The 15 best graphic design software are adobe photoshop, adobe illustrator, coreldraw, sketch, affinity designer, gravit designer, inkscape, canva, figma, gimp, blender, xara designer pro x, procreate, crello and design wizard. Graphic design is an essential tool in the creation of any visual content, ranging from social media posts, company logos, website designs to product packaging and marketing campaigns.
However, choosing the right software for the job can be challenging considering the plethora of options available. Therefore, we have compiled a list of the 15 best graphic design software to help you with the decision-making process. The list includes both premium and freemium software that cater to the needs of beginners, as well as professional designers.
So, whether you are an independent artist or a creative team in a company, there is a software for everyone on this list.
What Is Graphic Design Software?
Definition Of Graphic Design Software
Graphic design software is a digital tool for creating, editing, and manipulating visual elements to produce graphics that communicate ideas, emotions, or messages. It’s a type of software used by designers and graphics professionals to create eye-catching and compelling designs for various purposes, including branding, advertising, publishing, and social media.
Types Of Graphic Design Software
There are various types of graphic design software available in the market, each with its unique set of features and functions. Here are the most commonly used ones:
- Vector graphic design software: This type of software creates images and graphics using mathematical algorithms. Vector graphics are scalable, meaning they can be enlarged without losing quality, making them ideal for logos, icons, and other graphics.
- Raster graphic design software: This software uses pixels to create images and graphics, making them ideal for digital art, photo editing, and web graphics. However, raster images lose quality if enlarged beyond their original size.
- Desktop publishing software: This software focuses on manipulating text and images to produce print and digital publications, such as books, magazines, brochures, and newsletters.
- 3d graphic design software: As the name suggests, this software creates three-dimensional graphics and animations for game development, product design, and visual effects.
- Photo editing software: This software is specifically designed to edit and enhance digital photos. It allows you to adjust colors, brightness, and contrast, remove blemishes, and add special effects.
- Ui/ux design software: User interface (ui) and user experience (ux) design software focus on designing and prototyping interactive experiences, such as websites and mobile apps.
- Motion graphics software: This software is used to create animations and videos, such as in commercials, movies, and television shows.
- Web design software: This software focuses on designing and developing websites, including visual elements, layout, and interactivity.
- Drawing and painting software: These types of software simulate traditional drawing and painting techniques, such as pencil, watercolor, and oil painting, in a digital environment.
- Cad software: Computer-aided design (cad) software is used by architects, engineers, and designers to create precise technical drawings, schematics, and models in a digital environment.
Graphic design software offers a range of tools and features that allow designers to create stunning visual graphics. Which software to use depends on the project’s requirements, the designer’s level of expertise, and the artistic vision they want to express.
Criteria For Choosing The Best Graphic Design Software
When it comes to selecting the best graphic design software, it’s important to consider a few factors. Here are some key criteria to keep in mind:
Functionality
Functionality is crucial when selecting graphic design software. You should look for a software that can handle a wide range of tasks and projects. Consider the following:
- The ability to import/export files in various formats such as png, jpeg, psd, and ai.
- A range of tools for creating designs, such as drawing tools, brushes, and shape tools.
- A variety of typography options, including access to a broad library of fonts or the ability to import your own fonts.
- Support for image manipulation, such as image cropping, resizing, and color correction.
Usability
Your graphic design software should have an intuitive interface, allowing you to easily navigate the tools and features. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- The software should be easy to use and have a user-friendly design.
- It should have a straightforward learning curve, allowing you to quickly get started.
- The interface should allow you to quickly switch between tools and customize the layout to your preference.
Affordability
When selecting software, keep in mind that graphic design software can vary in price range. Keep in mind that:
- Some software can be expensive, but it might have more advanced features.
- Some cheaper or free software might lack some of the more advanced features.
- It’s important to find a balance between cost and functionality to meet your needs.
Top 5 Free Graphic Design Software
Overview Of 5 Of The Best Free Graphic Design Software Out There
Whether you’re a graphic design student, a freelancer, or a professional, you need reliable software that can help you design stunning visuals. Fortunately, there are numerous free graphic design software programs out there that can help you to achieve your goals with ease.
Here are five of the best graphic design software programs that are available free of charge.
Inkscape
Inkscape is an open-source vector graphics editor that is used for creating a wide range of graphics, including illustrations, logos, and complex diagrams. This software has numerous features that help to make it one of the most popular free graphic design software programs available today.
Here are some of its key features and benefits:
- Provides professional-grade design tools for fast and efficient results.
- Supports various file formats, including svg, pdf, eps, and ai.
- Comes with a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate and use.
- Offers a wide range of features, including shape tools, text tools, and 3d boxes.
Gimp
Gimp, which stands for gnu image manipulation program, is a versatile image editing software that can help you to create stunning visuals. Here are some of its key features and benefits:
- Supports a wide range of file formats, including jpeg, gif, and png.
- Comes with various tools for advanced image editing such as selection, layers, masks, and filters.
- Offers a user-friendly interface that is easy to use.
- Has a wide range of plugins and add-ons that can help you to customize your workflow.
Canva
Canva is a web-based graphic design software that is easy to use, making it ideal for beginners. Here are some of its key features and benefits:
- Offers easy-to-use templates and design tools that help to make creating graphics a breeze.
- Supports various file formats and allows you to export your designs in print-ready formats.
- Comes with a built-in image library.
- Supports collaborative design projects making it perfect for teams.
Vectr
Vectr is a free, web-based vector graphics software that allows you to create visual designs with ease. Here are some of its key features and benefits:
- Gives you access to numerous design tools that help to make creating graphics easy.
- Supports various file formats, including svg, png, and jpeg.
