The Ultimate Toolkit for Freelance Web Designers in 2025

Just starting out as a freelance web designer in 2025? If so, you’re in for a ride filled with creativity, freedom, and, let’s be honest, a little chaos too.

Between building websites, chasing client feedback, and trying to stay on top of deadlines, things can get messy.

Using the right tools changes everything.

In this guide, you’ll find a complete toolkit for freelance web designers featuring 25 of the best website design tools that are easy to use and perfect for beginners.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to streamline, they are must-have tools for freelance web designers.

Building and Hosting Websites

Whether you’re launching a client site or building your own portfolio, the right website builder saves hours.

These tools for freelance web designers combine speed, control, and a professional finish in one smart package.

1. ZipWP

When a client needs a website fast, ZipWP helps you deliver. It creates a fully functional WordPress site in seconds using just a few inputs.

It’s perfect for kickstarting real projects, building quick demos, or testing plugin setups.

Instead of spending hours installing WordPress, choosing themes, and adding placeholder content, ZipWP handles it all.

The AI writes the copy, builds the layout, and even adds royalty-free images based on your niche.

ZipWP isn’t just for one-off sites or mockups.

You can manage multiple client projects from a single dashboard, test layouts, customize features safely, and refine sites before going live.

It’s like having your own private workspace where ideas can grow into polished, production-ready websites.

It’s one of the most efficient web design platforms for freelancers.

Curious how ZipWP stacks up against traditional hosting? Check out this ZipWP vs. Hostinger comparison to see the real difference.

Key Features:

• Instantly builds WordPress sites with AI-generated layouts and content
• Includes high-quality, royalty-free images and page copy
• Lets you save and reuse custom blueprints for faster future builds
• Integrates smoothly with themes and plugins like Astra and Elementor

Pricing: Free to start. Pro plans begin at $16.99/month.

2. Netlify

If you’re building static sites with tools like 11ty, Hugo, or good old HTML/CSS, Netlify makes publishing them feel like magic.

You don’t need to set up servers, mess with FTP uploads, or deal with complicated backend tech.

Just connect your GitHub (or GitLab/Bitbucket) repo, and Netlify automatically builds and deploys your site every time you make an update.

It’s perfect for freelance web designers who want to impress clients with fast, secure websites without diving into backend complexity.

If something breaks? You can roll back to a previous working version instantly, like an undo button for your entire site.

Key Features:

• Automatic deploys from Git with every code push
• Free SSL (HTTPS) for client trust and security
• Global CDN helps your site load fast everywhere
• Built-in form handling without writing backend code

Pricing: Free for individual projects. Paid plans start at $19/month with team and advanced build features.

3. Webflow

If you’ve ever felt stuck between coding by hand or settling for a rigid template, Webflow is your way out.

It lets you design right on the screen, exactly how you imagine, and quietly writes clean, responsive code for you behind the scenes.

You can build custom websites that look professional and feel unique, without spending hours tweaking HTML or waiting on a developer.

It’s a game-changer for freelancers. You stay in control, move faster, and impress clients with modern, interactive sites that don’t look like anyone else’s.

Key Features:

• Drag and drop design with real-time clean code export
• Built-in CMS for blogs, projects, or dynamic content
• Fully responsive design controls with visual breakpoints
• Visual animations and interactions without writing JavaScript

Pricing: Free to build. Paid site plans start at $14/month, CMS plans from $23/month.

4. Wix Studio/Wix ADI

When a client needs a polished website fast but doesn’t have a huge budget, Wix Studio and Wix ADI make your life a whole lot easier.

Instead of writing code or wrestling with clunky templates, you can build something that looks custom and works beautifully in no time.

Wix Studio gives you design flexibility with full control over layout, responsiveness, and animations.

Wix ADI uses AI to quickly generate a clean, professional site from a few simple inputs.

Together, they let you work faster, stay creative, and deliver a site your clients can manage on their own.

Key Features:

• Visual builder with advanced layout and animation control
• AI-powered starter sites based on client answers (Wix ADI)
• Built-in CMS for editable blogs, products, and service pages
• Native tools for bookings, stores, events, and more

Pricing: Free to start. Premium plans start at $17/month.

Design, Mockup and UI Tools

Whether you’re working solo or sharing designs with clients, these tools help you stay aligned with modern web design trends and make every project feel intentional.

5. Figma

Figma is a lifesaver when you’re juggling multiple clients and tight deadlines.

