# Design Flex Reviews 2026. Verified Reviews, Pros & Cons | Capterra > Is Design Flex the right Architecture solution for you? Explore 354 verified user reviews from people in industries like yours to make a confident choice. Source: https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/reviews --- Design Flex 4.3 (354) [View alternatives](https://www.capterra.com/p/218525/2020-Design-Live/alternatives/) Provider data verified by our Software Research team, and reviews moderated by our Reviews Verification team. [Learn more](https://www.capterra.com/our-story/) * * * Last updated March 13th, 2026 # Reviews of Design Flex Ease of use 4.1 Customer Service 4.3 ## Pros and Cons in Reviews KG Karly G PresidentDesign, Self-employedUsed the software for: More than 2 years. “What I like most is its flexibility and the ability to quickly build detailed layouts that clients can easily visualize.“ March 19, 2026 KG Karly G PresidentDesign, Self-employedUsed the software for: More than 2 years. “Rendering can also be inconsistent, and while it’s good for general visuals, it doesn’t always deliver the level of realism clients expect.“ March 19, 2026 MG Michelle G Kitchen design ManagerRetail, 11 - 50 employeesUsed the software for: 1-2 years. “Mostly, I like the rendering quality and the ability to plug in full cabinetry manufacture catalogs for quick design and pricing“ August 25, 2025 MB Matt B Corp Co-Ord of K and B Displays and TrainingRetail, 501 - 1,000 employeesUsed the software for: More than 2 years. “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 similar in all Icons I have to look a lot closer to make sure that I have selected the correct one.“ June 28, 2024 LM Lindsay M Cabinet DesignConstruction, 2 - 10 employeesUsed the software for: Less than 6 months. “I also love the 3D renderings, as they have helped our clients really visualize what the outcome will be in their space.“ January 13, 2026 KG Karly G PresidentDesign, Self-employedUsed the software for: More than 2 years. “Some of the features feel less intuitive than they should be, requiring extra steps.“ March 19, 2026 IM Isha M AccountantAccounting, 11 - 50 employeesUsed the software for: 6-12 months. “The high-quality 3D rendering capabilities were impressive and beneficial for client presentations. Although there were occasional performance issues and a steep learning curve for advanced features, the software's flexibility, cloud-based access, and regular updates enhanced my workflow significantly. Despite the higher subscription cost and occasional integration challenges, the robust support system and continuous improvements made it a valuable tool for my design needs.“ July 11, 2024 CW Crystal W OwnerDesign, 2 - 10 employeesUsed the software for: More than 2 years. “The software still has some issues with running slow when a lot of walls or sketchup items are in the file.“ June 16, 2025 ## Showing most helpful reviews Showing 1-25 of 354 Reviews Sort by: Most Helpful Rating Company Size Reviewer's Role Length of Use Frequency of Use C Michelle M. Designer Construction Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "2020 Live is the Go To for Kitchen and Bath" March 29, 2023 4.0 I have been using 2020 my whole career (30+ years). While all software has a learning curve and it's hiccups, I find that 2020 is one of the most organic to learn and it produces quality results. I cannot see a time when I will not be using some version of 2020 design software. Pros An oldie but a goodie, I love the split screen that lets me draw on both the floor plan and elevation simultaneously. I also make good use of the running line feature to accentuate my drawings. Sometimes, it is less about what wiz bang new feature that you made (i.e. VR goggles) and more about doing something simple and crushing it. Cons The main reason companies still utilize other programs like Mosaik is for the CNC connection. That is the biggest omission in features with 2020. Review Source CW Crystal W. Owner Design Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Beautiful renderings from anywhere! " June 16, 2025 5.0 I would have given a 6 out of 10 2 months ago because I felt that the rendering software had been the same quality for many years and the long wait times on some files is frustrating, but with the new rendering upgrades and cloud storage I would give it an 8 out of 10. Pros Accessible anywhere and loving the improvement of the rendering engine! I also love the new option for cloud file saving to make projects even easier to access from different locations. Cons The software still has some issues with running slow when a lot of walls or sketchup items are in the file. Alternatives considered [Houzz Pro](https://www.capterra.com/p/199689/Houzz-Pro/) Reason for choosing Design Flex Ease of use and the amount of manufacturers who make catalogs for it. Review Source BM Barb M. Kitchen and Bath Designer Building Materials Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Still a work in progress..." September 18, 2024 3.0 None of our designers have upgraded to the latest version V14.2 because of reports of the instability/ crashing or lack of control over cloud based items. We are all running either V13.6 or V13.8. I would love to take advantage of the newer features, but not at the expense of losing other features. I definitely do not feel they