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17 Top Graphic Design Tools Software

Last updated on January 19, 2025 by RGB Web Tech

17 Top Graphic Design Tools Software

Discover some of the best graphic design software and tools for all types of designers.

Designers used to be limited to only a few choices for professional graphic design tools.

Now the field is open, and designers can choose from a wide range of design tool options, including open-source platforms.

No longer are graphic design tools strictly limited to PC or Mac operating systems, either. You’ll find many that have iOS and Android mobile apps, too, with support for Linux and Chrome OS.

The dizzying array of editing tools can make it difficult to pick the best graphic design software. Our roundup focuses on some oldies but goodies, such as Adobe Photoshop, as well as some new kids on the block, like Affinity Photo.

1. Adobe Photoshop

Adobe Photoshop has long remained the industry standard for desktop publishing. It is a popular favorite with graphic designers for a reason. Its array of image editing tools supports the beginner to the pro with a user-friendly interface and a plethora of well-written tutorials. The graphic design software puts you in control, from the canvas size to the artistic filter.

Like Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop offers a seven-day free trial. Interestingly, you can get Photoshop and Adobe Lightroom at a cheaper cost. The trial for Photoshop includes 100 GB of cloud storage, and Lightroom includes 1 TB. It also has some extra functionality with its paint application, Adobe Fresco, and its storytelling program, Adobe Spark. The collaboration between the programs is outstanding.

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Platform: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android

2. Adobe Illustrator

Adobe Illustrator wrote the book on vector graphics software. It sets the standard for professionally designed logos, artwork, infographics, icons, and much more. You can work from a freehand sketch to a vector image that is scalable to any size. Adobe Illustrator works with graphics differently, using mathematical formulas instead of pixels for seamless resizing.

Adobe Illustrator offers a seven day free trial, but you have to provide a credit card to start. If you select the annual plan, paid monthly — it’s $20.99 per month. Otherwise, you’ll pay $31.49 per month for the monthly plan. Either way, it’s expensive. However, Adobe Illustrator is one of those products that will have you learning something new all the time, even if it’s not the most user-friendly software available.

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Platform: Windows, Mac, iPad, Android

3. Figma

Figma offers a lot of features for free graphic design software. One of the most impressive is the free unlimited cloud storage with the free version. Its strength is with vector graphics, with an impressive range of tools. You’ll have to pop for the professional plan to get invite-only private projects. Otherwise, you can share a link for collaboration.

Figma gives businesses a lot of latitude with customization, particularly at the organization level. You can create and administer private plugins. Comparatively speaking, it is an affordable plan.

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Platform: Windows, Mac, Linux, Chrome OS

4. Sketch

Sketch is a Mac-only vector editing software that does an excellent job of managing your workflow with a customizable interface that uses your plugins. It’s a bare-bones photo editor that snubs Microsoft with its Mac-only use — which can be a deal-breaker for some with these limitations. However, Sketch succeeds as a web design software because the interface is so user-friendly. It’s actually fun to use!

Sketch offers basic functionality, and it’s a godsend that there is such strong community support to provide solutions for when the software falls short. The available plugins are helpful. Sketch offers a free 30-day trial but no free tier for individuals. The business option requires getting in touch with Sketch, which can be a good or bad thing, depending on your size or needs.

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Platform: Mac

5. Affinity Designer

Affinity Designer is an excellent choice for personal projects or novice graphic designers with its intuitive user interface. It’s a worthy competitor to Adobe Illustrator, with a similar suite of design tools and added user-friendly features. It’s a good fit for individuals who want a budget-friendly alternative without sacrificing functionality.

Affinity Designer boasts a 1,000,000% zoom, which puts it squarely in the CAD realm. If that’s too fine a resolution, you can set the levels you prefer. The other noteworthy feature is its version history. You can go back up to 8,000 steps, making it an excellent choice when working with clients. That and the zoom put you in charge of revisions.

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Platform: Windows, Mac, iPad

6. Procreate

Procreate bills itself as a complete art studio, made exclusively for iPad and Apple Pencil support. It is a one-time purchase with no free trial or version available. You dive right into its vast array of templates, fonts, and customizable brushes. You can also bring your favorite Photoshop ones into the app, which will perform better with the Valkyrie engine. The developers went the extra mile to make it user-friendly.

