9 Best Graphic Design Tools to Use in 2024
These words are for you if you are an experienced designer or a beginner starting his way in design. The tools available to you depend on your capability and needs.
This blog is about the nine most common graphic design tools. Here, we will see their main features, pros and cons, and compatibility with different platforms. There are also some more insights. So stay tuned until the end.
Table of Contents
What is Graphic Design Software?
Designers and photo editors use Graphic Design software to edit images or create artwork. These programs allow you to change colours in pictures, resize/crop them, remove some aspects from compositions, add text, etc. In other words – it’s a must-have for any graphic designer!
Graphic Design Software has two types: raster-based (which focuses on visual improvement) and vector-based (used when creating things like logos). However, some applications can do both raster and vector editing at once!
What To Look For In a Design Tool
Every design tool has some distinctive feature that makes that tool unique and valuable. Features like interface, functionality, or compatibility directly impact your workflow, productivity, and work quality. That’s why, when choosing a design tool, you must consider the following:
User Interface (UI)
User Interface (UI) is the visual layout of the tools. You must use a tool that has a well-organised and intuitive interface. It will help you find tools and navigate easily during the editing process.
User Experience (UX)
One of the essential components of a good user experience is a clean user interface. If you are pleased with the interface, you will likely have a positive user experience. Apart from this, your software must have excellent performance speed, a customisable interface, guided tour options, compatibility with multiple operating systems, and many more features. All these will streamline your workflow and improve your productivity.
Functionality & Features
Different types of editing techniques require different types of tools. The functions of all these tools are also unique. When selecting the program, ensure it contains a comprehensive set of tools. That means it must have-
- Design tools: Shape tools, selection tools, brush tools, paint tools, text tools, and so on.
- Image editing tools: Brightness, contrast, shadow, Exposure, and other adjustment tools. Also, colour correction tools, healing brushes, filters, effects, and more.
Apart from those mentioned earlier, there are other essential tools. You must also look for advanced features like masking, layer styles, blend modes, 3D tools, etc.
File Compatibility
Your selected tool must support importing and exporting various file formats. If you intend to use raster-based software, it must support standard image formats such as JPEG, PNG, TIFF, and GIF. Supporting SVG, EPS, and PDF file formats is essential for vector-based tools. Choosing programs with comprehensive file compatibility will allow you to work on diverse projects.
AI Integration
Almost all the latest design tools have already integrated AI into their software. Tools with AI support can help you with essential advanced editing. AI can also help you to work more efficiently and increase your creativity.
Regular Updates
The developers of the design tools are continuously working on improving the performance of the tools. They introduce new features, fix bugs, integrate AI, and do other tasks to keep the tools updated with the latest technology. Ensure the tool you select provides regular updates for a better user experience.
Community & Support
Design tools with active community support is another critical considerable factor. Usually, most graphic design tools have steep learning curves. Mastering these tools requires tutorial videos, blogs, and other resources. Community in different forums and social media platforms also comes in great help for solving various problems.
Free Trial Offer
Many design software offer trial options for their users. Trying out the trial version gives you an idea of its features, tools, performance, and other factors. Hence, before purchasing or subscribing to tools, always look for free trials.
Cost
Graphic design tools are of different types. Some are free, while others are subscription-based. Some also offer a one-time purchase option. Typically, premium version tools have more advanced features and functions than free ones.
Therefore, you must consider your budget when selecting the tool. Cross-check the features between the free version and the paid version. After that, evaluate whether getting the paid version would be worth it.
Below are the 9 Best Graphic Design Tools In 2024
In detail, let’s check out the top 9 graphic design software programs trending in 2024.
Adobe Illustrator
Adobe Illustrator is one of the most popular graphic design tools. Professional graphic designers use this tool to create logos, infographics, icons, artwork, and other materials. This vector-based graphic design tool uses mathematical formulas instead of pixels. For this reason, you can seamlessly resize vector images or designs without losing their quality and sharpness.