Instead of sending endless screenshots back and forth, you can invite your client to access the design file. They can see your changes live, leave comments, and approve tweaks on the spot.

Whether you’re building a quick wireframe or a polished mockup, Figma keeps everything in one place – no installs, no confusing file versions.

It’s also perfect for handing off projects to developers, since your designs stay clean, organized, and easy to interpret.

Key Features:

• Design and edit alongside clients or teammates in real time in your browser
• Create interactive prototypes to walk clients through ideas before development
• Use Auto Layout to speed up responsive designs for mobile and tablet
• Build and reuse design elements across projects to stay consistent and efficient

Pricing: Free for individuals. Pro plans start at $12 per editor/month.

6. Canva

As a freelance web designer, your work doesn’t stop at the website. Clients often need matching social media graphics, email banners, lead magnets, or pitch decks to go along with their new site.

Instead of jumping into complex tools like Photoshop or Illustrator, Canva lets you create extra visuals quickly and easily.

Its drag and drop interface and readymade templates help you match client branding and deliver a complete, professional package, even on a tight deadline.

Key Features:

• Browse and customize thousands of design templates for web and print
• Use drag and drop tools with built-in access to stock images and icons
• Stay consistent with saved logos, fonts, and colors using Brand Kits
• Speed up design with tools like Magic Resize and background remover

Pricing: Free plan available. Pro starts at $4.50 per month.

7. Google Fonts / Google Fonts Helper

Typography plays a huge role in how a website feels, and your clients will absolutely notice when it looks polished.

But choosing fonts that are stylish, fast-loading, and safe to use across all browsers can get tricky fast.

Google Fonts makes it easy.

It provides a massive library of professional fonts that you can add to your site in seconds. No downloads, no worrying about licenses, and no file conversions.

You can even use tools like Google Webfonts Helper to self-host them for extra speed and privacy.

Key Features:

• Choose from hundreds of open-source fonts, free for commercial use
• Copy one line of code to integrate fonts directly into your project
• Fonts load quickly through Google’s fast, global CDN
• Use Google Fonts Helper to host locally for better performance and SEO

Pricing: 100% free to use.

8. Wireframe.cc/MockFlow/Balsamiq

Before diving into colors and typography, it’s smart to make sure you’re on the same page as your client when it comes to layout.

That’s where wireframing tools like Wireframe.cc, Balsamiq, and MockFlow come in.

They help you quickly sketch out the structure of a website without getting caught up in design details.

These simple blueprints make it easy to show clients the plan early, get feedback, and avoid time-wasting redesigns down the road. It’s a smoother, smarter way to start a web project.

Key Features:

• Drag and drop interface for quick layout ideas and page structures
• Minimal visual styling to keep the focus on content placement and flow
• Built-in UI elements like menus, buttons, and form fields
• Easy sharing and feedback tools to involve clients early in the process

Pricing:

• Wireframe.cc starts free, with Pro from $16/month.
• Balsamiq starts from $9/month.
• MockFlow has a free plan; Pro starts at $14/month.

9. Coolors/Fontjoy

Picking the right colors and fonts can be surprisingly hard, especially when a client wants something modern but can’t explain what that means.

That’s where tools like Coolors and Fontjoy come in.

Instead of second-guessing every design choice, these tools help you generate stunning color palettes and font pairings in seconds.

You can show clients multiple options, stay consistent with their branding, and move from moodboard to mockup without getting stuck in the details.

It’s like having a design assistant that never runs out of ideas!

Key Features:

• Generate and fine-tune color palettes with one click or spacebar tap
• AI-powered suggestions based on real websites, photos, or art
• Match fonts for headers and body text that feel cohesive
• Export palettes and font combos in CSS, HEX, or PNG formats

Pricing:

• Coolors starts free, with Pro from $3/month.
• Fontjoy is free to use.

10. Behance / Dribbble

As a freelance web designer, your portfolio is your proof. But keeping your work tucked away in a folder won’t help you land new clients.

Platforms like Behance and Dribbble give you a place to proudly display your projects and get them seen by the right people.

Whether you’re sharing a detailed case study or a single screen you’re proud of, they make it easy to showcase your skills, build credibility, and connect with clients who are actively looking for designers like you.

You can even turn your LinkedIn profile into a WordPress portfolio to make a lasting impression and show up where clients are already looking.

They also help you stay inspired, spot emerging trends, and grow your reputation in the design world.