- Offers an intuitive user interface that is easy to use.
- Allows for real-time collaboration with team members.
Gravit Designer
Gravit designer is a powerful vector graphics software that is suitable for both novice and seasoned graphic designers. Here are some of its key features and benefits:
- Comes with a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate.
- Allows you to work with multiple files at once, making it ideal for teams.
- Supports various file formats, including pdf, svg, and png.
- Offers numerous design tools, including shape tools, vector editing tools, and typography tools.
Top 5 Paid Graphic Design Software
Overview Of 5 Of The Best Paid Graphic Design Software Available
Need software that can help you create incredible graphic designs? Then, you need to find the right software that can meet your graphic design needs. Here, we’ve listed the top 5 paid graphic design software that can take your designs to the next level.
Adobe Photoshop
Adobe photoshop is one of the best graphic design software out there, used widely by professionals worldwide. It is an extremely versatile software that can be used for both photo editing and graphic designing.
Key features:
- Advanced layers and masks.
- A wide range of filters and effects.
- Huge library of ready-to-use graphics and images.
- User-friendly interface.
- Large collection of editing tools.
Adobe Illustrator
Another fantastic graphic design software owned by adobe is adobe illustrator, specifically designed for vector-based graphic design projects.
Key features:
- User-friendly interface.
- A wide range of graphics tools.
- Great for creating logos and icons.
- Excellent text manipulation tools.
- Easy-to-use pen and brush tools.
Sketch
If you are an apple user, sketch is the best graphic design software you can invest in. The software has an intuitive ui and a powerful set of design tools that help you create professional designs in no time.
Key features:
- Easy-to-use vector editing tools.
- Shared styles and symbols for consistent designing.
- A wide range of plugins to choose from.
- Grids and layouts for precision designing.
- Numerous integrations.
Coreldraw
Coreldraw is a popular graphic design software that’s been in the market for more than two decades now. With its array of tools, it is a popular choice for businesses and professionals worldwide.
Key features:
- Raster to vector conversion.
- A wide range of unique layout tools.
- Large collection of ready-to-use templates.
- Professional-grade photo editing tools.
- User-friendly interface.
Affinity Designer
Another fantastic graphic design software that has been gaining popularity over recent years is affinity designer. The software is an ideal choice for both beginners and professionals alike.
Key features:
- Fast and responsive vector editing.
- Massive collection of customizable shapes.
- A wide range of typography tools.
- Great for creating web graphics.
- User-friendly interface.
Top 5 Online Graphic Design Software
Overview Of 5 Of The Best Online Graphic Design Software
Looking for the best online graphic design software? Look no further! Here are our top 5 recommendations to make your design journey a breeze.
Canva
Canva is one of the most popular online graphic design tools. With its user-friendly interface, canva makes graphic design easy, even for beginners. Here are some of canva’s key features and benefits:
- Thousands of customizable templates
- Easy drag-and-drop interface
- Large library of stock images and design elements
- Ability to upload your own images
- Collaboration tools to work with your team seamlessly
- Option to download designs in various file formats
Adobe Spark
Adobe spark is another great online graphic design tool that is suitable for both professionals and amateurs. Here’s what sets adobe spark apart from the rest:
- Free and premium options available
- Wide range of templates for social media, web pages, video, and more
- Built-in animation and video-making features
- Massive library of free stock photos and illustrations
- Ability to upload your own brand assets
- Integration with other adobe creative cloud tools
Piktochart
Piktochart is the perfect software for creating infographics and data visualizations. Here are some reasons why you should choose piktochart:
- Simple and intuitive drag-and-drop interface
- Over 100 ready-to-use infographic templates
- Ability to customize colors, fonts, and sizes
- Large library of icons, images, and charts
- Option to import data from excel or google sheets
- Collaboration with team members in real-time
Figma
Figma is a popular online graphic design tool that focuses on team collaboration and design handoff. Here are some of figma’s unique features:
- Real-time collaboration tools with team members
- Ability to track design changes and version history
- Access designs from anywhere with cloud-based storage
- Component library to reuse design elements
- Handoff designs to developers with design specs
- Inspect designs with pixel-perfect accuracy
Gravit Designer
Gravit designer is a powerful design tool that is free for everyone to use. Here’s why it’s a great option for your design needs:
- Vector-based software for creating logos, icons, and illustrations
- Option to use on mac, windows, linux, or in your browser
- Easy-to-use interface with a variety of design tools
- Ability to export designs in multiple formats
- Library of high-quality design assets
- Integration with other design tools
As you can see, each online graphic design software has its own set of features and benefits. It’s important to consider your design needs and budget before choosing the software that’s right for you.
FAQs
What Are The Top 3 Graphic Design Software?
The top 3 graphic design software are adobe photoshop, illustrator, and indesign.
How Do I Choose The Best Graphic Design Software?
When choosing the best graphic design software, consider your specific needs, budget, skill level, and preferred design style.
Can I Use Graphic Design Software For Free?
Yes, there are free graphic design software options such as gimp, canva, and inkscape, which offer basic design capabilities without a price tag.
Conclusion
As a graphic designer, choosing the right software is crucial for creating stunning designs that meet your client’s objectives. After careful research, we have compiled a comprehensive list of the 15 best graphic design software options available on the market today.
From industry favorites like adobe illustrator and photoshop to new, innovative programs like sketch and affinity designer, each software has its own unique features and benefits. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, there is a software out there that can meet your specific needs and help you take your designs to the next level.
The software you choose will depend on your workflow, budget, and personal preferences. So, take a look at our list, compare features, and choose the software that’s right for you. We hope our list has helped you find the perfect graphic design software to elevate your design game and help you create stunning works of art.
