
In the world of premium digital asset marketplaces, two popular platforms stand out for their market leading benefits and offerings: Creative Market and Envato. With each catering to the diverse needs of designers, developers, and the creative professional alike, providing a range of features and resources. Although similar on the surface It's important to know what each have available and are offering so lets review their features, pricing, and licensing differences
Overview of Envato

Envato is renowned for its extensive library of digital products, including stock footage, audio files, web templates and more and allows users to access a vast collection of assets for a monthly fee. This model is particularly appealing for those who require a continuous supply of creative materials.
Overview of Creative Market

Creative Market is a thriving online marketplace that empowers independent creators to sell a wide variety of design assets. From stunning graphics and versatile templates to unique fonts and high-quality photography, this platform is designed for both professionals and hobbyists seeking distinctive resources to elevate their work.
Feature Comparison
Feature | Creative Market | Envato |
---|---|---|
Asset Variety | Graphics, templates, stock videos, fonts, and more | Stock video footage, audio and SFX, themes, templates, and more |
Payment Structure | Pay-per-item with a subscription discount offering | Unlimited downloads Subscription model |
Licensing Flexibility | Non-exclusive licensing | Standard and extended licenses; some exclusivity |
Support and Updates | Varies by seller | Regular updates and customer support |
Pricing Insights
The pricing strategies of these platforms are worth looking at as they reflect their distinct approaches to serving customers. Creative Market allows users to purchase assets individually, while Envato operates on an unlimited downloads subscription basis, appealing to those who need frequent access to a variety of resources.
Pricing on Envato
- Envato offers an unlimited downloads subscription for $16.50/month for their yearly plan or $33/month (billed monthly).
- Individual items on Envato Market can range from $5 to $100+, depending on the complexity and demand.
Get Envato for as little as $11.55 a month with this special exclusive offer!
Pricing on Creative Market
- Individual items typically has a range from $2 to $100+, depending on the asset type and quality.
- No subscription fees; users pay only for the items they choose. Monthly and Yearly membership options are available offering discounts and credits towards the assets you want.
Licensing Considerations
Understanding licensing is crucial when selecting a platform for digital assets. Creative Market provides flexible licensing options, allowing creators to sell their work across multiple platforms without restrictions. In contrast, Envato's licensing agreements may impose certain limitations on the use of assets, particularly for exclusive items.
Exploring Alternatives
Here are several alternatives and competitors to Creative Market and Envato
- Shutterstock: Known for its extensive library of stock photos and videos.
- Pond5: Specializes in stock footage and audio files.
- Adobe Stock: Provides a wide range of stock elements
Pros and Cons of Each Platform
Platform | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|
Creative Market | Wide variety of unique assets from independent creators. No subscription fees; pay only for what you need. Flexible licensing allows selling on multiple platforms. Regular promotions and discounts on selected items. | Quality and support can vary by seller. Higher costs for individual items compared to subscription models. Limited selection of certain asset types. |
Envato | Extensive library of digital products across various categories. Subscription model provides access to a vast collection of assets. Regular updates and customer support for items. Strong community and resources for creators. | Subscription fees may not be cost-effective for occasional users. Licensing can be restrictive for some assets. Quality may vary across different items and authors. |
Key Considerations for Choosing a Platform
When deciding between platforms, it's important to consider the following factors:
- Type of Assets Needed: If you require a specific type of asset, such as stock footage or website themes, check which platform offers a better selection.
- Budget: Evaluate your budget and determine whether a pay-per-item model or a subscription service aligns better with your purchasing habits.
- Licensing Requirements: Understand the licensing terms of each platform to ensure they meet your project needs.
- Quality and Support: Consider the level of support and quality assurance you expect from the assets you purchase.
Final Thoughts
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, staying informed about the best platforms for your creative needs is essential. Whether you choose Creative Market for its unique offerings or Envato for its very extensive library and unlimited download subscriptions, both platforms can significantly enhance your projects and streamline your workflow.
What did you think of this comparison of creative market and envato, including features, pricing, and licensing differences