AI Tool Comparison

Sway vs Marq

An objective side-by-side comparison based on global rankings, AI scores, and monthly user data.

Higher Ranked
Sway logo

Sway

Presentation

Microsoft's AI-assisted visual storytelling and presentation app.

AI Score93.5 / 100

#11

Global Rank

–

Monthly Users

VS
Marq logo

Marq

Design

AI-assisted brand templating and design platform for teams.

AI Score91.9 / 100

#17

Global Rank

232K+

Monthly Users

Side-by-Side Comparison

SwayMarq
CategoryPresentationDesign
Global Rank#11#17
AI Score93.5/10091.9/100
Monthly Users–232K+
PricingFreeFreemium
Websitesway.cloud.microsoftmarq.com

Pros & Cons

Sway

  • Genuinely no loss of functionality despite the June 2026 desktop app retirement — full web access remains
  • Interactive, scrollable format differs from traditional static presentation slides
  • Integrated within the broader Microsoft 365 ecosystem
  • Windows desktop app was retired June 1, 2026, requiring transition to the web interface
  • Experienced a temporary service outage in March 2026, though this appears to have been transient
  • Web-only access now for former desktop app users specifically

Marq

  • Affordable $10/user/month Team pricing with a meaningful 33% annual discount
  • Free version and trial allow testing before committing to a paid plan
  • Focus on brand template consistency serves a genuinely different need than general creative design tools
  • Business plan requires 10+ users and custom pricing rather than a published flat rate
  • Focus on brand templates means it’s less suited to freeform creative design work
  • Annual billing commitment is required to access the lowest advertised rates