5 Keynote Alternatives to Make Creative Slideshow Presentations on the Mac
It’s impressive and convenient that all Macs come preinstalled with robust and well-integrated presentation software like Keynote. For most people, it means they do not need to purchase third-party software.
However, while Keynote works great with your Mac and other Apple products, it’s often not enough when you want to come up with creative slideshow presentations.
Fortunately, you’re able to explore several Keynote alternatives to find something better. In this guide, we have covered the five best Keynote alternatives to create better slideshow presentations.
1. Microsoft PowerPoint
It has become almost customary for many Mac users to install Microsoft Office when setting up their Mac desktop or notebook. In their defense, Microsoft PowerPoint offers a better environment to build creative slideshow presentations for different purposes. More importantly, PPT files from PowerPoint also get broad support across popular platforms like Windows, Linux, Android, and iOS.
First, PowerPoint offers a richer and more up-to-date collection of templates to choose from. You can also download PPT templates from third-party sources. Second, compared to Keynote, PowerPoint offers more options for customizing the presentation. For instance, you can expect a more versatile collection of fonts, animations, transitions, etc.
We should also remember that PowerPoint uses a UI that most people are familiar with. So, if you use other Microsoft Office products, PowerPoint will be easy to manage than Keynote.
Download:Microsoft Office($6.99 per month, free trial available)
While Canva is not as old as Keynote or primary alternatives, it helps several times better when you want an eye-catching slideshow presentation. Canva is primarily a web-based designing tool, but its Mac app also does a decent job.
We don’t think it’s as customizable as PowerPoint, butCanva has many innovative features. You can, for instance, bring in modern design elements and stock photos in a single click. Similarly, you can use design assets from previous projects on Canva. You also have the option to export your presentation into various formats like PDF, PNG, and MP4.
Compared to Keynote, Canva offers a dynamic collection of purpose-oriented templates. So, it’s possible to choose between starting from scratch or using a rich template. In the long run, Canva lets you create striking presentations and saves time. While some Canva features are premium-only, the free version works for most people.
Download:Canva(Free, premium subscription available)
3. Prezi Present
Prezi Present is another great option for creating conversational presentation slideshows. It’s powered by significant design refreshes and interactive slides, which make everything look more attractive. As a result, it becomes easier to communicate complex concepts through slideshows. So, it is unsurprising that many educators and business professionals use Prezi for Mac.
Even though you’re able to use the web-based app for the same experience, the macOS app of Prezi is pretty impressive, as it’s easier to include content stored on your Mac. It is also a better option when you want to present the slideshow from your MacBook. However, despite how aesthetically pleasing Prezi slideshows are, the file formats are not widely compatible.
Nevertheless, you’re able to convert an existing PowerPoint presentation into a Prezi presentation. We should also remind you that a premium subscription for this tool gives you access to a video creation and design suite.
Download:Prezi Present(Free, premium subscription available)
4. Focusky
Unlike the other Keynote alternatives we have covered till now, Focusky has a slightly different objective. It is designed to help you create HTML5 slideshow presentations that work great on the web. Most of its core features are aligned with helping you build innovative business presentations. Therefore, you may easily find common elements like flow charts, graphs, and diagrams.
First, you can choose one of the many presentation templates from Focusky, which updates the collection often. But, even if you start with a blank project, you can choose between standard outlines for business presentations. Then, once you start, you can use Focusky to insert almost everything into the presentation, including shapes, screen recordings, images, and documents.
Things become more impressive when you want to export or publish the presentation. For example, you can convert the presentation into HTML5 or create a Windows app, macOS app, PDF, or video.
Download:Focusky(Free, premium subscription available)
5. WPS Office
WPS Office is a competitor to Apple’s iWork Suite and apopular alternative to Microsoft Office 365. So, its presentation app is better than Keynote in many aspects.
More importantly, the presentation app from WPS Office works with popular formats, includingMicrosoft PPT and Google Slides. However, compared to Keynote or Slides, WPS Office offers a versatile collection of creative templates.
We also love that the presentations app uses a UI design similar to that of Microsoft Office. So, if you switched from Windows to macOS, you can retain your workflow. The collection of transitions, fonts, and effects is also impressive. So, you’ll find it easy to create a lesson plan for your course, a pitching presentation at work, or something out of the box.
Unlike Keynote, WPS Office works well with other third-party apps and offers multiple export options. Therefore, it will be easier when you want to convert your presentation into a video or PDF file.
Download:WPS Office(Free, in-app purchases available)
Creating a Better Presentation Without Keynote
While each Keynote alternative on this list packs a unique set of features, you should understand that having a good presentation app is only one part of the story.
You should also employ effective communication methods and professional tips to make your slideshow presentation engaging.
Follow these tips to make your PowerPoint presentations stand out and keep your audience interested.
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