One of its standout features is its ability to work in 3D and preview it in real time in AR. If you’ve been wanting to try your hand at animation, Procreate provides an excellent starting point. However, the app has so many tools and functions that it may seem overwhelming to beginners. If you select one type of brush, you’ll find several from which to choose. You’ll learn something every time you use it.

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Platform: iPad

7. Affinity Photo

Affinity Photo is a value-priced alternative to Adobe Photoshop or Adobe Illustrator for touch-up jobs on existing images. It works with layers and filters to create stunning effects, with both vector and raster images. The software also supports the SVG file format like CorelDRAW. While you can create templates, none are included with the program. However, it is lightweight with a generous 90-day free trial.

Affinity Photo has garnered many accolades in recent years because of its versatility and functionality. It packs a lot of features for the price. You can do sophisticated editing with its 360-degree image editing, panoramic stitching, and HDR merge. It provides real-time editing without the bloat. You can work with PSD files, too. It also supports nondestructive live filter layers for the ultimate in creativity.

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Platform: Windows, Mac, iPad

8. Canva

Canva is an all-around solution for creating a variety of projects, such as infographics, web design, or T-shirts. It uses an intuitive drag-and-drop interface that is easy to use for individuals with no previous experience in graphic design. The program has a huge selection of images, templates, backgrounds, and fonts to get the ball rolling. While Canva offers a number of these items for free, many of the images and graphics require in-app purchases.

Canva shines in that it can work with a broad range of industries, thanks to its huge template gallery. The sampling we viewed was professional-looking and offered excellent starting points for brainstorming. There are three pricing plans, including a free one for individuals and small teams. The paid plans offer the full suite of goodies, albeit only 100 GB of cloud storage.

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Platform: Web browser, Windows, Mac, Android, iOS

9. Gravit Designer

Gravit Designer is more than just an image editing software — it’s also a GNU image manipulation program and vector illustration software. The best part of Gravit Designer is how customizable and user-friendly it is, as its HTML-based program is compatible with most platforms. Gravit Designer includes 500 MB of cloud storage with the free plan and unlimited storage with the pro version.

Gravit Designer supports RGB color space, adding HSB and CMYK at the pro level. With the pro version, you can work with touch-enabled devices and work offline. The pro plan includes options to export up to 300 dpi, making it more useful if you do print work. Gravit Designers also boasts the ability to assign reviewer and approval roles in the pro version.

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Platform: Windows, Mac, Chrome OS, Linux

10. Adobe InDesign

Adobe InDesign is the company’s answer to a standalone desktop publishing program. While you can use it with other Adobe programs, it speaks a different language that some may find hard to use. It’s best suited for image-heavy posters, presentations, and documents. You can create a house style on the fly, making it an excellent timesaver.

The support documentation is helpful. However, it is a resource hog, like most Adobe programs. InDesign offers a full line of tools, from resizing to subject-aware text wrapping to color location. The software certainly packs the usefulness, but it sometimes seems hard to find the right setting. Users may find that they won’t tap into all of the available functions, which is a shame, given its cost.

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Platform: Windows, Mac

11. Pixlr

Pixlr is an image editing web app you can use in your browser for desktop work or in mobile apps supported both in the iOS and Android platforms. It’s a basic program that is perfect if you need the essential editing tools covered without all the bells and whistles (and learning curves) of more sophisticated offerings.

Formerly a part of the Autodesk family, Pixlr is now on its own. It has some of the welcome features of many similar apps, including its ecosystem of complementary programs. It supports several file formats, including SVG and PSD. The price is right, too, for this web-based design app. It has a free trial and free version. Unfortunately, the free version is quite ad-heavy.

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Platform: Cloud, web-based, iPad, Android

12. Crello

Crello is an excellent choice for a personal video editing app that has all your social media needs covered, whether your platform of choice is YouTube, Square, Instagram, or Twitter. It has a decent lineup of drawing tools for animation and photo or video editing. If marketing is your vibe, you can also create brand kits, remove backgrounds, and send out team invitations with the pro version.

