Figma vs Photoshop vs Mockup Generators: Which Should You Use?

When you need to create a device mockup, you have three main options: Figma, Photoshop, or a dedicated mockup generator. Each has its place, but they're not equally suited for every situation.

Let's break down when to use each.

Figma

Best for: Design teams already working in Figma Pros:

• You're probably already using it
• Full creative control
• Free tier available
• Collaborative

Cons:

• Requires finding/buying mockup templates
• Time-consuming for quick mockups
• Learning curve for non-designers
• Templates often need manual adjustments

Time to create one mockup: 5-15 minutes (plus time finding templates)

Photoshop

Best for: Professional designers who need maximum control Pros:

• Ultimate flexibility
• Smart objects for easy swapping
• Professional-grade output
• Massive template library available

Cons:

• Expensive subscription ($20+/month)
• Steep learning curve
• Overkill for simple mockups
• Slow workflow for quick tasks

Time to create one mockup: 5-20 minutes

Dedicated Mockup Generators

Best for: Anyone who needs mockups quickly without design skills Pros:

• Fastest option (under 30 seconds)
• No design skills required
• Device frames always up-to-date
• Consistent, professional results

Cons:

• Less creative flexibility
• Limited to preset options
• May require subscription for full features

Time to create one mockup: 10-30 seconds

When to Use What

Use Figma when:

• You're already designing in Figma
• You need mockups integrated into a larger design file
• You want collaborative editing
• You have time to set up templates

Use Photoshop when:

• You need highly customized mockups
• You're creating complex compositions
• You already have a subscription
• You need print-quality output

Use a mockup generator when:

• You need mockups fast
• You're not a designer
• You're doing App Store screenshots
• You're creating social media content
• You're launching on Product Hunt and need visuals now

The Real Answer

For most people, the answer is: use a mockup generator for 90% of your needs.

Here's why: time matters. When you're launching a product, updating your website, or posting on social media, you don't have 15 minutes to fiddle with layers in Figma. You need a mockup now.

Tools like Screenhance exist specifically for this use case. Upload your screenshot, pick a frame, export. Done in seconds.

Save Figma and Photoshop for when you actually need that level of control. For everyday mockups, keep it simple.

Related Reading

• What Is a Mockup? Types, Uses, and Examples - Mockup fundamentals
• How to Make a Mockup: Complete Beginner's Guide - Step-by-step guide
• Best Free Mockup Tools in 2025 - Detailed comparison of free options
• Best Screenshot Tools for Developers in 2025 - Developer-specific tools

Conclusion

The best tool is the one that gets the job done without wasting your time. For quick, professional mockups, dedicated generators win. For complex design work, stick with Figma or Photoshop.

Most successful teams use a combination: mockup generators for speed, design tools for custom work.