LayerGrab

Canva Magic Layers Alternative for Photoshop and Figma Users

Canva Magic Layers turns a flat image into separate elements you can move and edit, but only inside Canva. If you design in Photoshop or Figma, or need the layers as files, these are the alternatives worth knowing.

Disclosure: this page is published by LayerGrab, which is one of the tools compared. Every statement about another product links to the page it came from.

Last updated 2026-09-29

The short answer

  • You design in Canva: keep using the built-in feature; nothing below saves you a step.
  • You design in Photoshop or Figma, or need PNG and PSD files: LayerGrab.
  • You want to try a split in the browser for free: Codia Magic Layers.
  • You want named PNG layers from a simple web tool: magiclayers.net.

LayerGrab

LayerGrab is an AI tool that splits one image into up to 16 separate transparent layers, one per element, or pulls out just the object you name. It works on layergrab.com and as Photoshop, Figma, Sketch and Chrome plugins.

Choose it when

you need the layers outside Canva: in Photoshop, in Figma, or as PNG, ZIP and PSD files.

  • Exports each layer as PNG, all layers as ZIP, or a layered PSD.
  • Photoshop and Figma plugins place the layers in your file, with the same account as the web app. The plugins are in testing.
  • From $12 a month for about 120 layers; $0.08–$0.11 per layer depending on the plan. Pricing

Canva Magic Layers

Turns a flat image into separate, movable elements inside the Canva editor.

Choose it when

People who already design in Canva and want to keep working there.

  • Works with single-page PNG and JPG files. Source
  • Images over 5,000 px on the longest edge are not supported. Source
  • Canva lists photo-realistic imagery as a case where results may vary, and does not support vector graphics, PDFs or licensed images. Source
  • Launched in public beta in March 2026. Source
  • Canva's help page does not mention a PSD or layered-file export. Source

Checked 2026-09-28

Codia Magic Layers

Separates an image into layers and opens the result in Codia Studio.

Choose it when

Trying a layer split for free in the browser.

  • Codia says Magic Layers can be tried for free. Source
  • The result opens in Codia Studio as an editable canvas. Source
  • Accepts PNG, JPG, WebP, screenshots, posters and mockups. Source

Checked 2026-09-28

Magic Layers (magiclayers.net)

Splits a PNG or JPEG into named transparent PNG layers.

Choose it when

Getting named PNG layers without installing anything.

  • Each output image costs 2 credits, including the base image. Source
  • Monthly plans: $29 for up to 200 layers, $79 for up to 600, $149 for up to 1,200. Source
  • One PNG or JPEG per job, up to 10 MB, at least 512 × 512 px, 2 to 15 images per job. Source

Checked 2026-09-28

When LayerGrab is not the right answer

If your whole workflow is in Canva, switching tools to split an image adds a download and an upload that the built-in feature does not need.

LayerGrab does not keep cast shadows, returns text as pixels rather than editable type, and does not split characters into rigging parts for Live2D or Spine. If one of those is what you need, none of the tools on this page is a full answer.

The trade-off in one paragraph

Canva Magic Layers is the most convenient if you never leave Canva. Once your work lives in Photoshop or Figma, or the layers have to leave the editor as files, a tool that exports PNG and PSD and runs inside those apps saves more time than it costs.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best alternative to Canva Magic Layers?

It depends on where you design. If you stay in Canva, the built-in feature is the simplest choice. If you work in Photoshop or Figma, or need the layers as PNG or PSD files, LayerGrab fits better; to try a split in the browser for free, Codia offers a free workflow.

Can I use Canva Magic Layers outside Canva?

Canva's help page describes Magic Layers as working inside the Canva editor and does not mention exporting a layered PSD. If you need the separated layers in another tool, you need a tool that exports files.

Is there a free Magic Layers alternative?

Codia states that its Magic Layers can be tried for free. LayerGrab lets you use every feature on real sample splits without an account. New accounts in supported regions get 30 free credits, enough for a split of up to 3 layers.

How much does splitting an image into layers cost?

On LayerGrab one output layer costs $0.08–$0.11 depending on the plan, and the filled background counts as one layer. magiclayers.net lists monthly plans from $29 for up to 200 layers. Canva does not publish a per-layer price for the feature.