The free version of Crello has a generous list of perks, including access to its unlimited image library and over 50,000 templates. You’re limited to five downloads a month. The premium plan gives you unlimited downloads. Crello is accessible on just about any platform or on the web, making it a versatile marketing solution.

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Platform: Windows, Mac, Linux, web-based, Android, iOS

13. PhotoScape

PhotoScape is a free image editing software that covers the bases with a basic toolbox of drawing tools. It’s easy to use with its drag-and-drop interface. If you just need simple tasks done, like resizing or cropping, it’ll get the job done quickly and painlessly. It also includes several batch functions to streamline your work, including minor editing and renaming files.

The developers also offer an upgraded version of the program, PhotoScape X, and a paid PhotoScape Pro X, which expands its compatibility with Mac. PhotoScape brings animation effects, more filters, macros, added frames, and a merge to HDR function to the table. It is a one-time purchase through the Microsoft Store or Apple Store.

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Platform: Windows, Mac (PhotoScape X and X Pro)

14. Vectr

Vectr is another free tool that you can use online or in one of several desktop options. Its focus is vector graphics and typography, as the name suggests. The app is easy to use out of the box. Otherwise, it has an extensive library of guides and tutorials to walk you through anything you need to do. It is best suited for individuals that just require a simple interface without a lot of bells and whistles.

The compatibility is superb, with versions available for most operating systems and an online option. Vectr does require a reliable internet connection to auto-sync. You can collaborate quickly with a shared URL. The graphics are clear and sharp since Vectr doesn’t rely on pixels for graphic creation.

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Platform: Windows, Mac, web-based, Linux, Chrome OS

15. Krita

Krita is an open-source digital art software that works with a variety of media, including animation, BMP files, and 2D drawing. It’s powerful and a great value as a free tool. It handles photo editing basics well, albeit with a dated UI that isn’t always intuitive. Krita is best suited for individuals who are new to illustration and want to get their feet wet without getting a subscription offering.

The platform will appeal to digital artists because those are the people behind the project. Krita has a decent lineup of brushes, vector tools, and brush stabilizers. The developers update the platform often, which is both good and bad. Unfortunately, there isn’t complete documentation to explain all the new features as they come on board. That said, it is a great learning tool.

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Platform: Windows, Mac, web-based, Linux

16. Inkscape

Inkscape offers an open-source vector graphics tool that packs a lot of functionality into a free program. The trick is learning it since the UI isn’t as intuitive as it is in paid programs. However, the developers provide documentation and a forum for answers. It’s an excellent companion software for similar programs like Adobe Illustrator because of its flexibility and file support.

Inkscape has a lot going for it, particularly because it’s free. It can import AI and CorelDRAW files. Its compatibility across platforms makes it an excellent collaboration tool that does not rely on proprietary formats. While it’s not pretty, it’s functional.

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Platform: Windows, Mac, web-based, Linux

17. GIMP

GIMP has come a long way as one of the first open-source graphic design software programs. Its strength is in photo editing, whether it’s a quick fix or a redesign. It’s a lightweight alternative to heavy hitters, such as Adobe Photoshop. GIMP provides much of the same functionality for free and has a customizable workspace with user-friendly navigation.

GIMP usually plays nice with Photoshop files. However, Photoshop updates its platform more frequently, causing compatibility issues. The support with GIMP is outstanding. The documentation, knowledge base, and community are very helpful. That’s a good thing, too. While it’s robust, GIMP has a steep learning curve, which is often the case in open-source software.

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Platform: Windows, Mac, Linux

Choosing the best graphic design software for your needs

When you look for the best graphic design software, you’ll find everything from free, open-source, web-based offerings to full-blown image editing programs with steep learning curves that make them suitable for professionals — and everything in-between.

As you consider which software to go with, start with your current needs and what capabilities you anticipate as you grow your business and skill set. Many software packages are expensive, particularly those using subscription models. Buy for what you need to find the best value with these programs.

Features, such as real-time collaboration, version history, and master page setups, are most useful for businesses to work efficiently with their clients. Most of the platforms on our list include the basic functionality of design tools, such as the ability to resize, image editing, gradients, and overlays.

If you found this article helpful, we encourage you to share it on your social media platforms—because sharing is caring! For more information about article submissions on our website, feel free to reach out to us via email.

