# Compare Design Flex vs RIB SpecLink 2026 | Capterra

> Unsure of what to choose? Check Capterra to compare RIB SpecLink and Design Flex based on pricing, features, product details, and verified reviews.

Source: https://www.capterra.com/compare/218525-267349/2020-Design-Live-vs-SpecLink

---

# RIB SpecLink vs Design Flex Features and Cost Comparison

Last updated March 13th, 2026

Provider data verified by our Software Research team, and reviews  
moderated by our Reviews Verification team.[Learn more](https://www.capterra.com/our-story/)

Your comparison:

RIB SpecLinkDesign Flex2/4 selected

[RIB SpecLink](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/)[4.5 (94)](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/reviews/)

[Design Flex](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/)[4.3 (354)](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/reviews/)

[## RIB SpecLink](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/)[4.5 (94)](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/reviews/)

Starting Price

Contact vendor

Value-for-Money

4.3

Functionality

4.2

Ease of Use

4.4

Customer Service

4.5

Reviews Sentiment

AI

RB

BM

Based on [94 reviews](#user-reviews)

Positive

88

Neutral

5

Negative

1

[## Design Flex](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/)[4.3 (354)](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/reviews/)

Starting Price

Contact vendor

Value-for-Money

3.9

Functionality

4.2

Ease of Use

4.1

Customer Service

4.3

Reviews Sentiment

KG

MG

Based on [354 reviews](#user-reviews)

Positive

295

Neutral

50

Negative

9

## Summary

* * *

Features in Architecture Software

15 / 50

Only RIB SpecLink

-   Customizable Reports
-   Customizable Templates
-   Data Import/Export

Best performer

19 / 50

Only Design Flex

-   Billing & Invoicing
-   Contact Management
-   Data Visualization

User satisfaction

User satisfaction

4.5

User reviews[94](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/reviews/)

Ease of use

4.4

Functionality

4.2

Value for money

4.3

Customer support

4.5

User satisfaction

4.3

User reviews[354](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/reviews/)

Ease of use

4.1

Functionality

4.2

Value for money

3.9

Customer support

4.3

Price starts from

Price starts from

\--

-   Free version
-   Free trial

Price starts from

\--

-   Free version
-   Free trial

Best for

Best for

RIB Software develops and sells innovative software tools for the architecture, engineering, and construction markets of North America.

Best for

Kitchen Designers Bathroom Designers Kitchen Remodelers Bathroom Remodelers Independent Designers Kitchen Dealers

## User reviews

Pros & cons

AI

Andrew I.

Vice President of Architectural Operations

> "However, the one that I feel differentiates Speclink from other programs is it actively encourages the development of specifications..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6429337)

MS

Michael S.

Director

> "Missing search and replace; inability to import sections into multiple projects; printing of individual sections with their table of..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6841985)

RB

Robert B.

Specifications Writer

> "Once a master is built it, it streamlines the editing process, allowing more experienced staff to guide new spec writers through the use of..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6429761)

LK

Laura K.

Project Team Coordinator

> "The header/footer function is a big downgrade from how it was in Speclink-E. Lately there are bugs with the software missing edits, missing..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6841492)

BM

Bethany M.

Project Manager

> "Provides a nice template for spec-writing, even offering suggestions, and makes it much less daunting and dry to go through."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6842510)

PP

Philip P.

Senior Architect

> "I need to check ALL the manufacturers data on the web, as I have found a number of the product model names/numbers listed in SpecLink..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6828292)

BP

Brad P.

Specification Leader

> "The built-in automatic updating, choice fields, intelligent linking and overall ease of use of the interface are the main reasons we made..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6841498)

IG

Ivy G.

Specifications Writer

> "Importing consultant sections for printing a project manual is also challenging, so I use a different product to assemble project manuals."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6841762)

BM

Bethany M.

Project Manager

> "Also appreciate you can create projects within the program that encompass different specs, so you can keep things organized."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6842510)

HW

Hope W.

Marketing Manager

> "The interface takes some getting used to and I wish we could see whole job plans or specifications when we are specified on a job because..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6429456)

JD

Janet D.