have improved by 25-30% to be worth the accumulative price increase. I have been using this sinve V4.X or earlier. Pros The ability to design and price projects with the actual manufacturer catalogs. The ability to create accurate visuals for both the designer and client to enhance the process and understanding of what they are receiving. Cons Problems with the cloud and cloud base products. The inability to edit size and color and textures of cloud base decorative items. For many of our designers, the system will crash and/or revert setting preferences requiring having to recreate multiple times. Many of the designers have not had optimal quality with the EZ render engine, or it crashes. Alternatives considered [SketchUp](https://www.capterra.com/p/211798/SketchUp/)[Chief Architect](https://www.capterra.com/p/80035/Chief-Architect/)[ProKitchen Online](https://www.capterra.com/p/210673/ProKitchen-Online/) Reason for choosing Design Flex We opted to renew our subscription due to time and training requirements to learn another product at this time. We feel 2020 has not earned the steep price increase. We do use Chief Architect for other projects. Review Source MS Matt S. Kitchen and Bath Design Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Love using Design Flex" January 15, 2026 5.0 I've used 2020/Design Flex for many years (since 2007). It's gotten much easier to use over the years. Pros Ease of use and 3D renderings. The ease of adjusting heights, tilt, depth of field, etc. make showing a design fun. Cons Lighting is difficult to set up. Sometimes the renderings can be either bright/washed out or very dark. Review Source SH Shannon H. Senior Designer Design Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Easy to use design program! " September 8, 2025 5.0 I love working with this program. It's easy and quick to do a drawing and show everything I need to my client. Pros Being able to get a price quoted immediately!! The renderings have also significantly improved. The interface is easy to work with. Cons Countertops and moldings are difficult to work with especially in comparison to ProKitchen. We do wish there was a monthly fee for the program instead of a yearly. Alternatives considered [Chief Architect](https://www.capterra.com/p/80035/Chief-Architect/)[ProKitchen Online](https://www.capterra.com/p/210673/ProKitchen-Online/) Reason for choosing Design Flex We use all 3 programs for different reasons. We wanted Design Flex for primarily for pricing out the products quickly. But I also feel it's easier to use than the other products out there for Kitchen design. Review Source SB Stephanie B. Lead Designer Construction Used the software for: Less than 6 months ### "New to home program " February 22, 2025 4.0 Starting it up and running with it. I am very pleased with \[sensitive content hidden\] but don’t want to bother with simple questions. Need a chat bot tutorial Pros Accessories and access ability for endless possibilities. Cons No tutorial on features upon login nor any type quick link box. Alternatives considered [AutoCAD](https://www.capterra.com/p/265024/AutoCAD/) Reason for choosing Design Flex I’m familiar with 2020 design. Just not 2020 design live. Review Source CO CHARLES O. President and Design Consultant Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "Wow Rendering Factor!" March 11, 2025 5.0 My experience has been fabulous. The entire transition has been seamless. Thank you so much! Pros Realistic rendering that replicates the space as envisioned. I also appreciate the fact that several materials and interior selections are available for me to use in the design. I am practically limited by my imagination. Cons Nothing of significance that I can highlight at this moment. Switched from [Chief Architect](https://www.capterra.com/p/80035/Chief-Architect/) Materials list and pricing are already built into the program. Review Source PM Patrick M. Kitchen Designer, Project Estimator Building Materials Used the software for: Less than 6 months ### "It is okay at best." February 26, 2025 2.0 I have been a Kitchen Designer fo more than 20 years. It works okay but it is not my first choice. I truthfully get so angry at the bugs that I am not happy with the purchase. Pros The program has many features. It also has the ability to do a very nice and realistic 3D rendering. Cons I have used the 2020 software for many years and it was great until the new interface. I am not sure what happened but the the new system is vey buggy and the drag feature will often lose contol and the cabinet will disappear or just plain drop off the grid and reappear when doing a renering. Switched from [WPS Office](https://www.capterra.com/p/126794/WPS-Office/) I thought it was similiar to the old version. Review Source KM Ken M. Owner Construction Used the software for: Less than 6 months ### "Artisan Renovations review of 2020 Spaces" November 30, 2024 5.0 Been using 2020 Spaces for a month now and although still in a learning curve, very satisfied with the program. Pros It is much easier to use than other such programs we have used or tested. It easily allows input of various cabinetry and appliances, and access to manufacturer catalogs for accurate designs. We have found it is the same software used by our cabinet vendors which allows for easy interfacing with their ordering systems. As a contractor