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Written by RGB Web Tech

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What is Graphic Design? Beginner Guide

Last updated on January 19, 2025 by RGB Web Tech

What is Graphic Design? Beginner Guide

Graphic design is the art and practice of creating visual content to communicate messages. Designers use typography, imagery, color, and layout techniques to craft compelling and effective designs for various media, including print, digital, and environmental graphics. The primary goal is to convey information clearly and engagingly while evoking the desired emotional response from the audience. Graphic design encompasses a wide range of applications, from advertising and branding to web design and product packaging. It requires a blend of creativity and technical skills, often involving software like Adobe Creative Suite. Effective graphic design is essential for businesses and organizations to establish their identity, attract customers, and deliver their messages efficiently. It combines aesthetics and functionality, making it a crucial element in modern visual communication.

Contents Overview

What is the Main purpose of graphic design?

The main purpose of graphic design is to communicate messages visually in a clear, engaging, and effective manner. It involves the strategic use of typography, imagery, color, and layout to convey information and evoke specific responses from the audience. Graphic design aims to inform, persuade, and captivate viewers, making it a crucial tool for businesses and organizations. It helps establish brand identity, attract and retain customers, and enhance the overall user experience across various media, including print, digital, and environmental graphics. Ultimately, the goal of graphic design is to deliver a message that resonates with the target audience and achieves the desired outcome.

What are the Elements of Graphic Design?

Graphic design relies on several key elements to create visually appealing and effective designs. These elements include:

What are the Principles of Graphic Design?

The principles of graphic design are fundamental guidelines that help designers create visually appealing and effective compositions. These principles include:

What are the tools of graphic design?

Graphic designers use a variety of tools to create their work. These tools can be broadly categorized into software, hardware, and traditional tools. Here's a comprehensive list:

Software Tools

1. Adobe Creative Suite:

2. CorelDRAW: A vector graphics editor used for design and illustration.

3. Sketch: A digital design tool for creating interfaces and user experiences.

4. Figma: A collaborative interface design tool used for prototyping and UI/UX design.

5. Affinity Designer: A vector graphic design software alternative to Adobe Illustrator.

6. Canva: An online platform for creating social media graphics, presentations, posters, and other visual content.

7. Procreate: A digital illustration app for iPad, popular among illustrators and artists.

8. GIMP: An open-source image editor similar to Adobe Photoshop.

Hardware Tools

1. Computer: A powerful desktop or laptop is essential for running graphic design software.

2. Graphics Tablet: Devices like Wacom tablets allow for precise drawing and illustration directly into software.

3. Monitor: High-resolution monitors with accurate color representation are crucial for design work.

4. Scanner: Used to digitize sketches, drawings, or printed materials.

5. Printer: High-quality printers are essential for producing physical copies of designs.

Traditional Tools

1. Sketchbooks and Paper: For brainstorming, sketching ideas, and initial drafts.

2. Pencils and Pens: Essential for drawing, sketching, and inking designs.

3. Markers and Brushes: Used for adding color and texture to sketches and illustrations.

4. Rulers and Compasses: For creating precise lines, shapes, and measurements in traditional design work.

Online Resources and Libraries

1. Stock Photo Websites: Platforms like Shutterstock, Unsplash, and Adobe Stock provide high-quality images for use in designs.

2. Font Libraries: Websites like Google Fonts, Adobe Fonts, and DaFont offer a wide range of typefaces for various design projects.

3. Color Palettes: Tools like Adobe Color help designers choose and create harmonious color schemes.

What are the Types of Graphic Design?

Graphic design encompasses a wide range of specializations, each serving different purposes and industries. Here are some of the main types of graphic design:

Common graphic design jobs

Graphic design offers a variety of career opportunities across different industries. Here are some common graphic design jobs:

What does a graphic designer do?

A graphic designer uses visual elements to create designs that communicate messages effectively and aesthetically. Their responsibilities can vary widely depending on the specific job and industry but generally include the following tasks:

FAQs

1. What is graphic design?

Answer : Graphic design is the art and practice of creating visual content to communicate messages. It involves the use of typography, imagery, color, and layout techniques to produce designs for various media, including print, digital, and environmental graphics.

