In the digital world, graphic designing is a skill that is required. You can be either a professional designer, a small business owner, and a person who is crazy about creating pictures that are eye-catching, but the choice of software can save the day. However, there are many different ones, and what is the best one? In this article, we would examine the best graphic design software, what each offers and what its advantages and disadvantages are and hopefully make an informed choice.
Understanding Graphic Design Software
Graphic design software is a term used to describe programmes that enable the user to generate, edit and manipulate visual information. This may involve logos, posters, flyers, websites, social media graphics and a lot more. The appropriate software will be a factor of your requirements and the level of expertise as well as budget.
Key Features to Look for in Graphic Design Software
These features are what to be on the lookout of when hunting down the best graphic design software:
- User Friendliness: The interfaces are easy to use and allow a beginner to start easily.
- Versatility: Software to make raster (pixel-based) and scalable (vector-based) graphics.
- Compatibility: Can be used on your operating system of choice (Windows, Mac, Linux).
- File Support: Import and export a variety of file forms.
- Pricing: Free or paid and what is it with each.
- Community and Tutorials: Learning resources and learning support.
Top Graphic Design Software
Adobe Photoshop
Overview
Adobe Photoshop has frequently been described as the gold-standard in graphic design particularly in terms of photo editing and raster work. It is common among professionals all around the world even in the creative industry.
Features
- Powerful photo manipulation and editing.
- Supports both raster and vector graphics.
- Complete variety of brushes and filters.
- Close integration with other adobe software such as the illustrator and the InDesign.
Pros
- Standard in Industry with a huge number of users.
- New features with regular updates.
- Massive educational support materials and guidelines.
Cons
- The case of subscription-based pricing may be expensive.
- Longer learning curve amongst beginners.
Adobe Illustrator
Overview
Adobe illustrator is the software of choice should you want to concentrate on vectors graphics, which include logos, icons, and typography. It does a great job with scaled designs that do not degrade with scaling.
Features
- Vector-based design tools.
- Fine line drawing and typography.
- Integration with Adobe Creative Cloud.
- Exporting in print and web formats.
Pros
- Leading figure in industry in the area of vector graphics.
- Profitable professional design.
- Powerful creative tools.
Cons
- Photoshop subscription pricing.
- Requires time to master.
Affinity Designer
Overview
Affinity Designer has quickly gained momentum as a popular alternative to the offerings of Adobe, and is seen as a formidable and affordable solution by designers. It is ideal in both the vector and raster designing and has a smooth user experience.
Features
- One-time purchase (£54.99), no subscription.
- Both vector and raster graphics are supported.
- Clean, user-friendly interface.
- Compatibility with Adobe file formats.
Pros
- Freelancers and small businesses can afford it.
- Very good Mac and Windows PC performance.
- Constant upgrades and changes.
Cons
- Small community in comparison to Adobe.
- Certain features that are not available as in Illustrator.
CorelDRAW
Overview
CorelDRAW is an all-round graphic design suite that is mostly used, particularly in the print design and illustration. It is decades old with innovation to date.
Features
- Layout software and illustration software.
- High level of typography and colour controls.
- Accepts multi-pages.
- Professionally printable.
Pros
- Powerful print and layout design tools.
- There are flexible licensing.
- Windows compatible, now also Windows Mac compatible.
Cons
- To interface beginners can be overwhelmed.
- Windows is more mature than Mac version.
Canva
Overview
Canva is an excellent web-based solution to anyone who desires to make professional-looking designs in a short amount of time and without a significant experience. It is very popular in social media graphics, presentation and basic marketing materials.
Features
- Drag-and-drop interface.
- Ready to use templates in thousands.
- Team functionality.
- Free with premium.
Pros
- Extremely easy to use.
- Available in any internet-enabled device.
- Best with non-designers and small companies.
Cons
- Poor customisation in respect to professional software.
- Dependent on the internet.
Which Software is Best for Beginners?
Canva is a good starting point to beginners. It is easy, cost-effective and offers a quick method of creating refined designs without special skills.
In case you are interested in exploring more professional applications, one such application is Affinity Designer, which strikes a balance between power and usability with no need to pay a subscription fee every month as with Adobe products.
Which Software is Best for Professionals?
The professional graphic designers are more likely to use the Adobe Creative Cloud suite, especially Photoshop in editing photos and Illustrator in working with vectors. Its complete functions and integration capabilities make it suitable to the complicated projects and work with clients.
Budget-Friendly Options for Graphic Design
Freelancers or small business owners do not have the money to purchase monthly fees at Adobe.
The following are some of the low-cost alternatives:
- Affinity Designer: It is a one-time payment with strong capabilities.
- Inkscape: Open-source, free-to-use, vector graphics editor.
- GIMP: Open-source version of Photoshop that is used to edit raster.
- Canva: Free with paid upgrades.
Kasia Giska