it also allows for full home design and room layouts too. We highly recommend 2020 Spaces for all your renovation needs. Cons Still learning the system, but making adjustments to designs can be a little frustrating, and time consuming. We have found it easier to delete areas of the design and re-input. Alternatives considered [Chief Architect](https://www.capterra.com/p/80035/Chief-Architect/) Reason for choosing Design Flex Features and ease of use especially for kitchen and bath design Switched from [Houzz Pro](https://www.capterra.com/p/199689/Houzz-Pro/) Houzz Pro did not have the features or ease of use that 2020 Spaces has Review Source MK Markku K. Director of ops Design Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Good new features added." November 20, 2024 4.0 I have used the 2020 software for many years and with the addition of the cloud catalogs and sketchup object import we are able to expand what we can do. Pros The software is supported by a wide selection of manufacturer supported catalogs which makes ensuring the proper fit, finish, and textures for the renderings. Cons It has significant resource and hardware requirements, so you have to pay attention to get the proper computers. Alternatives considered [Revit](https://www.capterra.com/p/265023/Revit/)[AutoCAD](https://www.capterra.com/p/265024/AutoCAD/)[ProKitchen Online](https://www.capterra.com/p/210673/ProKitchen-Online/) Reason for choosing Design Flex Supported catalogs and integration with our manufacturers. Review Source MB Matt B. Corp Co-Ord of K and B Displays and Training Retail Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Home is always Local" June 28, 2024 5.0 Excellent, the platform is very familiar and there are some great new features like the Local function and the Variations function that have improved the way Design Live works. Pros My favorite new function in Design Live is the Local function located in the Home ribbon. I remember this by the phrase 'Home is always Local'. This function opens File Explorer where the file is located providing instant access to any records that I have saved in that drawings project folder. Cons 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 similar in all Icons I have to look a lot closer to make sure that I have selected the correct one. Alternatives considered [Chief Architect](https://www.capterra.com/p/80035/Chief-Architect/) Reason for choosing Design Flex Ease of use, functions are more intuitive, support behind the product surpasses other products, innovation of new product is constant. Review Source NM Natalie M. Owner Design Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Computer Designs" June 28, 2024 4.0 Tech support is hit or miss. Some techs have been awesome, VERY helpful. Others can be a bit condescending and make you feel stupid for asking questions. The availability of outside elements to incorporate into my design are good - but they are challenging to acquire and can bog the design down. Pros 2020 is relatively easy to use - I've used it for many years Cons The graphics are really not what I'd like to see. Great for my clients to get a 3D image, but they are a bit amateur looking Alternatives considered [Chief Architect](https://www.capterra.com/p/80035/Chief-Architect/) Reason for choosing Design Flex Habit and familiarity. I don't have time to learn a new system Review Source BF Barbara F. Administrative Assistant - Designer Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 2+ years ### "2020 Design Live Great To Use" February 19, 2025 5.0 I have been a user for over 30 years and the 2020 Design Live is excellent. Pros The ease of use. I can navigate through a drawing with a lot of ease. Cons The way the color comes out on my screen. Always looks daker than it should. Review Source AH Adam H. Owner Construction Used the software for: Less than 6 months ### "Time is money" March 28, 2025 5.0 The support and training materials are great and the software has sped up our process by at least 50% Pros They really streamlined the whole process for quick layout building and inserting textures. Cons Right after buying it, I watched the first video recommended to me and it was about the flex platform, but after reaching out to support, I found out I didn’t have access to it. Review Source ME Mahmoud E. Kitchen sales design Arts and Crafts Used the software for: I used a free trial ### "Want to purchase 2020 design live" December 13, 2024 4.0 Working with 2020 more than 12 years It's goods for the bigger Pros Easy to design Very good rendering Easy to explain the design Cons Good Easy Attractive Very simple Rendering is good Review Source IM Isha M. Accountant Accounting Used the software for: 6-12 months ### "Accountant" July 11, 2024 5.0 My overall experience with 2020 Design Live has been positive. The intuitive interface and extensive catalog library made designing accurate and realistic projects straightforward. The high-quality 3D rendering capabilities were impressive and beneficial for client presentations. Although there were occasional performance issues and a steep learning curve for advanced features, the software's flexibility, cloud-based access, and regular updates enhanced my workflow significantly. Despite the higher subscription cost and occasional integration challenges, the robust support system and continuous