Sole Proprietor

> "I am finding that working in other master systems, such as MasterSpec with VisiSpecs and Conspectus Cloud is more efficient, easier to..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6429323)

KT

Katrina T.

Senior Construction Administration Coordination, Controller

> "One issue we have is that the table of contents doesn't always automatically update when we add or remove a section."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6841462)

MO

Megan O.

Architect

> "Overall, I appreciate the ease of using the software, the functionality of it, ability to add User notes, import reference standards, ease..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6429264)

JG

Josh G.

Architectural Specifier

> "The specification strategies on some sections are cumbersome and difficult to navigate, i.e. they really don't help much."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6841804)

MG

Maggie G.

Design Coordinator

> "We are able to import specifications across projects easily and access that information quickly."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6820010)

PF

Perry F.

Project Designer

> "When I use typical symbols such as "&," the software is confused and substitutes words that don't make sense."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6841540)

NK

Naveen K.

Senior Fire Protection Engineer

> "Very good, user friendly, very detail with what needed to be covered in the spec's, matches with the floor plan, schedules and details from..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6841684)

BP

Brad P.

Specification Leader

> "Network slowdown or browser memory limitations sometimes reduce performance."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6841498)

KT

Katrina T.

Senior Construction Administration Coordination, Controller

> "We appreciate the automated updates and the ability to accept specific updates."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6841462)

BH

Bruce H.

Senior Mechanical Engineer Industrial Buildings and Facilities

> "Additionally, if you are working in more specialized projects, not all applicable specifications are available. "

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6841456)

NM

Nicholas M.

Specification Writer

> "Many tasks are accomplished much more easily than the old-fashioned way already, and I know that the development team is actively working..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6820044)

MO

Megan O.

Architect

> "I don't know what causes the glitches so am not aware of how to avoid this other than to create a User paragraph any time there are changes..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6429264)

AI

Andrew I.

Vice President of Architectural Operations

> "It also is a great tool to help younger designers become more thoughtful and intentioned as they can use Speclink as a great resource for..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6429337)

BH

Bruce H.

Senior Mechanical Engineer Industrial Buildings and Facilities

> "I am not sure if it is a permissions issues but some specifications are not accessible for use with a project. "

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6841456)

KT

Katrina T.

Senior Construction Administration Coordination, Controller

> "We also love that all of our specs are in one place, which makes it easy to import sections from other projects."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6841462)

JG

Josh G.

Architectural Specifier

> "I find it sometimes difficult to customize spec sections to our needs."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6841804)

AR

Adam R.

Project Engineer

> "Would be nice if could have a process for spec deviations internal to the software."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6820017)

AR

Adam R.

Project Engineer

> "Printing/exporting specs can sometimes be cumbersome."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6820017)

LW

Leana W.

Admin

> "Allowing us to dig deeper on how to better adapt and evolve to our ever changing industry."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6820056)

LL

Leo L.

Project Architect

> "Overrides can be difficult especially with source and target linking. "

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6841469)

DK

DONALD K.

Master Construction Specifier - Architect

> "Output into any PageFormat and automated TOC's and reports, greatly reduces admin time."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6362058)

EW

Emma W.

Interior Designer

> "It's hard to know what's missing from my spec with so few options in the base."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6841436)

SM

Susan M.

Project Coordinator

> "The software is pretty easy to figure out, but we attended the Cloud training session once we migrated to the Cloud version, and that..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6820456)

DW

Drew W.

Associate Principal

> "This can be annoying at times, but is a small issue in the larger scope of writing specifications"

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6841649)

ST

Santos T.

Designer

> "The ease of adding/removing sections based on project specific requirements is much better than the manual way of reviewing specifications..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6429191)

RB

Robert B.

Specifications Writer

> "The files from RIB are all incomplete (still need linking, if nothing else), and the logic of some Sections is confusing."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6429761)

AC

Amy C.

Senior Project Team Coordinator

> "It was a bit time consuming to get our firm's master specification Sections initially set up in the program, but it's a big time saver once..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6362049)

DK

DONALD K.

