In the world of desktop publishing, Adobe has long been a dominant force. Two of its most significant offerings—PageMaker and InDesign—have shaped the way professionals design brochures, magazines, flyers, and other print materials. But with the advent of new technology and evolving design needs, the question arises: PageMaker vs InDesign—what’s the difference, and which is best for modern design?

This guide provides an in-depth look at both software platforms, their types, use cases, and a detailed comparison to help users make an informed decision.

What is PageMaker?

PageMaker was one of the earliest desktop publishing applications developed by Aldus Corporation in 1985 and later acquired by Adobe. It enabled users to layout and design printed publications using a graphical interface.

Key Features of PageMaker

  • Support for text and graphics on multiple pages
  • Integration with early Adobe products like Illustrator and Photoshop
  • Limited support for newer image formats and complex layouts
  • Compatibility primarily with Windows XP and earlier Mac OS versions

Types of PageMaker Usage

PageMaker was primarily used in the following types of design projects:

  1. Newsletters and Brochures
  2. Posters and Flyers
  3. Academic and Business Reports
  4. Books and Manuscripts (basic layout)

What is InDesign?

InDesign is Adobe’s successor to PageMaker and is now the industry standard for desktop publishing. Launched in 1999, Adobe InDesign supports a broader range of design needs, offering professional-grade tools for both print and digital publishing.

Key Features of InDesign

  • Precise control over typography and layout
  • Support for interactive PDFs and digital eBooks
  • Seamless integration with Creative Cloud apps
  • Advanced prepress and print preparation tools
  • Live collaboration and cloud storage options

Types of InDesign Usage

InDesign is ideal for a wide array of publication formats, such as:

  1. Magazines and Newspapers
  2. Interactive PDFs and eBooks
  3. Marketing Collateral (brochures, catalogs)
  4. Corporate Documents (annual reports, white papers)
  5. User Manuals and Guides
  6. Social Media Layouts (modern applications)

PageMaker vs InDesign: Head-to-Head Comparison

FeaturePageMakerInDesign
DeveloperAdobe (originally Aldus)Adobe Systems
Release Year1985 (discontinued in 2004)1999 (actively updated)
Platform SupportWindows XP, Mac OS ClassicWindows 10+, macOS
User InterfaceBasic and outdatedModern, intuitive, customizable
File Format.pmd.indd, .idml, PDF, EPUB
Typography ToolsLimitedAdvanced OpenType support
Print OutputBasic CMYK supportHigh-end prepress & print compatibility
Digital PublishingNot supportedFull support (eBooks, PDFs, web layouts)
Collaboration ToolsNoneAdobe Cloud & shared libraries
Learning CurveEasier for beginners (now outdated)Moderate; rich features and tutorials

Why PageMaker is Now Obsolete

Although PageMaker was revolutionary in the 1980s and 90s, it has been officially discontinued since 2004. It does not support modern file formats, lacks compatibility with today’s operating systems, and is not suitable for professional publishing by current standards.

Why InDesign is the Better Choice Today

For designers, publishers, and marketers looking to produce high-quality print and digital documents, InDesign is far superior. It’s scalable, updated regularly, and supports collaboration and automation—features that are essential in today’s fast-paced design environments.

Choosing Between PageMaker vs InDesign

For anyone considering which tool to use, the answer is clear:

  • Choose InDesign if you need modern publishing capabilities, digital formats, collaboration tools, and robust layout options.
  • Avoid PageMaker unless you’re working with legacy documents that must be accessed using the original software.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is PageMaker still supported by Adobe?

No, Adobe officially discontinued PageMaker in 2004. It is no longer supported or updated and is not compatible with modern operating systems.

Can I open PageMaker files in InDesign?

InDesign CS6 was the last version to support importing PageMaker (.pmd) files. Newer versions no longer support this feature directly, so you may need to use an older version or convert the files using intermediate steps.

What is the difference between PageMaker vs InDesign in terms of usability?

PageMaker has a simpler interface but is outdated and lacks modern features. InDesign offers a rich set of tools for layout, typography, digital publishing, and collaboration, making it more suitable for professional use.

Is InDesign hard to learn for former PageMaker users?

InDesign has a steeper learning curve due to its advanced features, but Adobe offers many tutorials. Users familiar with PageMaker will find some similarities in basic layout concepts.

What file types can InDesign export?

InDesign can export files in multiple formats, including PDF (print and interactive), EPUB, HTML, JPEG, PNG, and more, making it versatile for both print and digital media.

Is there a free version of InDesign?

Adobe offers a free trial of InDesign. However, full access requires a subscription via Adobe Creative Cloud.

Can I still download PageMaker legally?

No, Adobe no longer provides official downloads for PageMaker. Using unauthorized sources may expose users to security risks.

Final Thoughts

When comparing PageMaker vs InDesign, it becomes evident that InDesign is not just an upgrade—it’s a complete transformation in the way design professionals approach layout and publishing. PageMaker holds a nostalgic value, but InDesign is the tool built for today’s creative demands. Whether you’re crafting a digital magazine, a marketing brochure, or an interactive eBook, InDesign remains the most reliable and feature-rich platform available.

This page was last edited on 18 May 2025, at 12:31 pm