improvements made it a valuable tool for my design needs. Pros I appreciated the user-friendly interface and the extensive library of manufacturer catalogs, which ensured accurate and realistic designs. The high-quality 3D rendering made visualizing concepts easy and impressive. Additionally, the software's flexibility, seamless integration with other tools, and cloud-based access significantly improved my workflow. The strong support system and regular updates were also major advantages, keeping the software up-to-date and reliable. Cons I found the software occasionally slow, especially with complex designs, which affected productivity. The learning curve for advanced features was steep, and more in-depth tutorials could be beneficial. Additionally, the subscription cost felt high, particularly for small businesses. Sometimes, integration with other software had compatibility issues, and customer support response times could be improved. Review Source Response from Cyncly July 31, 2024 Thank you for your feedback! We're delighted to hear that you appreciate our user-friendly interface, extensive library of manufacturer catalogs, and high-quality 3D rendering capabilities. We also value your constructive feedback. We understand that occasional slowdowns, especially with complex designs, can impact productivity, and we're continuously working on performance enhancements to address this. DS Danielle S. Kitchen and Bath Designer and Store Manager Retail Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Exceptional" July 16, 2024 5.0 This is a tried and true software that is necessary in this line of work. I learned the software fairly quickly and have been self taught since I began 15 years ago and very rarely need to call on assistance as it is that easy to use Pros It gives me everything I need to give my clients a true view of their prospective project Cons It is quite expensive as compared to other brands Reason for choosing Design Flex I had been using it elsewhere and was very familiar with the ins and outs Review Source SS Scott S. interior designer Building Materials Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Program getting better" June 29, 2024 4.0 The pricing is steep for what it is.. Like the old days of the Doggle. This is the best program that is out there if you are doing cabinet designs since it prices it all out for you. Pros One of the best things with this program it allows you to price the cabinets and add modifications as long as the manufactures of the cabinets provide correct information. Cons That is crashes for the stupidest reasons. Moving the counter in a design and it crashes. The other issue with this program is out of nowhere it decides to go back several steps that you just did and undo your work. Be careful of this part it can screw up your design if you did not know it happened and then you have to go back and redesign. Review Source VF Vince F. VP General Manager Architecture & Planning Used the software for: Less than 6 months ### "2020 Design Live Review" December 12, 2024 5.0 Pros I really like the ease of use and rendering qualities. Cons We really haven't experienced anything negative at this point. Review Source CS Charlie S. Manager Building Materials Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "Southern Materials Company" July 8, 2024 5.0 We have seen a good return on investment on our subscription and will continue using 2020 Design Live going forward Pros 2020 Design Live allows our design staff to quickly and accurately design out kitchen and bathroom cabinetry for our customer base. Cons We would like an easier way to answer questions when having troubles configuring difficult cabinetry situations. Review Source MS Mahmoud S. Sales designer Architecture & Planning Used the software for: I used a free trial ### "Want to purchase the last version. " August 11, 2024 5.0 I'm using 2020 as 12 years. Using it with kitchens and closets Pros Easy to use Very helpful Make the price easy Cons I want to purchase the last version But i don't know how? Review Source Response from Cyncly August 27, 2024 Hey Mahmoud, You can contact sales@2020spaces.com and they can point you in the right direction! JS Jon S. Designer Construction Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Great Program" June 28, 2024 5.0 Pros Easy to use UI, 3d rendering, and reports. Cons Wish there was a way to have Dev. access so you can personally setup your own catalog. Going through the 3rd party catalog designers was not a great experience. Review Source GV Geovanna V. Designer Design Used the software for: 6-12 months ### "Great product " July 8, 2024 5.0 It’s a very good product, I use it daily! Pros It looks very clean, everything is very user friendly. Cons It took me a little bit to get used to the new version Review Source SB Stephanie B. Owner Design Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "Design Live" July 8, 2024 5.0 Pros We like that there are more options than there were before. Cons Some of it is cumbersome to find what you are looking for Review Source EE Enes E. Owner Design Used the software for: 6-12 months ### "Overall experience " June 29, 2024 4.0 Pros Easy to use of the program and gives good results. Cons Rendering could look better then right now. If you can improve that, it’ll be very good. Review Source Similar Products Featured