Looking for the best photo book service is key to saving special memories. Mixbook and Shutterfly stand out as top choices. They promise quality and unique features. In this comparison, we look at their prices, custom options, and more. This will help you pick the right service for your photo albums.
Key Takeaways
- Mixbook has created over 15 million projects since 2006. Shutterfly, starting in 1999, is a top seller of personalized goods.
- Shutterfly’s 8×11 hardcover book with 20 pages starts at $55.97 USD. Mixbook’s 8.5×11 book begins at $15.66 USD.
- Mixbook offers 688 design templates. That’s a lot more than Shutterfly’s 95 styles.
- Customizable features and ease of use set them apart. Mixbook provides more design options.
- Costco members get 51% off at Shutterfly, including free shipping on orders over $49. Mixbook also offers big discounts often.
Overview of Mixbook and Shutterfly
When you’re looking at personalized photo book services, it’s key to compare Mixbook and Shutterfly. Both have a strong history and focus on their customers. They each highlight different parts of making a photo book.
History and Reputation
Mixbook started in 2006 and is known for being easy to use and customize. Shutterfly has been around since 1999. It’s famous for not just photo books but also gifts and stationery. Shutterfly is a well-known name in the industry.
Available Products and Services
Comparing Mixbook and Shutterfly shows that they both have a lot to offer but in different ways. Mixbook has more than 700 designs, while Shutterfly has 283. You can make Mixbook photo books with up to 399 pages, but Shutterfly books go up to 111 pages. Mixbook has 8 book sizes and 4 cover types. Shutterfly has 6 sizes and 5 cover types, including the unique Flyleaf cover.
| Feature | Mixbook | Shutterfly |
|---|---|---|
| Design Options | 700+ | 283 |
| Pages per Book | 10 – 399 | 20 – 111 |
| Book Sizes | 8 | 6 |
| Cover Types | 4 | 5 (includes Flyleaf) |
| Lowest Price | $14.99 | $19.98 |
| Customer Support | 24/7, live chat, email, phone, community forums | Live chat, email, phone, FAQ section |
| Shipping Time | Fast | Average |
| Customizable Themes | 300+ | 200+ |
Target Audience
Looking at Mixbook and Shutterfly, both aim at photo lovers and families wanting to capture special moments. Mixbook’s 60-day guarantee and smart design tools attract those looking for ease and quick solutions. On the other hand, Shutterfly is perfect for people wanting a wide range of photo products.
Design and Customization Options
When we talk design and customization, Mixbook and Shutterfly will wow you. Each has its own perks in quality and flexibility. Let’s explore what they offer.
Design Templates and Themes
Mixbook has a rich selection of 688 templates and 22 themes. You’re sure to find the right design for any event. Everything is editable, so you can change the cover and where photos go. Shutterfly offers 95 styles but doesn’t match Mixbook’s customization level.
Photo Book Sizes and Formats
Sizes and formats are key in comparing Mixbook and Shutterfly. Mixbook leads with its custom options in its photo book editor. This means you can make a photo book that’s truly yours. Shutterfly has many sizes too but less customization. Mixbook’s top-notch quality gives it an advantage.
Customization Features
The real difference in quality between Mixbook and Shutterfly is in customization. Mixbook lets you upload images from various sources with ease. Shutterfly has similar options but isn’t as flexible. Mixbook’s software also has handy tips and six filters for editing photos. On the other hand, Shutterfly has eight effects but fewer tools for custom edits.
Below is a table comparing each service’s main features:
| Feature | Mixbook | Shutterfly |
|---|---|---|
| Design Templates | 688 | 95 |
| Themes | 22 | Varies |
| Editable Templates | Fully Editable | Limited Editability |
| Photo Book Sizes | More Tailored Adjustments | Various Sizes Available |
| Image-Uploading Options | Computer, Social Media, Photo Storage | Computer, Social Media, Photo Storage |
| Photo Filters | 6 | 8 |
| Guidance Resources | Available | Limited |
In summary, the battle of design and customization between Mixbook and Shutterfly shows major differences. Mixbook leads with its array of templates and user-friendly features. It’s why many prefer Mixbook for their photo book needs.
Ease of Use and User Experience
Both Mixbook and Shutterfly have their own advantages when it comes to ease of use and user experience. Mixbook is often praised for how easy it makes managing photos and customizing layouts. Shutterfly, on the other hand, has a wide range of editing tools but sometimes runs into technical issues. Both platforms provide mobile apps, making it easier for users to create on the move.
Website and Mobile App Functionality
Mixbook is known as the “most user-friendly” photo book service. It has an intuitive design that makes it simple for users to navigate and personalize their photo books. The website and mobile app make it easy to upload pictures from different sources like computers, Facebook, and Instagram.
Shutterfly, though, is celebrated for its robust features and the “Make My Book” service, which crafts custom photo books quickly. But, some have mentioned glitches on the site that can slow down the editing process.
