Mockups are an essential tool for designers to visualize concepts and test out ideas before investing time and effort into full production. Whether you’re a professional designer or just getting started, having access to quality mockup templates can improve your workflow and elevate the quality of your designs. But mockup templates and graphics often come with a price tag, which can limit options for designers on a budget. Luckily, there are plenty of sources to find and download mockup templates 100% free of charge.
What is a Mockup?
A mockup is a visual representation of a design concept or final product. It allows designers to see their idea rendered digitally or physically before full production begins. Mockups can range from extremely simple wireframes to highly polished visual comps with color, typography, and images in place. The level of detail depends on the purpose and stage of the design process. Some common types of mockups include:
- Wireframes – Outline key interface elements like buttons, containers, and navigation
- Visual comps – Apply color, typography, and image assets
- 3D renderings – Show spatial and physical product details
- Prototypes – Demonstrate interactive elements and user flow
Mockups serve several important functions:
- Visualize ideas – See how a concept might look or function in reality
- Communicate design – Share detailed concepts with clients and collaborators
- User testing – Evaluate usability and make improvements before launch
- Save time and money – Refine design direction without investing in full production
Having the right mockup can make a huge difference in the design process. But custom and high-quality mockup files often come with a hefty price tag. This is where free mockup templates come in very handy.
Benefits of Free Mockups
Here are some of the biggest benefits of using free mockup templates:
- Cost savings – No need to purchase premium mockups means extra money for other design and marketing expenses.
- Convenience – Tons of mockup files available instantly, no need to make them from scratch.
- Flexibility – Most free mockups are editable, allowing extensive customization.
- Variety – Choose from wireframes, textures, scenes, shapes, and more.
- Quality – Many free mockups out there rival premium options in appearance and features.
Of course, free mockups may not offer the same level of specific customization as a paid service. But they provide more than enough options for most general design work. And they allow designers at all skill levels to visualize and experiment without worrying about budget. For individual designers and small teams, starting out with free mockups can be a smart move.
Where to Find Free Mockups
Many talented graphic designers and 3D artists generously release their mockup templates online for free. This creates an abundant set of resources for designers to utilize. Here are some of the top places to find and download free mockup files:
Mockup World
Mockup World offers a wide selection of mockups in different categories including apparel, paper, device, and texture mockups. All mockups on the site are free to download and use. Mockup World also asks designers to contribute back to the site with any new mockups they create.
Mockup Bro
Mockup Bro features free mockups for graphic design projects. Choose from mockups like billboards, magazine covers, posters, letters, and restaurant menus. All mockups come in high resolution PSD files that are easy to customize.
Graphic Burger
Graphic Burger has hundreds of mockups in PSD format that are free to download once you complete a short survey. Browse mockups for branding designs, apparel graphics, paper products, devices, and more.
Freepik
Freepik offers an entire category of free editable mockups. Available in PSD, PNG, and vector formats, these mockups work for both web and print projects. Freepik also offers premium mockup options.
ls.graphics
Ls.graphics provides a clean collection of free mockups in PSD and PNG format. Choose from categories like packaging, paper, devices, textile, and photo mockups. All mockups are free for commercial and personal use.
MockupZone
MockupZone is home to hundreds of mockups designed by various artists and released for free. Download mockups with transparent backgrounds in PSD, PNG, and AI formats. New mockups are added regularly.
The Mockup Club
The Mockup Club features the work of twomockup artists releasing high-quality mockups for free. Browse mockups for books, branding, apparel, devices, paper, and more.
Scene creators
Many 3D and graphic artists publish their mockup work on platforms like Behance and Dribbble. Search these sites for “free mockup”, “free psd”, or “free scene creator” to find mockups. Artists often include download links in project descriptions.
Individual websites
Lots of designers release freebies like mockups on their personal websites and blogs. Browse designer portfolios and sites like Dribbble to find these gems. Some even create entire free mockup kits for subscribers.
How to Download and Use Free Mockups
Once you’ve identified the perfect mockup file for your project, follow these simple steps:
1. Download the mockup file
Free mockups are often available in zipped folders or as individual image files. Download the mockup files you want to use. Common file formats include PSD, AI, PNG, and JPG.
2. Extract mockup assets
If you download a zipped mockup kit, extract the folder so you can access all the image assets. Be sure to take note of any guidelines about usage and credits.
3. Open mockup in editing software
Launch your mockup file in a program like Photoshop or Illustrator. The editing software will depend on the file type you are working with.
4. Customize the mockup
Once opened, you can customize the mockup by adding graphics, changing colors, moving elements, or merging it with other assets. Refer to any guidelines from the creator.
5. Export and use mockup
When finished editing, export your complete mockup image file. Then you can use it as needed in your design presentations, prototyping, or marketing materials.
Mockup Ideas and Examples
Ready to put those free mockups to use? Here are some creative examples and ideas:
App and web design mockups
Demonstrate a mobile app, website, or dashboard concept with device or screen mockups. Show interface layouts, transitions, or user flow.
Print design mockups
Display branding, packaging, magazine, and other designs with paper, book, or stationery mockups. Add custom artwork to represent the final product.
Apparel and fashion mockups
Give clothing, accessory, or shoe ideas a realistic look using apparel and model mockups. Share concepts with models, flat lays, or hanging on racks.
Brand identity mockups
Showcase logo, branding, and packaging together with mockups for signage, billboards, labels, bags, boxes, and tech.
Environment and scene mockups
Place product or graphic mockups into context with environment mockups like office spaces, homes, and lifestyle scenes.
Conclusion
Finding high-quality and customizable mockup templates is easy thanks to the many free options available today. While premium mockups have benefits for some, designers on any budget can find free mockup files to take their concepts to the next level. With creative editing and merging, you can use free mockups to visualize just about any design idea or scenario.