Master Construction Specifier - Architect

> "Training other design professionals who are uncomfortable with the concise text and want to add unnecessary language to their Sections."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6362058)

JV

Jessiv V.

Project Coordinator

> "The linked features that make it easier to reference other specifications."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6820025)

SS

Stan S.

Engineer

> "Have to spend hours and hours trying to figure things out. Need more plain english instructions and to avoid utilizing different..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6430953)

LL

Leo L.

Project Architect

> "It is easily customizable to match your clients formatting. "

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6841469)

SL

Sarah L.

Architect

> "Speed of operation, issues logging in at times, sometimes there seems to be a general lag that can cause hang-ups."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6429217)

FK

Frank K.

architect, spec writer

> "There is a bit of an initial learning curve, but once mastered, it is a very easy program on which to write very thorough specifications."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6841458)

CR

Casey R.

Administrative Assistant

> "network drops sometimes and it makes us have to wait to print our projects"

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6429188)

PF

Perry F.

Project Designer

> "I am delighted with the concept of exclusion and inclusion in specification writing."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6841540)

JD

Janet D.

Sole Proprietor

> "Technical support that does not understand specification writing and the design profession needs. "

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6429323)

AC

Amy C.

Senior Project Team Coordinator

> "Overall, despite the frustrations noted, it's a decent program. As it stands, I give it a solid 3.5 stars out of five, if I had to be truly..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6362049)

HB

Helen B.

Architect

> "Slow data base sometimes. "

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6841453)

LL

Leo L.

Project Architect

> "Speclink has made my job as a specification writer much easier. "

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6841469)

TS

Timothy S.

Mechanical Engineer, IT Manager

> "It sometimes takes awhile to load when the user is checking lots of sections."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6429549)

RT

Rebecca T.

Office Manager

> "With each new release, it gets better and continues to meet the needs of our Firm."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6841487)

RR

Richard R.

Director of Building Envelope Performance

> "Productive but sometime frustrating with having to add in additional subsections to the specifications."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6431554)

DG

David G.

Architect - Specifier

> "I can write specs more efficiently."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6820445)

MS

Marcus S.

Senior Designer-Leader

> "absolutely inconsistent and much of the time does not work---why cant you include instructions on that?..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6429577)

BL

BarbaraJean L.

Director of Interior Design

> "I would give RIB 4.5 stars because of the ease of use and edit capabilities."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6821531)

IS

Ian S.

Mechanical Engineer

> "It can be very slow when working with large spec sections"

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6429200)

KT

Katrina T.

Senior Construction Administration Coordination, Controller

> "We just renewed our software for 2 more years and plan to use SpecLink for the foreseeable future!"

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6841462)

SD

Steve D.

Sr. Architect, Specifier, Technical Dir.

> "Header & footer “tools” are still a bit awkward."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6429765)

KM

Kevin M.

Engineer

> "Ease of access and sharing with different organizations It is relatively easy to setup the projects and share."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6820196)

JK

Justin K.

Owner

> "Some of the automation is clunky. "

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6429798)

LL

Leo L.

Project Architect

> "It is pretty easy to import spec's from other projects as well."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6841469)

JD

Janet D.

Sole Proprietor

> "It appears that masters are not being updated and expanded any more."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6429323)

JK

Justin K.

Owner

> "Good automation of some of the input items that work through the system."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6429798)

SS

Stan S.

Engineer

> "Some features are simply too difficult. But the process was way too difficult. "

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6430953)

LW

Leana W.

Admin

> "It's been great, the support team is very accommodating and conveniently available when we need them."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6820056)

JK

Justin K.

Owner

> "Tracking changes is not easy. "

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#Capterra___6429798)

[View Reviews](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/reviews/)

KG

Karly G.

President

> "What I like most is its flexibility and the ability to quickly build detailed layouts that clients can easily visualize."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___7115676)

KG

Karly G.

President

> "Rendering can also be inconsistent, and while it’s good for general visuals, it doesn’t always deliver the level of realism..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___7115676)

MG

Michelle G.

