Today, mobile phones and personal computers are no longer mere communication or productivity tools. They're now an active part of our digital leisure activities, giving us the ability to transform our memories and experiences into authentic works of visual art. art of photo collage has resurfaced strongly, not only as a trend on social media, but as a way to express emotions, tell stories, or show our creativity to the world. It's becoming easier and easier, thanks to the incredible variety of apps for making photo collages which exist for both Android and iPhone, as well as for use on PC or Mac, most of them free, easy to use, and with features that match what was previously only achieved in professional editing programs.
In this ultimate guide, we'll help you discover all the possibilities, options, features, and advanced tricks to create perfect collages from your smartphone or computer. You'll find a comprehensive comparison with the Best free and paid apps for making photo collages, its most notable features, advantages, disadvantages, usage tips, as well as recommendations for achieving professional and original results, even if you've never created one before. In addition, we'll show you how to choose the most suitable option for you and explain how to get the most out of each app depending on your goals and knowledge.
Why create photo collages with apps?
The photo collage is not just a gallery of grouped images, but a visual language capable of transmitting feelings, experiences and memoriesThis technique, which originated in traditional art, has evolved to become a widely used resource by designers, content creators, influencers, businesses, and anyone who wants to stand out on social media, create a personalized invitation, tell a story on Instagram Stories, or simply artistically capture the most important moments of their lives.
The mobile apps to create collages They have democratized this technique, allowing any user to achieve incredible results without advanced technical knowledge. Some of the advantages of using collage apps are:
- Easy to use: Pre-designed templates, smart wizards, and intuitive editing tools.
- Unlimited creativity: They allow you to combine images, videos, text, stickers, effects, frames, backgrounds and much more.
- Professional results: Many apps include advanced features like AI filters, facial retouching, layered editing, animations, and high-quality export.
- Easy Sharing: Post your creations on Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, Pinterest, or any other social network with just one click.
- Full customization: Choose grid styles, free formats, borders, colors, positions, transparencies and achieve unique compositions.
What types of collage can you create?
Before choosing the ideal application, be clear what style of collage you want to achieve. Currently, the most comprehensive apps allow you to create all kinds of compositions:
- Grid collages: Several photos arranged in rows and columns. Ideal for event recaps, birthdays, trips, or before-and-afters.
- Freestyle or scrapbooking: Images in different positions, rotations, and sizes, accompanied by text, shapes, custom backgrounds, and decorative elements.
- Moodboards: Creative boards for inspiration or project planning. Widely used in fashion, interior design, and marketing.
- Artistic collages: Overlay effects, transparencies, creative cutouts, stickers, frames, and themed backgrounds.
- Animated or multimedia: Apps that allow you to include videos or GIFs for more dynamic compositions.
- Story collages: Perfect for sharing on Instagram, WhatsApp, Facebook, or Snapchat.
How to choose the best collage maker app?
The market is saturated with applications, but not all of them offer the same possibilities. To select the most suitable app for you, keep the following key aspects in mind:
- Compatibility: Is it available for Android, iOS, Windows or Mac?
- Simplicity vs. Power: Are you looking for a quick and easy app for basic results, or do you prefer an advanced tool with professional features?
- Variety of templates: Do you offer a large number of pre-designed styles and designs?
- Personalization: Does it allow you to modify proportions, backgrounds, borders, position, effects, and add text, stickers, music, or video?
- Price and free options: Is it free, has ads, locks features after a subscription, or has in-app purchases?
- Export and save quality: Can you save in high resolution, choose formats, print, or share directly to social media?
- User and community ratings: Does it have positive reviews, a creative community, and frequent updates?
The best apps to make photo collages
After analyzing the information from the main specialized websites and user ratings, we present the The most complete and up-to-date list of apps for creating collagesWe include both mobile options (Android/iOS) and online and desktop alternatives (Windows/Mac), with a special emphasis on the most popular features and the differences between them. You'll also find free and paid apps for all levels and needs.
1. PhotoDirector – Professional creativity and artificial intelligence
Compatibility: Android, iOS, Windows and Mac
PhotoDirector is much more than a collage app: it's a powerful editor with advanced tools, AI integration, and an extremely intuitive interface. It stands out for:
- 59+ Pre-designed Collage Themes and a variety of templates for all kinds of occasions (holidays, birthdays, mood boards, special events...)
- Color editing, smart cropping, automatic background removal, and added stickers and animations.
- AI Facial Retouching, adjustable lighting, high-level filters and effects.
- You can combine photos and videos into a single collage (exclusive multimedia feature).
- Regular updates, high-resolution export, and a creative user community.
It offers a very complete free version, and a premium option for advanced tools.
2. Canva – Graphic design, collages, and unlimited templates
Compatibility: Android, iOS, Web, Windows, Mac
Canva is the most versatile design tool: its collage editor It is extremely easy to use and has a huge database with Thousands of free and premium templates, frames, backgrounds, and resources. You may:
- Customize any element of the template, modify sizes, proportions, crop, overlay images, add text, icons, backgrounds, and stickers.
- Create dynamic collages, in video format or with animations for social media.
