We reveal the best graphic design software, both free and paid. The best graphic design software makes life easier by automating dull, routine tasks (often with the help of AI) and giving us more scope to be creative. They include expensive, industry-standard tools like Adobe Photoshop, but increasingly newer and cheaper software is giving these packages a run for their money, so we’ve considered these, too, in compiling our list.
We’ve put our experts to work testing and reviewing a wide range of options, and we’ve drawn their conclusions to bring together our guide to the best graphic design software below. Meanwhile, if you’re looking for something in a different specialist area, check our guides to the best digital art software, graphic design Software, and the best video editing apps.
Table of Contents
1. Affinity photo 2
Affinity Photo is renowned for being a powerful graphic design software that caters to photographers and designers alike. Its key features include non-destructive editing, RAW editing capabilities, and an array of advanced retouching tools. The software is designed to offer a versatile platform for creating visually stunning graphics and images.
If Affinity Photo 2 continues to evolve with a user-friendly interface and impressive performance in 2024, it’s likely to remain a top choice for professionals in the graphic design industry. Affinity Photo’s emphasis on non-destructive editing allows users to make changes without permanently altering the original image, providing flexibility and precision in the editing process. Its RAW editing capabilities are particularly beneficial for photographers who want to work with high-quality, unprocessed image data.
It’s always a good idea to check the official Affinity website or other reliable sources for the latest updates and features of Affinity Photo 2 in 2024. Software tools often undergo enhancements and improvements to meet the evolving needs of users and advancements in technology.
2. GIMP
GIMP is indeed a widely used free and open-source graphic design software that provides a comprehensive set of tools for image editing and graphic design. It offers features such as customizable brushes, layers, filters, and a range of editing options comparable to some paid alternatives.
GIMP’s popularity stems from its accessibility and cost-effectiveness, making it an attractive choice for designers, photographers, and artists working on a budget. The software has a strong and supportive community of users who contribute to its development and provide assistance through forums and documentation.
If GIMP continues to be actively maintained and updated in 2024, it is likely to maintain its position as a leading graphic design tool, especially for users who prioritize free and open-source solutions. It’s advisable to check the official GIMP website or other reliable sources for the latest information on features and developments beyond my last knowledge update. Software tools often undergo improvements and updates to enhance their functionality and user experience.
3. Affinity Designer 2
Affinity Designer is recognized as a cutting-edge vector graphics editor, catering to designers who need precision in creating illustrations, logos, and branding materials. The software is known for features such as advanced pen and node tools, customizable grids, and real-time pixel preview, offering a versatile platform for vector-based design.
If Affinity Designer 2 continues to build upon its predecessor’s strengths, it is likely to remain a key player in the graphic design industry. The emphasis on precision tools, coupled with real-time previews, provides designers with the means to bring their creative visions to life with accuracy and efficiency. Software tools often undergo updates and enhancements to stay competitive and meet the evolving needs of users and advancements in technology.
4. Adobe Photoshop
Adobe Photoshop has long been recognized as a leading graphic design software, offering a comprehensive suite of tools for photo editing, compositing, and digital painting. Its features include layers, masks, blending modes, and a wide range of tools that cater to designers working on a variety of projects, from basic edits to intricate compositions.
If Adobe Photoshop continues to evolve and enhance its features in 2024, it is highly likely to remain a staple in the graphic design industry. The software has set the standard for professional image editing, and its widespread use across various design disciplines makes it an integral part of many designers’ workflows. Adobe typically releases updates regularly, introducing new tools and improvements to meet the demands of the evolving design landscape.
5. Adobe Illustrator
Adobe Illustrator has long been a leading vector graphics editor, favored by designers for creating scalable illustrations, logos, and typography. The software provides a range of tools, including the Pen tool, Shape Builder, and Image Trace, which enable designers to work with precision and bring their creative ideas to life in a vector format.
If Adobe Illustrator continues to evolve and enhance its features in 2024, it is likely to maintain its position as a top choice for vector-based design. Its seamless workflow, coupled with powerful design tools, has made it a staple for designers working on projects that require scalability, precision, and versatility. Adobe often introduces updates to its software, incorporating new tools and improvements to meet the evolving needs of designers and the design industry.
6. Adobe InDesign
Adobe InDesign is indeed a leading page layout software, catering to designers working on a variety of print and digital publications, including magazines, brochures, and eBooks. The software offers features such as master pages, liquid layouts, and advanced typography controls, providing a versatile platform for creating professional and visually engaging layouts.
If Adobe InDesign continues to evolve and enhance its features in 2024, it is likely to remain a key player in the graphic design industry. Its role in facilitating the creation of well-designed publications for both print and digital formats makes it a crucial tool for designers seeking precision and flexibility in layout design.
To stay updated on the latest features and developments in Adobe InDesign in 2024, it’s recommended to check the official Adobe website or other reliable sources. Adobe typically releases updates to its software, introducing new tools and improvements to meet the evolving needs of designers and the publishing industry.
7. Canva Pro
Canva Pro is widely recognized as a user-friendly graphic design platform, catering to a broad audience, from individuals to businesses. It offers a diverse range of templates, photos, and design elements, making it accessible to users with various design needs. Key features of Canva Pro include drag-and-drop editing, brand kit management, and collaboration tools, making it a popular choice for those looking to create professional designs effortlessly.
If Canva Pro continues to build upon its strengths and enhance its features in 2024, it is likely to maintain its status as a go-to tool for designers of all skill levels. The platform’s intuitive design experience and vast library of resources contribute to its popularity, especially among users who prioritize ease of use and a wide variety of design options.
To get the most accurate and up-to-date information on Canva Pro in 2024, I recommend checking the official Canva website or other reliable sources. Software platforms often undergo updates and enhancements to stay competitive and meet the evolving needs of users.
Pixels is a comprehensive graphic design platform that provides designers with a diverse collection of high-quality stock photos, illustrations, and design assets. With features like curated collections, search filters, and licensing options, Pixels is a valuable resource for designers seeking visual inspiration and assets for their projects. Looking ahead to 2024, Pixels is poised to be a top choice for designers in need of premium stock images and assets to enhance their creative work.
8. CorelDRAW
CorelDRAW is indeed a professional vector graphics editor that has been a staple in the design industry for many years. It provides a comprehensive set of tools for illustration, layout, and photo editing. Notable features include LiveSketch, Symmetry mode, and AI-powered tools, allowing designers to create intricate and visually appealing designs efficiently.
If CorelDRAW continues to evolve and enhance its features in 2024, it is likely to maintain its status as a preferred tool for designers working on vector-based illustrations and designs. The software’s advanced features and seamless workflow contribute to its popularity among users who require precision and versatility in their design projects. Software platforms often undergo updates and improvements to stay competitive and meet the evolving needs of users and advancements in technology.
9. Sketch and Figma
Sketch and Figma are indeed popular design tools known for their intuitive interfaces, collaborative features, and extensive design libraries. They are widely used for various design tasks, including prototyping, wireframing, and UI design, making them ideal for creating modern and interactive designs for web and mobile applications.
Both Sketch and Figma have gained popularity for their collaborative features, allowing designers to work seamlessly with team members in real-time, regardless of geographical location. Their cloud-based nature enables easy sharing and collaboration, making them well-suited for the demands of today’s design workflows. As we move into 2024, Sketch Figma is anticipated to be an essential tool for designers working on digital projects, offering streamlined workflows and powerful design capabilities.