Kitchen design Manager

> "Mostly, I like the rendering quality and the ability to plug in full cabinetry manufacture catalogs for quick design and pricing"

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6882450)

MB

Matt B.

Corp Co-Ord of K and B Displays and Training

> "I don't like that the colors have been removed from the Icons, in V13 it was easier to identify them as the new colors are very..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6363780)

LM

Lindsay M.

Cabinet Design

> "I also love the 3D renderings, as they have helped our clients really visualize what the outcome will be in their space."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___7078472)

KG

Karly G.

President

> "Some of the features feel less intuitive than they should be, requiring extra steps."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___7115676)

IM

Isha M.

Accountant

> "The high-quality 3D rendering capabilities were impressive and beneficial for client presentations. Although there were..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6384584)

CW

Crystal W.

Owner

> "The software still has some issues with running slow when a lot of walls or sketchup items are in the file."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6835518)

MS

Matt S.

Kitchen and Bath Design

> "The ease of adjusting heights, tilt, depth of field, etc. make showing a design fun."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___7079801)

CC

Cheryl C.

Lead Designer

> "At $2,500 per year, having to pay extra for assistance feels out of step with the investment."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___7091852)

CC

Cheryl C.

Lead Designer

> "This Software delivers a reliable intuitive platform that makes detailed design easy and work fast and accurate."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___7091852)

BM

Barb M.

Kitchen and Bath Designer

> "None of our designers have upgraded to the latest version V14.2 because of reports of the instability/ crashing or lack of..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6497186)

IM

Isha M.

Accountant

> "Additionally, the software's flexibility, seamless integration with other tools, and cloud-based access significantly improved..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6384584)

BM

Barb M.

Kitchen and Bath Designer

> "The inability to edit size and color and textures of cloud base decorative items."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6497186)

DC

Danitza C.

interior designer and project manager

> "love the countertop option, and most of the time use the SAMPLE-F base catalogs because I can change sizzes easily if I need it..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6378557)

SP

Shanna P.

Owner

> "Cloud items are slow to add to a design and often corrupt your file, making a design unusable"

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6267740)

SP

Shanna P.

Owner

> "The only pro about this software is the ability to download cabinet brand specific catalogs with pricing."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6267740)

SK

Stacey K.

Interior Designer

> "Freezing and crashing, difficulty with updates and reaching customer service and the cost of the software is gouging."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#SoftwareAdvice___6419039)

LM

Lindsay M.

Cabinet Design

> "I think this program is great and has a lot of amazing qualities and capabilities for new and experienced users alike."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___7078472)

JH

Jennifer H.

Sales Manager

> "Sometimes I have trouble reading catalogs or material lists I need to zoom in on other areas other than the work space"

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6396837)

KB

Kristin B.

Designer-owner

> "It also allows me to draw in the actual appliances my client is purchasing, which is nice as well."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6395562)

SP

Shanna P.

Owner

> "The most frustrating part is that 2020/Cyncly is aware their product needs improvement but won't do anything to address the..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6267740)

KB

Kristin B.

Designer-owner

> "It does render beautiful drawings once I go in and change all the cabinet colors."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6395562)

AC

Amber C.

Director of Design

> "The search feature for the cloud items is so much harder than previous versions, not very user friendly. "

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6363674)

LR

Leah R.

Owner

> "As a cabinet designer since 2005 this is the only software i have used that allows me to do it all from design and project..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___5069689)

EM

Eric M.

V.P. of Sales

> "Setting up cost and sell pricing is a little tricky. Or, it's possible I haven't seen the best tutorial on it yet."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6664931)

TD

Tanya D.

President

> "It makes my job so easy for kitchen design since all my cabinet suppliers have catalogues on it."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6755873)

KM

Ken M.

Owner

> "Still learning the system, but making adjustments to designs can be a little frustrating, and time consuming. "

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6599431)

KM

Ken M.

Owner

> "As a contractor it also allows for full home design and room layouts too."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6599431)

SS

Scott S.

interior designer

> "Moving the counter in a design and it crashes."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6364875)

IM

Isha M.