Need inspiration for your own site? Here are some standout personal website examples to help you get started.

Key Features:

• Publish case studies or snapshots that highlight your creative process
• Reach a global audience browsing for design talent
• Explore trends and get inspired by top-performing designs
• Build connections, get feedback, and grow your professional network

Pricing:

• Behance is completely free.
• Dribbble offers a free plan, with Pro starting at $8/month.

Code and Development Tools

Even with tools like Webflow or ZipWP, basic coding helps you tweak layouts and customize designs.

It also makes you more valuable to clients and opens doors to better-paying projects.

11. HTML / CSS / JavaScript

If you’re working with HTML, CSS, or JavaScript, even just tweaking a WordPress theme, Visual Studio Code (VS Code) can seriously upgrade your workflow.

It’s more than a text editor. It’s like having a coding sidekick that keeps your projects clean, organized, and moving fast.

Whether it’s typos, forgotten tags, or constant app switching, VS Code helps eliminate them by offering a smart, all-in-one workspace.

With live previews, helpful code suggestions, and built-in version control, you’ll spend less time fixing bugs and more time building polished websites.

It’s an essential tool for freelancers who want to work faster and look more professional doing it.

Key Features:

• Autocompletes HTML, CSS, and JavaScript as you type to reduce errors
• Built-in Git tools help you track changes and stay organized
• Extensions for everything from Tailwind to live previews
• Integrated terminal keeps you in one place while coding

Pricing: Completely free to download and use.

13. GitHub + GitHub Copilot

If you’ve ever broken a client’s site and wished you could hit “undo,” GitHub is about to become your best friend.

It keeps a full history of every code change you make, so you can always go back if something goes wrong. It also makes it easier to test new features without touching the live site.

Pair that with GitHub Copilot, an AI assistant that suggests code as you type, and you’ve got a serious boost to your productivity.

Whether you’re stuck on a JavaScript function or unsure how to start, Copilot helps you move forward faster and with more confidence.

Key Features:

• GitHub tracks every code change and lets you roll back to earlier versions
• Secure cloud storage makes your projects accessible from anywhere
• Copilot suggests real-time code completions inside VS Code
• It helps explain tricky code and offers fixes while you work

Pricing:

• GitHub is free for individuals.
• GitHub Copilot starts at $4/user/month.

14. Google Chrome / Safari

Let’s talk about two tools you already use daily but may not be using to their full potential, Google Chrome and Safari.

They’re packed with developer tools that can make your life much easier when building and testing client websites.

Imagine you’ve launched a new layout and something looks off. Instead of guessing what’s wrong, you can inspect the element, tweak styles live, and figure it out fast.

Whether it’s fixing spacing or checking mobile responsiveness, these browsers help you spot and solve problems quickly and accurately.

Key Features:

• Inspect and tweak HTML/CSS live to fix layout issues
• Catch JavaScript errors or test snippets in the console
• Preview your site on different screen sizes and devices
• Track loading times to improve page speed and performance

Pricing: Completely free, built into Chrome and Safari.

Image Optimization Tools

Whether your client sends 10MB photos from their DSLR or you’re resizing logos for retina screens, image optimization tools help keep things light, fast, and crystal-clear.

15. TinyPNG / Compressor.io

High-quality images can really elevate a website, but if they’re too large, they slow everything down. When you’re building a client’s site, speed matters, both for user experience and for SEO.

TinyPNG and Compressor.io help you strike that perfect balance.

Instead of wrestling with Photoshop or sending images back and forth, you just upload them and compress them while keeping the visual quality nearly identical.

That means faster load times, happier clients, and less technical hassle during revisions.

It’s an easy fix to a common problem that can otherwise hurt performance and client satisfaction.

Key Features:

• Compresses large images without noticeable quality loss
• Supports formats like PNG, JPG, WebP, GIF, and SVG
• Drag and drop interface makes optimization effortless
• Batch upload saves time on image-heavy projects

Pricing:

• TinyPNG offers a free plan for up to 20 images per batch. Pro starts at $39/year.
• Compressor.io has a free version and a Pro plan starting at $50/year.

16. CloudConvert

If you’ve ever worked on a client project, you know how chaotic file formats can get. One day you’re handed a logo in PDF, the next it’s a font in an outdated format, or a video that needs compressing before it hits the homepage.

That’s where CloudConvert becomes a real lifesaver.