2. What does a graphic designer do?

Answer : A graphic designer creates visual content to communicate messages effectively and aesthetically. They work on projects such as logos, brochures, websites, advertisements, and packaging. Their tasks include concept development, creating designs using software, selecting colors and fonts, and collaborating with clients and other professionals.

3. What software do graphic designers use?

Answer : Graphic designers commonly use software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. Other popular tools include CorelDRAW, Sketch, Figma, Affinity Designer, Canva, and Procreate.

4. What are the key elements of graphic design?

Answer : The key elements of graphic design include line, shape, color, texture, space, form, typography, balance, contrast, hierarchy, alignment, and repetition. These elements work together to create visually appealing and effective designs.

5. What are the principles of graphic design?

Answer : The principles of graphic design include balance, contrast, emphasis, movement, repetition, proportion, alignment, unity, variety, and hierarchy. These principles guide the organization and arrangement of design elements to achieve a cohesive and effective visual composition.

6. How do I become a graphic designer?

Answer : To become a graphic designer, you typically need a combination of education and practical experience. Many graphic designers have a degree in graphic design or a related field. Building a strong portfolio, learning design software, and gaining experience through internships or freelance work are also important steps.

7. What is the difference between UI and UX design?

Answer : UI (User Interface) design focuses on the visual aspects of a product, such as layout, colors, and typography. UX (User Experience) design, on the other hand, is concerned with the overall feel of the product, including usability, accessibility, and the user's interaction with the product. Both UI and UX designers work together to create seamless and enjoyable user experiences.

8. What is a brand identity?

Answer : Brand identity is the collection of visual elements that represent a brand, including its logo, color palette, typography, imagery, and overall style. It helps to create a cohesive and recognizable image for the brand, distinguishing it from competitors.

9. How important is color in graphic design?

Answer : Color is a critical element in graphic design as it influences mood, perception, and brand recognition. It can attract attention, convey emotions, and create visual harmony. Understanding color theory and how colors interact is essential for effective design.

10. What is the role of typography in graphic design?

Answer : Typography involves the selection and arrangement of type to make written language legible, readable, and visually appealing. It plays a crucial role in establishing hierarchy, setting the tone, and enhancing the overall aesthetic of a design.

11. What are some common graphic design jobs?

Answer : Common graphic design jobs include graphic designer, art director, creative director, UI/UX designer, web designer, motion graphic designer, brand identity designer, illustrator, packaging designer, publication designer, environmental graphic designer, and marketing designer.

12. What is the difference between raster and vector graphics?

Answer : Raster graphics are made up of pixels and are resolution-dependent, meaning they can lose quality when scaled. Examples include photographs and digital paintings. Vector graphics, on the other hand, are created using mathematical equations and can be scaled indefinitely without losing quality. Examples include logos and illustrations created in Adobe Illustrator.

Conclusion

Graphic design is a dynamic and multifaceted field that plays a crucial role in today's visual communication landscape. By combining artistic creativity with technical skills, graphic designers create compelling visual content that informs, persuades, and captivates audiences across various media. Understanding the elements and principles of design, mastering essential tools, and staying updated with industry trends are vital for success in this profession.

Graphic design encompasses diverse specializations, including branding, marketing, web design, and environmental graphics, each requiring a unique blend of creativity and technical expertise. Whether crafting a logo that defines a brand's identity or designing a user interface that enhances digital experiences, graphic designers shape the way we perceive and interact with the world around us.

In an increasingly visual culture, the demand for skilled graphic designers continues to grow. Aspiring designers must cultivate their skills, build a strong portfolio, and stay adaptable to the ever-evolving design landscape. Ultimately, graphic design is about solving problems through visual communication, making it an indispensable discipline in our modern, visually-driven society.

If you found this article helpful, we encourage you to share it on your social media platforms—because sharing is caring! For more information about article submissions on our website, feel free to reach out to us via email.

Send an email

Written by RGB Web Tech

Latest Technology Trends

Latest technology trends shaping the future, including AI advancements, blockchain innovation, 5G connectivity, IoT integration, and sustainable tech solutions. Explore breakthroughs in quantum computing, cybersecurity, augmented reality, and edge computing. Stay ahead with insights into transformative technologies driving innovation across industries and revolutionizing how we live, work, and connect.