Accountant

> "The strong support system and regular updates were also major advantages, keeping the software up-to-date and reliable."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6384584)

AB

Angela B.

Kitchen & Bath Designer

> "It seems to not like it when you fill your plan with too much data (cloud items, changing textures, revising your designs)"

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___5014753)

PM

Patrick M.

Kitchen Designer, Project Estimator

> "It also has the ability to do a very nice and realistic 3D rendering."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6709008)

TR

Tanya R.

Owner

> "Sometimes if not most of the time it would crash and I would lose my project."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6363667)

SK

Stacey K.

Interior Designer

> "Ease of use, 3D abilities and ability to create order forms and price kitchens with the designs."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#SoftwareAdvice___6419039)

AS

Amy S.

Sales and Marketing Consultant

> "Renderings are difficult to manipulate and generally show poorly compared to older versions. When working on multiple computers..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___4836530)

PB

Patrick B.

owner

> "It works well but is very expensive for what it does."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___7092875)

LT

Lee T.

Manufacturer's Sales Representative

> "I am having a problem with my textures constantly tiling. "

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6590469)

JH

Jennifer H.

Sales Manager

> "Ability to create nice drawings if you spend the time to learn it"

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6396837)

SP

Shanna P.

Owner

> "For its price point, it just doesn't give you back everything you're putting into it."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6267740)

SH

Shannon H.

Senior Designer

> "It's easy and quick to do a drawing and show everything I need to my client."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___7004087)

RO

Reina O.

Designer

> "They only offer subscription per year option that you have to renew every year, but software didn't update that much compared..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___4715865)

TM

Todd M.

Senior Interior Designer

> "There are many paths to build your layout/plan with many customizable options to personalize the design with specific products."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___4734465)

BK

Brieana K.

Design Center Associate

> "My experience with 2020 Design Live has been bittersweet because I can create designs a lot faster, but I find myself becoming..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___5010778)

JG

Juliana G.

Designer

> "I have been using 2020 since 2019 and I really like how the renderings are looking more realistic."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6660792)

CH

Carol H.

owner/designer

> "Slow, over-priced, crashes, will not connect to clouderrors on top of errorsIt reverts to programs from other yearsThe..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___5069889)

IM

Isha M.

Accountant

> "The high-quality 3D rendering made visualizing concepts easy and impressive."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6384584)

AJ

Andy J.

owner

> "it is not being used at this time due to the issue above."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6407018)

JS

Jen S.

Kitchen Bath Designer

> "I have been happy with Design Live and what it allows me to offer to my customers. "

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6428839)

BL

Ben L.

Project Manager

> "It could use a UX designer to resolve some of the issues and the cost per employee is far too high."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___4799089)

VR

Verified Reviewer

Accounts Manager

> "So far so good, we are still in the training stages switching from ProKitchen to Design Flex but we've heard great things."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6859042)

JS

Jonathan S.

Cabinetry Design Consultant

> "Also the .shf files are set to read only so changing something to apply universally is a multi step process that should be..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___5069757)

PA

Patrice A.

Owner

> "I enjoy using it and making my drawings look more professional."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6364595)

TH

Taylor H.

Architectural Technologist

> "Some features are difficult to use or require a lot of time to navigate thru to get the look you are trying to achieve -mostly..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___4976384)

AC

Amber C.

Director of Design

> "The graphics quality is improving which is my number 1 Pro."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6363674)

SP

Shanna P.

Owner

> "Clunky and unreliable cloud items"

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6267740)

JP

Jill P.

General Manager

> "Fairly easy to use, a lot of different features to explore."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___7110385)

NM

Natalie M.

Owner

> "The graphics are really not what I'd like to see. "

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6363804)

TR

Tracy R.

Kitchen designer

> "I also like the cloud item I can add to my design."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6716536)

SP

Shanna P.

Owner

> "Sluggish rendering"

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6267740)

HL

Hunter L.

National Account Manager

> "I really liked how intuitive and powerful 2020 Design Live was."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6772343)

JG

Juliana G.

Designer

> "I do not like how the new cloud library works."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6660792)

AB

Angela B.