It handles all those tricky conversions, images, documents, audio, video, and more, without installing bulky software or digging through converter sites.

Just upload, select your desired output, and you’re done. It’s faster, safer, and far more reliable than trying to handle everything manually or with random free tools.

Key Features:

• Convert 200+ formats, including PNG, SVG, MP4, PDF, and fonts
• Customize quality, resolution, and metadata for precise output
• Import/export directly from Google Drive or Dropbox
• Runs entirely in your browser – no software to install

Pricing: Free for up to 25 conversions per day. Paid plans start at $9 per month.

SEO and Quality Assurance Tools

A great-looking site still needs to be fast, SEO-friendly, and mobile-ready. These tools help you test and optimize performance, no SEO degree required.

17. Google Search Console

Once a client’s website goes live, your job isn’t over. You need to know how it’s performing, especially in Google Search.

Google Search Console shows you whether your site is being indexed, which keywords are driving traffic, and if any technical issues are hurting visibility.

Instead of guessing why a page isn’t showing up or waiting for your client to notice something’s off, you’ll have real data at your fingertips.

It’s far more effective than relying on generic SEO tools or doing manual checks, and it gives you the confidence to back up your results.

Key Features:

• Track which keywords bring visitors and how your pages rank over time
• Identify indexing problems, broken links, and crawl errors before they affect traffic
• Inspect individual URLs to fix visibility issues and request reindexing
• Monitor site speed and performance through Core Web Vitals insights

Pricing: Totally free from Google.

18. Google Lighthouse

You’ve built a site that looks great, but is it actually performing well behind the scenes?

That’s where Google Lighthouse becomes your secret weapon. It runs a full audit of any page and tells you exactly what’s slowing it down, what’s hurting SEO, or where accessibility needs work.

Whether you’re prepping a client site for launch or trying to improve an existing one, Lighthouse gives you data you can act on.

It’s far more reliable than guesswork and easier than cobbling together insights from five different tools.

Key Features:

• Test page speed, interactivity, and loading issues on both mobile and desktop
• Flag accessibility issues like low contrast or missing image alt text
• Check basic SEO readiness like mobile-friendliness and metadata usage
• Review site health using best practice and performance benchmarks

Pricing: Completely free and built into Chrome.

19. Responsive Design Checker

​When you’re building websites for clients, looking good on every screen size isn’t optional, it’s expected.

Unless you own a dozen different devices, checking how a design behaves on all of them can be a nightmare.

Responsive Design Checker can help. Just pop in your URL, and you’ll instantly see how your site looks on phones, tablets, and desktops.

It’s way faster than shrinking your browser window or hoping media queries hold up. This tool helps you catch awkward layouts or broken elements before your client ever sees them.

Key Features:

• Instantly preview your site across phones, tablets, and desktops
• Test custom screen sizes to catch hard-to-spot breakpoints
• Switch between portrait and landscape views with one click
• Interact with your live site to check menus, forms, and functionality

Pricing: Most tools are free to use online with no installation required.

20. W3C Validator

You’ve built a site that looks great in your browser but what about everyone else’s?

A small coding mistake, like a missing tag or misused element, might go unnoticed until it breaks something.

W3C Validator scans your HTML and CSS to catch structural issues you might miss and helps ensure your code follows modern web standards.

Instead of spending hours troubleshooting layout bugs, this tool gives you a clear, line-by-line report to fix things fast.

It’s like a second set of eyes that never misses a detail.

Key Features:

• Validate HTML or CSS by pasting code or entering your site URL
• Instantly spot errors like missing tags, outdated attributes, or broken structure
• Align your site with W3C web standards for better performance and compatibility
• Improve accessibility and SEO by fixing issues that search engines and screen readers care about

Pricing: Completely free to use on the official W3C website.

Freelance Business Management Tools

As a freelance web designer, you handle everything from design to invoices. The following tools help keep your workflow organized and your projects running smoothly.

21. Trello / ClickUp / Notion

When you’re juggling multiple web design projects, staying organized is key.

Tools like Trello, ClickUp, and Notion help you manage tasks, timelines, and client communication in one place.

Instead of messy notes or forgotten to-dos, you get a visual system to track each step, from onboarding to final delivery. You can log client feedback, set deadlines, attach design files, and reuse templates for future projects.

Whether you prefer drag and drop boards or flexible pages, these tools give you clarity and control.