Photo Upload and Organization
Mixbook makes uploading photos hassle-free, pulling images from various platforms and devices. This ease of use is a big reason why users prefer Mixbook, as noted in mixbook vs shutterfly reviews.
Shutterfly also offers many upload options and tools for organizing photos. However, some users find these tools a bit tricky to use during times of heavy site traffic.
Editing Tools and Layout Flexibility
Mixbook shines with its array of customization options. Users have access to editable templates, custom borders, and more, making it easy to create unique photo books. This focus on customization highlights Mixbook’s dedication to making the process user-friendly.
Shutterfly, while offering a variety of editing tools like Auto and Sepia effects, is sometimes seen as less user-friendly compared to Mixbook. This can affect the overall editing experience.
| Feature | Mixbook | Shutterfly |
|---|---|---|
| User-friendly Design | Rated as most user-friendly | Occasional glitches |
| Photo Upload Options | Multiple sources, including social media | Comprehensive but sometimes cumbersome |
| Editing Tools | Extensive customization features | Numerous but sometimes finicky |
| Mobile App Functionality | Highly intuitive | Robust with some glitches |
When looking at mixbook vs shutterfly reviews, it’s clear each platform has its pros and cons. Mixbook is lauded for its ease of use and flexible design options. Shutterfly, despite occasional issues, offers a broad selection of tools.
Pricing and Discounts
Choosing between Mixbook or Shutterfly for photo books is big. It depends on their pricing and discounts. Let’s break down their costs and offers. This will help you choose wisely.
Base Pricing
Mixbook’s starting price for a 21-page book is $39.78. Shutterfly’s photo books begin at $16. Both have different sizes and options. But Mixbook might be better for a quality starting product.
Discounts and Promotions
Both services offer deals, helping you save money. Shutterfly often has huge discounts, up to 50% off. They also offer Costco specials and professional help. Mixbook has clear pricing and seasonal deals, without hidden fees.
Additional Costs and Add-Ons
Extra features can add to your book’s cost. Both charge more for special pages or more pages. Shutterfly includes 20 pages but charges for more, and a $10 logo removal fee. Shipping and taxes are extra. Mixbook’s clear pricing could mean savings on bigger books.
| Service | Base Price (8.5 x 8.5 hardcover) | Additional Costs | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mixbook | $39.78 | Extra pages, custom features | Professional look, budget-friendly |
| Shutterfly | Starting at $16 | Extra pages, logo removal, shipping, taxes | Big discounts, professional design help |
Your choice between Mixbook and Shutterfly depends on needs and budget. Both offer different features and pricing. Think about base costs and extra fees. Each has its own perks and downsides.
Mixbook vs Shutterfly
When you compare Mixbook and Shutterfly, you see both similarities and big differences. Mixbook, started in 2006, is known for being super easy to use. People love it. Shutterfly has been making customers happy since 1999. They are known for great deals on custom photo books.
The quality of their print and materials matters a lot. Mixbook lets you use a bunch of stickers, designs, and fonts. You can even upload your own designs. On the other side, Shutterfly offers many themed styles and lets you customize completely. They have a special service called “Make My Book” that finishes your design in three days or less.
| Aspect | Mixbook | Shutterfly |
|---|---|---|
| Established | 2006 | 1999 |
| Starting Price for 20-page Hardcover Book | $15.66 | $55.97 |
| Additional Page Cost | $1.79 | $2.19 |
| Total Price for 41-page Hardcover Book | $63.05 | $77.50 |
| Final Price with Discounts | $31.99 | $45.37 |
| Design Templates Available | 688 | 95 |
| Finishes | Glossy, Matte | Glossy, Matte, Leather Binding |
| Customer Support Availability | Monday – Friday, 5 am – 12 am PST Saturday – Sunday, 8 am – 4:30 pm PST |
24/7 |
Mixbook wins hearts with its easy customization and team-up features. Many users can work together, adding photos and pages. But, Shutterfly’s always-there customer service makes it a tough match. They’re available anytime.
Both offer amazing products. But if you like to do things together and want a smooth experience, Mixbook might be your pick. Shutterfly is better for those hunting for good deals and lots of ready-to-use styles.
Conclusion
Choosing between Mixbook and Shutterfly depends on your needs, like your budget and what features you want. Both have special strengths when creating photo books.
Mixbook’s big plus is its many customization options and easy-to-use tools. You can start making a project for no cost. You only pay when you print, starting at about $15. They offer a wide range of sizes and special options like lay-flat pages. This makes Mixbook popular for those wanting a book that’s just right for them.
Shutterfly shines with its simplicity and emotional touch, especially in its app. You can make a photo book starting at $15 as well. It’s known for easy navigation and lots of template choices for different events. Shutterfly is great for creating something that pulls on the heartstrings, like holiday cards.
In the mixbook vs shutterfly battle, your choice depends on what’s more important to you in a photo book service. Whether it’s Mixbook’s customization or Shutterfly’s user-friendly and emotional connect, both have something good to offer. Use the points from this comparison to help decide which service fits your photo book dreams.
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