Kitchen & Bath Designer

> "Having the capabilities for rendering your overall designs is beneficial to communication process with your clients during the..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___5014753)

RS

Rosalyn S.

Designer

> "bit pricey."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6433554)

BM

Barb M.

Kitchen and Bath Designer

> "I would love to take advantage of the newer features, but not at the expense of losing other features."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6497186)

NM

Natalie M.

Owner

> "Tech support is hit or miss. "

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6363804)

BL

Ben L.

Project Manager

> "The robustness of the features, the power of the 3D engine, the compatibility with supplier catalogues"

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___4799089)

VW

Vincent W.

Owner

> "That was already a stretch because I never would use customer service due to extended hold times and inability to fix my issue."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#SoftwareAdvice___6070977)

VK

Valerie K.

Kitchen - Bathroom Designer

> "I like how I can share my designs with my client's!"

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6569558)

JS

Janine S.

Kitchen and Bath Designer

> "I use it almost everyday and I often dread going through the time comsuming task of getting working drawings with correct..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___4696233)

KB

Kristin B.

Designer-owner

> "It's frustrating but the best product out there since I'm a cabinet dealer."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6395562)

AS

Amy S.

Sales and Marketing Consultant

> "Cost of live is also much more expensive in log run from original annual fees for key renewal."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___4836530)

BF

Barbara F.

Administrative Assistant - Designer

> "I can navigate through a drawing with a lot of ease."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6697417)

NC

Norman C.

Owner, Cabinet Dealers - Designers

> "Slap in the face for a long time client, but worse, we were misled."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6366014)

JS

Jen S.

Kitchen Bath Designer

> "The recent improvements with perspectives is huge to me."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6428839)

NC

Norman C.

Owner, Cabinet Dealers - Designers

> "Now the price is increasing drastically."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6366014)

CT

Craig T.

Owner/Kitchen Designer

> "design lives helps me draw kitchens quickly and accurately and allows my customers to envision what their space will look like...."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___4696045)

JM

Jamie M.

Kitchen and Bath Designer

> "Lastly, when choosing and modifying the attributes of a fridge, specifically REF.2D.1DW36, from the ROOM\_APP catalogue, 2020..."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___4697242)

KB

Kristin B.

Designer-owner

> "The fact that is prices the cabinets is why I continue to use it."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___6395562)

GM

Greg M.

Designer

> "Some trims are not able to be placed in a design."

[See full review](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#Capterra___4704639)

[View Reviews](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/reviews/)

## User interface

4.50 (94)

[Design Flex](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/)

4.31 (354)

### Features

RIB SpecLink

15/50

-   2D Drawing
-   3D Imaging
-   Activity Dashboard
-   AI Copilot
-   API
-   Approval Process Control
-   Billing & Invoicing
-   Bills of Material
-   BIM Modeling
-   Commenting/Notes
-   Communication Management
-   Contact Management
-   Contract/License Management
-   Customizable Branding
-   Customizable Reports
-   Customizable Templates
-   Data Import/Export
-   Data Visualization
-   Design Management
-   Document Management
-   Document Storage
-   Drafting
-   Drag & Drop
-   For AEC Industry
-   Generative AI
-   Invoice Management
-   Job Costing
-   Mobile Access
-   Multiple Projects
-   Planning Tools
-   Presentation Tools
-   Projections
-   Project Management
-   Project Planning
-   Project Time Tracking
-   Project Tracking
-   Project Workflow
-   Quotes/Estimates
-   Real-Time Data
-   Real-Time Notifications
-   Reporting & Statistics
-   Role-Based Permissions
-   Search/Filter
-   Secure Data Storage
-   Status Tracking
-   Summary Reports
-   Task Management
-   Task Progress Tracking
-   Task Scheduling
-   Template Management

[See all features](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/#features)