Key Features:

• Track tasks visually with boards, lists, or pages
• Set deadlines and reminders to stay on schedule
• Store client notes, files, and updates in one place
• Create templates for repeatable processes like revisions or launches

Pricing: Free plans available. Paid options start at $5/month.

22. Loom

The way you communicate can make or break a client relationship. Loom is a game-changer for those moments when typing feedback or explanations just won’t cut it.

Instead of writing long emails or struggling to find a meeting time, you can quickly record your screen and voice to walk your client through anything, from design decisions to CMS tutorials.

It adds clarity, saves time, and feels more personal.

Whether you’re reviewing wireframes or handing off a finished site, Loom helps you stay efficient and professional without the stress of live calls or back-and-forth emails.

Key Features:

• Record your screen, webcam, or both with one click
• Instantly share videos with a link, no downloads required
• Let clients leave time-stamped comments directly on the video
• Use drawing tools to highlight key points as you record

Pricing: Free plan available. Paid plans start at $12.50/month.

23. Zoom / Google Meet / Slack

Whether you’re explaining a design decision, presenting a mockup, or chasing feedback, tools like Zoom, Google Meet, and Slack keep you connected and in control.

Instead of getting lost in long email chains or juggling texts and calls, you can hop on a quick video chat, send a link in Slack, or share your screen to walk a client through updates.

They help you look more professional, move projects forward faster, and build stronger client relationships.

If you’re looking for more ways to attract high-quality clients and improve communication, this guide on landing web design clients is a must-read.

Key Features:

• Host video calls with screen sharing for walkthroughs and live feedback
• Create dedicated Slack channels to keep project communications organized
• Send quick messages or files instantly to reduce inbox clutter
• Connect calendars, file storage, and task apps to streamline your workflow

Pricing:

• Zoom starts free with Pro plans at $15.99/month.
• Slack Pro starts at $7.25/month.
• Google Meet is free with Google Workspace.

24. Wave / PayPal / Square

Getting paid shouldn’t feel like pulling teeth. Whether you’re launching a client’s site or finishing a round of revisions, tools like Wave, PayPal, and Square help you handle the money side of freelancing without the stress.

Instead of cobbling together invoices in Word or reminding clients over and over, these platforms let you send sleek, branded invoices, accept payments online, and track everything in one place.

It saves you hours, helps you look more professional, and makes the whole payment process smoother for both you and your clients.

Key Features:

• Create polished, branded invoices in minutes and send them via email
• Accept payments via credit card, bank transfer, or digital wallets like PayPal
• Track who paid, who hasn’t, and set auto-reminders for overdue invoices
• Export records for taxes or bookkeeping without the spreadsheet headache

Pricing:

• Wave is free.
• PayPal and Square charge transaction fees (around 2.9%) but no monthly cost.

25. PandaDoc / Contract Killer

When you’re working on client projects, a good contract is your safety net. It sets the rules, protects your time, and helps prevent the awkward “we never agreed on that” conversations.

Tools like PandaDoc and Contract Killer make this part of freelancing a whole lot easier.

Contract Killer gives you a solid, easy-to-understand template tailored for web designers, so you don’t have to start from scratch.

PandaDoc takes things further by letting you build, send, and track polished proposals and contracts with digital signatures.

It’s a smoother, more professional alternative to back-and-forth PDFs or email agreements.

If you’re unsure what to charge or how to present your pricing, this guide to web design costs will help you break it down with clarity and confidence.

Key Features:

• Define clear deliverables, timelines, and payment terms to avoid confusion
• Collect legally binding e-signatures without printing or scanning
• Use branded templates for proposals and agreements
• Get real-time insights on when clients view or engage with documents

Pricing:

• Contract Killer is free.
• PandaDoc has a free plan with paid plans starting at $19/month.

Final Thoughts: Create Your Ultimate Starter Kit for 2025

Our ultimate toolkit is all you need to start with confidence as a freelance web designer.

If you’re looking for an all-in-one solution to build and manage WordPress sites with ease, ZipWP should be your go-to. It handles setup, content, and layout in seconds, freeing you up to focus on design.

For full creative control without code, Webflow lets you visually build custom, responsive sites that stand out.

To keep your projects on track, ClickUp makes it easy to manage tasks, deadlines, and feedback in one place.

Whether you’re building your first portfolio or scaling up client work, this hand-picked stack of tools for freelance web designers saves time, reduces stress, and makes you look like a pro from day one.

Ready to build, grow, and thrive?