The latest version of Adobe Illustrator incorporated artificial intelligence and was named Firefly. This cutting-edge AI technology allows the creation of vector images through text prompts. You can use AI to recolour existing artwork, add effects, and do much more. Besides AI technology, it has a wide range of fundamental to advanced editing tools required to create professional-quality graphic artwork.
Key Features
- Vector-based editing ensures infinite scalability without losing quality
- Ensure unified workflow through seamless integration with other Adobe Creative Cloud apps
- Rich library of brushes, symbols, and effects
- Advanced tools for precise illustrations
- Highly compatible with all file formats
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔Abundance of photo correction and manipulation tools ✔Allows creation of realistic mock-ups ✔Organised interface with a lot of learning resources ✔Great tool for creating mobile and web design ✔Wide range of drawing and typography tools ✔Rasterised text can be converted to an editable object ✔ Libraries and Cloud Documents can be synced ✔Generation of vector art using text prompts | ❌perpetual-license option missing ❌Premium features are expensive ❌Interface can be confusing sometimes ❌Steep learning curve |
Platform
Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and web browsers.
Canva
Canva is an easy-to-use graphic design tool. For those who don’t know much about graphic design, it’s the ideal solution. It has millions of layouts in its library and also provides other elements like pictures, illustrations, icons, fonts, etcetera. These templates can be used free of charge; one can personalise them with their images, text, or colours.
With Canva, you can produce professional social media graphics, posters, infographics, banners, visual web resources, blogs, etc. The interface uses a simple drag-and-drop system where you must select your desired template and then customise it according to your needs. Nevertheless, some features, such as the capability to draw freehand lines or shapes, may be lacking, but if ignored, this would be the fastest way to make great designs.
Key Features
- User-friendly interface
- Drag-and-drop functionality makes design creation easy
- A vast library of images, icons, fonts, and templates
- Smart AI can generate text, create pictures, remove backgrounds, etc.
- Teams can work together online in real-time
- Offer both free and paid resources
- Support basic image formats like PNG, JPG, and PDF
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔Great tool for beginners & non-graphic designers ✔Allows integration of various apps ✔Online based graphic design tool ✔Library containing tons of templates ✔Easy templates drag & drop feature to create designs ✔AI integration makes designing easy | ❌Don’t have many advanced features ❌Advanced features are primarily for premium subscribers ❌Co-editing doesn’t show cursors of collaborators |
Platform
Canva is a web-based application. That’s why it does not require any particular platform to function. You can use Canva through a web browser on any device with an internet connection.
Adobe Photoshop
Adobe Photoshop is an industry-standard graphic design tool. Almost all professional graphic designers and digital artists consider it the best graphic design tool. Being a raster-based tool, it controls every pixel in the images. That’s why it is ideal for photo retouching, precise editing, manipulation and other complex tasks.
It has a wide range of tools for selecting and visual enhancement. It also has advanced tools for creating masks, removing backgrounds, and other editing techniques. The integration of AI has made editing more manageable. However, mastering Photoshop takes a long time, primarily because of its pen tool.
It's better to collaborate with a professional for professional quality editing needs. MaskingAid is one of the leading photo editing outsourcing companies. They have a team of experienced graphics designers skilled at using Photoshop. You can use their versatile image editing services to get premium-quality images at an affordable price.
Key Features
- Raster-based editing makes it ideal for photo editing, manipulation, and creating digital artwork.
- Advanced selection and masking tools for professional quality results
- Massive collection of brushes, filters, and effects
- Powerful AI integration helps automate editing tasks
- Allows editing of 3D images
- Integration with other Adobe Creative Cloud applications
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔Layers allow non-destructive editing ✔Multiple photo correction and manipulation tools ✔Plenty of drawing and typography tools ✔ Well-organised interface ✔Libraries and cloud documents can be synchronised ✔A lot of learning materials | ❌Lack of perpetual-license option ❌Expensive premium features ❌Mastering the Pen tool is challenging ❌Not suitable for vector-based design work |
Platform
Windows and macOS. It also has a version for iPad.