Design Flex

Top features

19/50

-   2D Drawing
-   3D Imaging
-   Activity Dashboard
-   AI Copilot
-   API
-   Approval Process Control
-   Billing & Invoicing
-   Bills of Material
-   BIM Modeling
-   Commenting/Notes
-   Communication Management
-   Contact Management
-   Contract/License Management
-   Customizable Branding
-   Customizable Reports
-   Customizable Templates
-   Data Import/Export
-   Data Visualization
-   Design Management
-   Document Management
-   Document Storage
-   Drafting
-   Drag & Drop
-   For AEC Industry
-   Generative AI
-   Invoice Management
-   Job Costing
-   Mobile Access
-   Multiple Projects
-   Planning Tools
-   Presentation Tools
-   Projections
-   Project Management
-   Project Planning
-   Project Time Tracking
-   Project Tracking
-   Project Workflow
-   Quotes/Estimates
-   Real-Time Data
-   Real-Time Notifications
-   Reporting & Statistics
-   Role-Based Permissions
-   Search/Filter
-   Secure Data Storage
-   Status Tracking
-   Summary Reports
-   Task Management
-   Task Progress Tracking
-   Task Scheduling
-   Template Management

[See all features](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/#features)

### Recognition

No recognitions have been awarded to RIB SpecLink

No recognitions have been awarded to Design Flex

### Deployment & support

RIB SpecLink

Deployment

-   Cloud, SaaS, Web-Based
-   Desktop Mac
-   Desktop Windows
-   Desktop Linux
-   On-Premise Windows
-   On-Premise Linux
-   Desktop Chromebook
-   Mobile Android
-   Mobile iPhone
-   Mobile iPad

Support

-   Email/Help Desk
-   FAQs/Forum
-   Knowledge Base
-   Phone Support
-   24/7 (Live rep)
-   Chat

Training

-   In Person
-   Live Online
-   Webinars
-   Documentation
-   Videos

Design Flex

Deployment

-   Cloud, SaaS, Web-Based
-   Desktop Mac
-   Desktop Windows
-   Desktop Linux
-   On-Premise Windows
-   On-Premise Linux
-   Desktop Chromebook
-   Mobile Android
-   Mobile iPhone
-   Mobile iPad

Support

-   Email/Help Desk
-   FAQs/Forum
-   Knowledge Base
-   Phone Support
-   24/7 (Live rep)
-   Chat

Training

-   In Person
-   Live Online
-   Webinars
-   Documentation
-   Videos

### Company Details

RIB SpecLink

-   By RIB Software
-   Located in Germany
-   Founded in 1961

Design Flex

-   By Cyncly
-   Located in Canada
-   Founded in 1987

## Popular Comparisons

[RIB SpecLink](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/)[4.50 (94)](https://www.capterra.com/p/267349/SpecLink/reviews/)

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4.2

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4.6

4.1

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4.0

[View full comparison](https://www.capterra.com/compare/218525-265023/2020-Design-Live-vs-Revit)

[Design Flex](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/)[4.31 (354)](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/reviews/)

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4.1

4.1

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4.4

[View full comparison](https://www.capterra.com/compare/178124-218525/Monograph-vs-2020-Design-Live)

[Design Flex](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/)[4.31 (354)](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/reviews/)

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Price

Contact vendor for pricing

4.2

Features

4.4

4.1

Ease of Use

4.5

[View full comparison](https://www.capterra.com/compare/164022-218525/Planner-5D-vs-2020-Design-Live)

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Price

$33.33/month

4.2

Features

4.4

4.1

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4.2

[View full comparison](https://www.capterra.com/compare/2018-218525/ArchiCAD-vs-2020-Design-Live)

[Design Flex](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/)[4.31 (354)](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/reviews/)

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Contact vendor for pricing

Price

€1299/year

4.2

Features

4.5

4.1

Ease of Use

4.5

[View full comparison](https://www.capterra.com/compare/174874-218525/Lumion-vs-2020-Design-Live)

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Contact vendor for pricing

Price

$330/year

4.2

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4.1

Ease of Use

4.3

[View full comparison](https://www.capterra.com/compare/121586-218525/Bluebeam-PDF-Revu-vs-2020-Design-Live)

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Price

Contact vendor for pricing

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Features

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4.2

Features

4.5

4.1

Ease of Use

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