- Export in various formats (PNG, JPG, PDF) and quality (high resolution or for sharing).
- Work as a team, access Pro resources, and even print your designs with integrated services.
Suitable for any user, from beginners to professionals. Available in a free version and Canva Pro.
3. PicCollage – Simplicity, hundreds of templates, and smart cropping
Compatibility: Android, iOS
PicCollage is one of the most downloaded and highly rated collage apps. Its strengths include:
- More than 200 customizable templates For any occasion.
- Smart cropping feature to change backgrounds or remove unwanted elements.
- Large library of stickers, frames, backgrounds, and fonts to customize your creations.
- Simple and convenient interface, perfect for those looking for fast and attractive results.
- Allows you to start from scratch or use pre-designed layouts.
It includes an active community where you can share and discover other users' collages, and a paid option to unlock premium stickers.
4. Moldiv – Advanced Image Editor and Collage Maker with Creative Borders
Compatibility: Android, iOS
Moldiv is at the top of apps for its balance between Power as a photo editor and ease of creating professional-looking collagesIts features include:
- Collection of over 80 free templates (and many more in Pro version).
- Integrated camera for instant capture and editing.
- Wide variety of frames, borders, styles and combinations to personalize your images.
- Texts, stickers, filters, brightness editing, contrast, exposure and more.
- High-resolution export and social media sharing.
5. Ribbet – Minimalism, speed, and elegant results
Compatibility: Android, iOS, Web
If you are looking for a simple application but with polished results, Ribbet It's a great alternative. It stands out because:
- Includes about 40 collage templates for all kinds of occasions, ideal for minimalist compositions.
- Allows you to adjust borders, proportions, background color, add stickers and up to 100 different font types.
- Basic but effective editing tools (size, contrast, auto-fix, crop, rotate).
- Perfect for beginner users looking for practicality and good design.
6. Promeo – Express templates and collages with video and music
Compatibility: Android, iOS
Promeo has been recognized as one of the best apps for quick collage making, thanks to its focus on pre-designed templates and multimedia features:
- Catalog of templates filterable by theme: photos, videos, music, special dates, etc.
- Advanced search bar to find the ideal collage style in seconds.
- Ability to add music, video clips and photos to the same composition.
- AI background removal feature, ideal for cutting out elements and giving a professional touch.
The free version is very usable, and for those looking for more, there is a paid option with expanded features.
7. InCollage – Collages with up to 20 images and thousands of designs
Compatibility: Android, iOS
InCollage is an ALL-IN-ONE app perfect for those who want maximum flexibility in collage design:
- Allows you to mix up to 20 photos into a single collage and choose from over 10.000 grid layouts and frames.
- A large collection of backgrounds, stickers, professional filters, and editing options like contrast, brightness, exposure, cropping, and edge adjustment.
- “Grid” and “Freestyle” modes to start your collage in a guided or completely personalized way.
- Text tool to add memes, quotes, or creative descriptions.
- Export high-resolution images and optimize for Instagram, WhatsApp, Facebook, etc.
- Pro subscription option for advanced features.
8. Layout from Instagram – Simplicity and seamless integration with Instagram
Compatibility: Android, iOS
Layout is Instagram's official app for creating quick collages and sharing them directly on the social network. Its benefits include:
- Ideal for those who use Instagram frequently: direct export to Stories and posts.
- Allows you to choose up to 9 photos, apply a mirror effect, crop, rotate, add borders, and adjust image angles.
- Face mode to easily identify your favorite selfies.
- Ultra-intuitive use and minimalist results.
The edition focuses on grid design, so it doesn't allow for as many decorative elements as other apps, but it's excellent for those looking for agility.
9. PicsArt Photo Editor – Creative Community & Advanced Editing
Compatibility: Android, iOS, Web
PicsArt is one of the most popular and complete tools, with Powerful collage and photo editing features:
- 100+ collage templates and modes (grids, freestyle, stories, memes, covers, etc.).
- Large catalog of stickers, effects, AI filters, background editing, and a background removal tool.
- It allows challenges, contests, and community collaboration (you can share your creations, comment, and be inspired by other users' work).
- Advanced editing option for layers, text, overlays and artistic effects.
- Available in both free and premium versions with additional resources.
10. PhotoGrid – Collages, grids, and animated GIFs
Compatibility: Android, iOS
PhotoGrid stands out for its enormous range of possibilities for post creative content on social media:
- It allows you to include up to 15 photos in a single grid and choose from more than 300 different layouts and shapes.
- It incorporates filters, fairy tale-style effects, digital painting, and meme options.
- Ability to create animated GIFs and video collages, ideal for Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok.
- Tools to blur backgrounds, graffiti, add stickers, and customize the proportions of each collage.
11. Collage Maker | Photo Editor – Versatility and features for creatives
Compatibility: Android
This application stands out for its Versatility to create professional collages with up to 100 images in a single composition:
- Over 100 customizable grid and frame styles.
- Edit backgrounds, stickers, fonts, doodles, and filters. Freestyle or grid.
- Creative tools for side-by-sides, comparisons, YouTube covers, Instagram covers, and more.