Gimp
GIMP is an open-source graphic design software program. This free graphic design tool is considered one of the popular alternatives to Adobe Photoshop. It has advanced features and tools just like other popular tools. It is also a raster-based editor. That’s why you can use it as a simple image editor or do advanced editing, like manipulation.
Key Features
- Powerful photo retouching and editing ability
- It has numerous advanced tools.
- Allow editing in layers and the creation of masks for complex editing needs.
- Supports a wide range of file formats like JPEG, PNG, and TIFF
- Regular updates from the open-source community
- It has a full range of photo editing tools
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔Open source & Free tool ✔Can be customised as per needs ✔Adaptable to multiple platforms ✔Interface is re-arrangeable ✔Supports multiple plugins and scripts | ❌Steep learning curve ❌ Third-party support is limited ❌Compatibility issues for certain file formats or plugins |
Platform
Windows, Mac, and Linux.
Affinity
Are you looking for an affordable alternative to Adobe Illustrator? Then try out Affinity. It is a vector-based editing software similar to Adobe Illustrator. Vector artists and freelance graphic designers love this software for creating logos, UI designs, icons, concept art, mock-ups, etc.
Its intuitive and easy-to-use interface makes it an excellent option for beginner designers. It has almost every advanced feature required for professional-quality editing, such as vector pen, shape drawing tools, custom brushes, personalised artboards, and many more. Editors can adjust, perform curve edits and apply effects in real-time. In short, it is the best low-cost vector editing software.
Key Features
- Customisable interface for workspace convenient
- Advanced quality vector tools for detailed and precise editing
- Non-destructive editing
- Real-time performance offers top-notch user experience
- It can be seamlessly integrated with other Affinity products
- Lifetime access with a one-time purchase
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔Multiple ways for creating vector graphics ✔Custom Brushes can be created or imported from Adobe Photoshop ✔Supports multiple file formats | ❌Lacks some advanced features available in other popular tools ❌Maintaining artboards can be confusing |
Platform
Mac, Windows, and iPad.
Inkscape
Inkscape is one of the best free graphic design tools. It is also an open-source graphic design platform similar to GIMP. However, it is a vector-based editing tool. You can create scalable graphics such as logos, icons, and complex illustrations. It has advanced tools similar to those of other premium software.
The best part of this software is that you can use its advanced features for free. Despite being free, its functionality and work quality are top-notch. If you are on a budget and looking for free vector graphic software, this one is for you.
Key Features
- Best for vector designs like logos, icons, illustrations, etc.
- Infinite scalability without losing quality
- Advanced drawing tools such as basic shapes, pen tools, calligraphy tools, etc.
- Allow text and effect imports
- Supports several file formats, including SVG, EPS, and PDF
- Regular updates from the community
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔Free & Open source tool ✔Powerful vector tools ✔Automated pattern generation ✔Has advanced editing tools like path, drawing, stroke, typography, etc. | ❌Beginners or non-designers may find its learning curve steep ❌Lack some advanced features and tools |
Platform
Windows, Mac, and Linux.
CorelDRAW
CorelDRAW is another popular alternative to Adobe Illustrator. You can use this program to create vector illustrations such as logos, icons, etc., and edit your photographs. It has a vast range of advanced tools and an intuitive interface. One of its best tools is the Painterly Brush Tool.
This tool has a brush library with a wide range of brushes. Each of them has a different texture. You can use those brushes to create artwork that looks like paintings. You can also use this tool to transform vector shapes like brushstrokes. The magic of this tool doesn’t end here. You can also customise your artwork's colour, opacity, and other features.
However, it has a steep learning curve. Don’t worry; numerous tutorials and resources help you with editing.
