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5 Best Free Kitchen-Planning App Software in 2026 (Tested & Reviewed)
5 Best Free Kitchen-Planning App Software in 2026 (Tested & Reviewed)
Designing your dream kitchen doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Whether you’re remodeling or building from scratch, free kitchen design software can help you visualize your layout, experiment with styles, and even select specific furniture—all without spending a dime.
But with so many tools out there, which ones are actually worth your time?
We’ve tested and reviewed the best free kitchen planner apps in 2026 so you don’t have to. Here’s what you need to know.
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🔍 What to Expect from Free Kitchen Design Software
✅ Common Features
• User-Friendly Interfaces: Most tools prioritize drag-and-drop simplicity.
• No Downloads Required: Many planners are browser-based—no installations needed.
• 2D & 3D Design Options: Toggle between floor plans and full 3D previews.
• Community Support: Forums, tutorials, and even contests can help you level up your skills.
⚠️ Common Limitations
• Advanced Features Behind Paywalls: Some tools restrict textures, rendering, or item selection.
• Device Restrictions: Not all apps are mobile-friendly.
• Learning Curve: Customization power sometimes comes at the cost of ease of use.
• Limited Object Libraries: Free versions may include fewer cabinets, finishes, or appliances.
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🥇 Best Free Kitchen Planner Software in 2026
- IKEA Kitchen Planner
Best for IKEA Shoppers
If you plan to buy from IKEA, their free kitchen planner is a must-try. It allows you to plan your kitchen using real IKEA products.
Key Features:
• Real IKEA products with accurate dimensions.
• 3D views (including overhead and frontal).
• Auto pricing as you design.
• Works in your browser (imperial/metric based on region).
Pros:
• Accurate to what you’ll receive.
• Great for IKEA-focused kitchens.
Cons:
• Limited to IKEA inventory.
• Somewhat clunky interface.
👉 Recommended for: IKEA buyers who want “what you see is what you get.”
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- Homestyler
Best for Customization & Realistic Rendering
Homestyler is a powerful 3D floor planner ideal for kitchen and whole-home design. It has a vast object library and detailed customization.
Key Features:
• Custom floor plans in 2D or 3D.
• Huge furniture catalog.
• Realistic visualization.
• Free to use, with optional paid upgrades.
Pros:
• Great for visualizing designs in detail.
• Active design contests and community support.
Cons:
• Steeper learning curve.
• Not ideal for quick layout sketches.
👉 Recommended for: Interior design enthusiasts who want flexibility and realism.
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- Planner 5D
Best Mobile-Friendly Kitchen Design App
Available on iOS, Android, PC, and Mac, Planner 5D lets you design anywhere—right from your smartphone or tablet.
Key Features:
• 2D/3D switch with one click.
• Augmented reality (AR) support.
• Design battles to win features.
• Multi-story design capability.
Pros:
• Mobile-first design.
• Easy to use, very intuitive on smartphones.
Cons:
• Many features locked behind paywall.
• Limited free textures and furniture.
👉 Recommended for: On-the-go designers or shoppers who want to sketch layouts from their phones.
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- HomeByMe
Best Overall User Experience
HomebyMe is a smart online planner that tailors itself to your workflow—whether you want to go fast, be precise, or upload a floor plan.
Key Features:
• Choose between guided or manual planning.
• Add furniture in 3D view.
• Texture and object customization.
• Upload your own floor plan.
Pros:
• Beginner-friendly and highly flexible.
• Doesn’t force deep customization unless desired.
Cons:
• Some advanced features require payment.
👉 Recommended for: Users of all skill levels looking for a seamless design process.
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- Sweet Home 3D
Best Open-Source Kitchen Design Software
Sweet Home 3D is an open-source, downloadable design tool with simple functionality and solid results.
Key Features:
• 2D drafting with automatic 3D preview.
• Adjustable dimensions and object rotation.
• Downloadable and available in 25+ languages.
Pros:
• Works offline.
• Easy to learn and use.
Cons:
• Requires Java for online use.
• Limited furniture set in free version.
👉 Recommended for: DIYers and tinkerers who want offline access and open-source flexibility.
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⭐ Bonus: Roomstyler
Best for Mood Boards & Inspiration
Roomstyler blends design tools and creativity, letting you create rooms and mood boards while joining design contests for inspiration.
Key Features:
• Drag-and-drop floor plan creator.
• Mood board and style guide tools.
• Active design community and contests.
👉 Recommended for: Creatives looking to play with design concepts in a stylish and social setting.
✅ Comparison
Tool | Best For | Mobile-Friendly | 3D View | Catalog Size |
---|---|---|---|---|
IKEA Planner | IKEA furniture planning | ❌ | ✅ | IKEA products |
Homestyler | Full-home interior design | ✅ | ✅ | Huge |
Planner 5D | Designing on mobile devices | ✅ | ✅ | Moderate (Free) |
HomeByMe | Flexible workflows | ✅ | ✅ | Large |
Sweet Home 3D | Open-source, offline use | ❌ (desktop) | ✅ | Basic (Free) |
Roomstyler | Mood board & community features | ✅ | ✅ | Large |
🎁 Want a Free Custom Kitchen Design?
If you’re looking for a professional kitchen design service for free, and you already have your kitchen dimensions, visit BuyCabinetOnline.com to get a custom kitchen layout created just for you—completely free.
In addition to kitchen planning, the site also offers a curated selection of affordable, high-quality kitchen cabinets that you can purchase online and have delivered directly to your home. Whether you’re remodeling, flipping a house, or building from scratch, it’s a smart way to save time and money.
💡 Final Tip
Whether you choose to DIY with a free app or work with a design expert at no cost, the most important step is to start. Use these tools to explore ideas, test layouts, and make informed choices—and remember that BuyCabinetOnline.com is there if you want real help from real designers, with real savings.