- AI editing to enhance blurry images or optimize quality with a single tap.
- High-resolution export and easy sharing on all social networks.
12. Turbo Collage – Desktop and Mobile Solutions
Compatibility: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android
For those who want to create collages from their computer, Turbo Collage is one of the most robust apps:
- A variety of templates, mosaics, Polaroid-style collages, mood boards, and contact sheets.
- Easy to use and ideal for printing professional results.
- Available for download on PC, Mac and mobile.
- Combination of basic templates and customizable styles.
13. Fuzel Collage – Fun, templates and animations
Compatibility: Android, iOS
Fuzel Collage brings together A wide variety of templates, stickers and options for making animated collages and even include video clips:
- There is no limit to the number of images you can add.
- Integration with Facebook, Flickr and Instagram for easy photo importing.
- Tools to create animations, add stickers, frames and dynamic effects.
- Ideal designs to share in stories or creative prints.
14. Diptic – Elegant templates for photo and video collages
Compatibility: iOS, Android
Diptic is the favorite app for those looking for integrate photos and video clips into a stylish collage frame:
- Over 190 layout options, multiple fonts, and high-quality export.
- Allows you to mix videos and photos in the same composition, adding effects, filters and music.
- Clear and fast interface, suitable for all ages.
15. PiZap – Fun and creative collages for social media
Compatibility: Web, Android, iOS
PiZap is ideal for those who love colorful and casual options:
- Packed with stickers, doodles, and Japanese photo booth-style features.
- Perfect for standing out in viral content or memes.
- Simple editing options, but sufficient for those looking for creativity without complications.
16. BeFunky Collage Maker – Powerful and easy-to-use online editor
Compatibility: Web, Android, iOS, Windows, Mac
A highly valued cross-platform solution for create collages via the web or mobile app:
- Grid templates, freestyle, magazine or poster layout.
- Import photos from Dropbox, Google Drive, Facebook, and image banks (Unsplash).
- Allows you to let the app automatically arrange images for you.
- Quick export to Facebook, Twitter or local download.
17. PhotoCollage.com – Shortcuts and templates for quick online collages
Compatibility: Web, Android, iOS
PhotoCollage.com is oriented towards the Express collage creation with a variety of shortcuts, fonts, and effects:
- Very intuitive editor, multiple templates and option to add text and basic effects.
- Free to create simple compositions without watermarks in the premium version.
18. Grid Maker – Creative Grid and Shape Collages
Compatibility: Android
Grid Maker adds shapes and styles less common in other apps, such as heart-shaped collages, star-shaped collages, mosaics, and customizable grids:
- Allows you to add up to 16 images in a single composition.
- Scrapbook mode and emojis to personalize your creations.
- Access to more than 300 templates in the paid version.
19. Instasize Photo Editor + Video – Advanced Editing & Professional Filters
Compatibility: Android, iOS
Instasize is an all-in-one app that stands out for:
- Over 130 filters inspired by professional photographers.
- Advanced editing: exposure, brightness, hue, contrast, sharpness, and saturation.
- Beauty tools and quick adjustments for selfies and portraits.
- Combination of photos, videos, stickers and text.
20. Google Photos – Quick collages from the cloud
Compatibility: Android, iOS, Web
Google Photos, although limited compared to specialized apps, allows you to create basic collages directly from your gallery:
- Choose up to 9 images, apply filters, and save or share your composition.
- Advanced search technology to quickly find people and events.
- Automatic featured image recommendations.
Advanced tips for creating original and professional photo collages
Creating a creative and balanced collage requires some practice and attention to detail. Apply the following expert tips and tricks to take your compositions to the next level:
- Consistency is key: Choose images with a similar color palette and theme that tell a coherent story and aren't visually chaotic.
- Highlight a main image: Select the main photo you want to capture attention and use the rest to frame it or enhance its message.
- Simplicity above all: Avoid overloading your collage with too many images, colors, or effects. A clean, airy design is often more appealing.
- Play with borders and negative space: Adjust the spacing between images and use borders to frame photos or create dynamic look.
- Personalize with text and graphic elements: Add titles, inspirational quotes, icons, and stickers to add personality to your collage.
- Try different formats: Experiment with vertical, horizontal, square, or creative compositions to suit each social network.
- Use filters and effects sparingly: Don't overuse effects; select only those that enhance the overall aesthetic.
- Save your collages in high quality: If you plan to print them, be sure to export in the highest resolution available in the app.
- Get inspired by the app galleries or communities: Many apps include a section of featured work from other users.
How to make a photo collage step by step?
If you are new to creating collages, follow this Quick guide to making collages on your mobile:
- Install a recommended collage app like PhotoDirector, Canva, or InCollage.
- In the main menu, select the option Collage or “Create collage”.
- Choose the template or theme that best suits the number of photos you want to use.
- Select images from your gallery.
- Organize, crop, customize background colors, add text, stickers, or effects.
- Save the result to your device or share it on social media.
For advanced options, explore layer editing, AI, and animation features in apps like PhotoDirector, make videos with photos on Android or Canva Pro.