Key Features
- Support editing of both raster and vector images
- Wide range of tools for vector illustration and photo editing
- Advanced Typography tools for text manipulation
- Non-destructive editing
- Compatible with multiple file formats such as SVG, PDF, AI and EPS
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔Has unique and professional features ✔Customisable interface ✔ Reasonable subscription cost ✔Allow font import from Google ✔Numerous presets & styles available ✔Rich online library of customisable templates | ❌Steep learning curve ❌A few issues with usability ❌Inconvenient for individuals who are used to the Adobe workflow ❌A few issues with usability ❌Not directly compatible with Extensis Suitcase Fusion font manager |
Platform
Windows, Mac, and Web.
Sketch
Are you an Apple user?
Then, you will love Sketch as your graphic design tool.
Sketch is a vector-based graphic design software specially created for macOS users. You can use this multi-functional UX/UI design tool to create vector graphics, logos, icons, and user interfaces for websites and apps.
It has some advanced features you will not find in other programs—for example, the prototype tool. You can create your prototype design and test it on a Mac app, web browser, or iPhone app. You can also generate links to your prototypes to share through email or other tools. Inviting guests to test prototypes is possible, too.
It has a cloud-based sharing option and collaboration features that support working on projects as teams. One of the most exciting aspects of the collaboration tool is the ability to leave comments and feedback directly on the design within Sketch.
Key Features
- Top-notch performance
- Allows third-party integration
- Vector-based design tools create precise and scalable graphics
- Advanced tools for shapes, text, colour, and style
- Collaboration tools for team projects and feedback
- Symbol libraries allow the creation and management of reusable design elements
- Easy export options personalised for web and mobile interfaces
- Extensive editing control to boost workflow
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔Easy to use with zero learning curve ✔ Good range of features ✔Robust library of plugins ✔Great for teamwork ✔Files from Figma can be imported easily ✔Allow adding feedback directly on the design | ❌Only for macOS users ❌Lack some advanced illustration tools ❌Expensive for a single user |
Platform
Mac operating system, iPad, and iPhone.
Pixlr
Do you need simple graphic design tools as an alternative to Photoshop? Try out Pixlr.
Pixlr is a beginner-friendly editing program. You can use this for basic editing and quick adjustments. It has both free and premium versions. The free version has essential tools for creating visual marketing materials, like posters, banners, or thumbnails for blog articles.
Pixlr has separate software for manual editing, AI editing, background removal, etc. Their Pixlr E software is a clone of Photoshop. From tools to interfaces to features, everything is similar. If you want to automate your design work, try Pixlr Express. Its generative AI uses text-to-image prompts to create designs. It’s worth mentioning that you can save projects from both programs in a combined library.
Key Features
- It has a free version and a premium option with advanced features
- Clean and user-friendly interface
- There is a good range of tools for basic to moderate editing
- The web version allows the use of cloud storage for saving projects
- Offer multiple versions such as a web-based version, mobile apps, and AI photo editor (Pixlr Express)
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔Beginner-friendly tool ✔Offers a broad range of editing options ✔Large database of copyright-free images ✔Generative AI tools ✔Supports the creation of animated photos ✔Supports layers and masks | ❌Limited free templates & images ❌Dominated by ads ❌Lack of video editing elements ❌Projects need to be downloaded to the hard drive to save them |
Platform
Windows and the Web. It also has a mobile app in Play Store and App Store.
Final Thoughts
Finally, we have come to the end of our discussion. There are hundreds of graphic design software out there. Among them, we’ve discussed the top 9 popular ones.
There is software for your every need. If you have a budget issue, you can use the free one. If you value advanced features more, then get the paid one. Evaluate the editing required before you make your decision. The insights you have received from this article will help you choose the right tool.
Author Bio: Luisa Bell is a skilled content planner and writer who has worked in photography and e-commerce content for over six years. With a passion for writing engaging stories, she is great at giving audiences information that sticks with them. Luisa is an excellent addition to the Masking Aid team because she is dedicated to her work and strives for excellence.
