not all media formats are supported in the slideshow app.
5. Photos
Photos, a default app on all iOS devices, stands out as a user-friendly tool for creating slideshows.
It offers a variety of pre-set themes that add visual flair to slideshows. Each theme comes with its own transitions and animations. Additionally, users can choose background music from their library or select from the app’s default soundtracks.
The free slideshow maker also uses machine learning to identify significant people, places, and events in your photo library. It then creates slideshows called Memories based on these elements.
Pros:
- Slideshow app available for free on all iOS devices.
- You can incorporate Live Photos and videos seamlessly into your slideshows.
- Stream slideshows to any compatible Apple TV or AirPlay-enabled device.
Cons:
- It lacks advanced settings found in dedicated slideshow maker apps.
How to select the slideshow creator
Are you interested in a free slideshow generator? With so many options available, it can be hard to choose the best one.
Do some research online to find out which free slideshow makers exist and what features they offer. Read reviews and compare different products.
These are a few tips to help you make the right decision.
- Functionality. Make sure the software is user-friendly and has all the necessary tools for creating a great slideshow. It should also have an intuitive interface.
- Compatibility. Ensure that the free presentation generator works with your device and operating system. You should also possess the ability to share your slideshows easily on social media or other platforms.
- Updates. Look for a slide creator that provides periodic updates with fresh features and bug fixes. This will verify your slideshows stay up-to-date and look professional.
- Support. Find out if there is customer support available in case you have any problems with the software.
By following these tips, you'll be able to find the best free slideshow maker for your needs. With the right tool, you can create stunning slideshows in no time!
Reasons to make a slideshow
Slideshows are the perfect way to capture memories, tell stories, and create lasting impressions. They're great for any occasion, from weddings and birthdays to anniversaries and graduations. Here's a look at some of the best times to create a slideshow:
Weddings
The big day can go by in a flash. With a wedding slideshow, you can capture all the moments that make up your day – from the ceremony to the reception. With a free slideshow maker, you can choose from hundreds of templates and transition effects.
Birthdays
Make your loved one feel special by creating a birthday slideshow. Include photos, videos, and music that capture the special day. You can incorporate captions and text to customize each slide.
Anniversaries
Celebrate your relationship with an anniversary slideshow. Include photos from your time together – from when you first met all the way through present day. Choose from templates that showcase photos in beautiful frames or collages.
Graduations
Mark the end of an era with a graduation slideshow. Capture each milestone along the way with photos of friends and family cheering them on. You can even add motivational quotes or inspirational words to show how proud you are of their accomplishment.
Funerals
A slideshow provides an opportunity to celebrate the life of the departed by showcasing moments of joy, love, and happiness captured in photographs. Involve family and friends in the creation process to gather a diverse range of photos and perspectives.
No matter what occasion you're celebrating, creating a slideshow is an effortless and enjoyable method of preserving memories and recounting tales with friends and family.
Utilizing free slideshow creators, you don't have to be tech-savvy to get started. Just choose a template, add photos, music, and captions, and you'll have an amazing slideshow in no time!
Tips
- Choose a simple template (if any); it will make your presentation look more professional.
- Utilize animation, transitions, and other design elements to make your slides stand out.
- Avoid adding too many graphics; they can distract from the content.
- Keep your text short and to the point; long sentences can be difficult to read on slides.
- Integrate visuals such as charts, graphs, or photographs to enhance the presentation.
- Use contrasting colors for text and backgrounds for better visibility.
- Record a voiceover or use music to add emotion to the presentation.
- Check the text for spelling and grammar errors before sharing the slides with others.
- Use the preview feature of the slide creator to ensure everything looks correct before sharing your slideshow.
FAQ
- What types of formats do slideshow programs support?
- Most slideshow creators provide support for common image formats such as JPG, PNG, and GIF as well as video formats like MP4 and MOV.
- Are there free presentation makers with built-in templates?
- Yes! Slideshow generator offers integrated templates that enable users to start promptly without having to construct slides from the ground up.
- Can I add music to my slideshows?
- Our slideshow maker allows you to add music or sound effects directly from their library or through an external source such as YouTube or SoundCloud.
- Are there any limits on how many slides I can add to one project?
- This depends on the specific software you are using but most offer unlimited slide options.
- Should I include animations or transitions?
- Subtle animations or transitions can enhance the presentation, but avoid overusing them as they can become distracting.
- How much text is too much on a slide?
- Ideally, no more than 6-8 lines of text per slide, with each line containing no more than 6-7 words. This ensures readability.
Best Free Slideshow Makers: Conclusion
To conclude, creating a slideshow can be an easy and enjoyable process. When choosing a free slides maker, the most important considerations are the features and ease of use.
Look for a tool that offers vast personalization choices and templates, along with the potential to cooperate with others if necessary. Additionally, best slideshow maker should provide multiple output options and be compatible with your device or operating system.
Overall, free slideshow makers can be incredibly useful in creating professional-looking slideshows with minimal effort. The correct tool allows you to make gorgeous presentations without depleting your wallet. So why not give one a try today?
Editor-in-Chief at Icecream Apps
