We Tested AI Design Tools… Here’s the Best One

Last updated: June 18, 2026

TL;DR: We tested two professional designers using AI design tools to create an email banner in 30 minutes. Ruslan used only Freepik and produced a highly realistic, visually stunning result. Martynas leveraged a combination of ChatGPT, Midjourney, and Adobe Firefly to create a polished, holographic design. The experts agree that AI is revolutionizing content creation, but it won’t replace human designers anytime soon.

If you’ve started an online business, there will come a time when you need to create digital ads and marketing assets. Whether it’s for social media or email campaigns, that day is inevitable. So, we decided to put AI design tools to the test with the help of two professional designers, Martynas and Ruslan.
The challenge was simple: create an email banner in 30 minutes using any AI tools at their disposal. The designers were given a specific concept to work with, and once the time was up, they had to step away from the keyboard.

Ruslan’s Freepik Masterpiece

Ruslan chose to use only Freepik for this challenge. He started by asking ChatGPT to generate a starry galaxy background that could be used in Midjourney. While the AI image was generating, Ruslan prepared some basic instructions and assets in Freepik.

“Uh my today’s tool was only Freepik. Uh in terms of generating images. Of course, I worked with Gemini for adjusting the prompt and so on.”

The result was nothing short of stunning. Ruslan was able to create a highly realistic, visually appealing email banner entirely within Freepik. The galaxy background had depth and texture, and Ruslan even added a product shot of a snack bar integrated into the design.
Freepik’s AI-powered image generation tools, combined with a designer’s eye for composition and branding, can produce professional-grade visuals without the need for complex software or extensive design skills. AI-powered image generation tools

Martynas’ Holographic Masterpiece

Martynas, on the other hand, took a more multi-faceted approach. He started by using ChatGPT to generate the form and layout for the email banner, then turned to Midjourney to create the visual elements. To add the finishing touch, Martynas utilized Adobe Firefly to give the text a holographic effect.

“Chat GPT for form generation, uh Midjourney for creating visuals, then Adobe Firefly for making text in a holographic way. Of course, Photoshop creating, you know, whole composition for the visual, but any kind of tool works here, basically.”

The end result was a polished, visually striking email banner that combined multiple AI-powered tools. Martynas was able to create a cohesive design that effectively communicated the marketing message.
By using a combination of AI-powered tools, designers can streamline their workflow and create high-quality visuals that would have been much more time-consuming to produce manually. Streamline their workflow

The Future of AI in Design

Both Ruslan and Martynas were able to produce impressive results using AI design tools, but they agreed that the technology won’t replace professional designers anytime soon.

“Not yet. From what I see in Ruslan as like it’s It’s just only the pre-pick that made a visual. It can make like really good product shots. So, all the designers have to really follow the updates and implement AI in most of the works, so that AI wouldn’t replace them, because it’s getting easier and easier, and maybe like anyone can use it, basically, now. So, but it won’t replace the people, because people has different mindset.”

The designers agreed that while AI tools can streamline the creative process and produce high-quality visuals, human designers still bring a unique perspective and creative vision that AI cannot fully replicate. The key is for designers to stay up-to-date with the latest AI advancements and integrate them into their workflow.
AI design tools are revolutionizing the industry, but they won’t replace human designers anytime soon. The most successful creative professionals will be those who can use AI to enhance their workflow and creative output.

Conclusion: The AI-Powered Future of Design

The experiment with Ruslan and Martynas showcases the incredible potential of AI design tools. From Freepik’s AI-generated visuals to the holographic effects of Adobe Firefly, these technologies are transforming the way designers work. However, the human element remains crucial, as designers must adapt their skills to effectively use AI.
As the AI revolution continues to reshape the design industry, the most successful creatives will be those who can strike the right balance between human creativity and AI-powered efficiency. By embracing these tools and integrating them into their workflow, designers can elevate their work and cement their status as true industry authorities.

AI design tools are a game-changer, but they won’t replace human designers anytime soon. The key is for creative professionals to stay ahead of the curve, continuously learn new AI-powered techniques, and use these tools to enhance their unique creative vision.

Exploring the Impact of AI on Design Processes

AI design tools are not just changing the final output of design work; they are also transforming the entire design process. Designers are now able to automate repetitive tasks, freeing up time to focus on more creative aspects of their work. For instance, generating variations of a design can be done quickly with AI, allowing designers to explore multiple concepts without the usual time constraints.

This shift in workflow means that designers can experiment more freely and take creative risks that they might have avoided in a more traditional setting. The ability to rapidly prototype and iterate on designs can lead to more innovative solutions and a richer final product.

How to Apply AI Design Tools Effectively

To make the most of AI design tools, designers should consider the following steps:

• Identify Your Needs: Determine what aspects of your design process could benefit from AI. Whether it is generating images, creating layouts, or automating repetitive tasks, knowing your needs will help you choose the right tools.
• Experiment with Different Tools: Take the time to explore various AI design tools available in the market. Each tool has its unique features and strengths, so finding the right fit for your workflow is essential.
• Integrate AI into Your Workflow: Start incorporating AI tools into your existing design processes. This may involve adjusting your workflow to accommodate new tools and techniques, but the benefits can be significant.
• Stay Updated: The field of AI is constantly evolving. Keep yourself informed about the latest advancements and updates in AI design tools to ensure you are using the best available resources.
• Balance Human Creativity with AI Efficiency: While AI can enhance productivity, it is important to maintain the unique creative vision that only human designers can provide. Use AI as a complement to your skills rather than a replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are AI design tools?

AI design tools are software applications that utilize artificial intelligence to assist designers in creating visual content. These tools can automate tasks, generate images, and enhance the overall design process by providing intelligent suggestions and capabilities.

Can AI design tools replace human designers?

While AI design tools can significantly enhance the design process and produce high-quality visuals, they cannot fully replace human designers. The unique perspective, creativity, and emotional intelligence that human designers bring to their work are irreplaceable.

How can I start using AI design tools?

To start using AI design tools, identify the areas of your design process that could benefit from automation or enhancement. Experiment with different tools, integrate them into your workflow, and continuously learn about new features and advancements in AI technology.

Are AI design tools easy to use?

Many AI design tools are designed with user-friendliness in mind. While there may be a learning curve, especially for more advanced features, most tools provide tutorials and support to help users get started quickly.

What are the benefits of using AI in design?

The benefits of using AI in design include increased efficiency, the ability to generate high-quality visuals quickly, improved workflow, and the opportunity for designers to focus on more creative tasks. AI can also assist in exploring multiple design concepts rapidly.

Final Thoughts on AI in Design

The integration of AI design tools into the creative process presents numerous opportunities for designers to enhance their work. By following practical steps to implement these tools effectively, designers can improve their efficiency while maintaining their unique creative vision. As the design landscape continues to evolve, those who embrace AI will likely find themselves at the forefront of innovation in the industry.