Here’s Kelly’s recommended Graphic Design Software
We’ve handpicked our favorite applications and want to show you the key differences.
by Kelly Hostetter / January 19, 2023
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Editor’s Conclusion Price & Terms Type # of Users Platforms Templates Collaboration Tools Organizing Tools Testing Tools Image Directory File Storage Community Data
10.0
  • Web-based
  • Vast pool of presets and community data
  • Unlimited collaborators & personal files
12 month plan: $12.00 per editor/mo.
Save 20% vs monthly plan of $15.00
Free starter version available
 Web-based Unlimited
[1]
9.5
  • Integrates with all Adobe Creative Cloud apps
  • Sophisticated design tools
  • 2M royalty-free images, vectors and footage
12 month plan: $20.99/mo.
Save 33% vs monthly plan of $31.49
 Installed Up to two
9.0
  • Powerful tools for professionals
  • Able to build advanced vector designs and illustrations
  • Effortless file management
12 month plan: $16.58/mo.
No monthly plan available
 Installed Up to two
[2]
8.5
  • Comprehensive, macOS-exclusive app
  • Affordable, yet equipped with cutting-edge design features
  • Highly advanced prototyping and collaboration tools
12 month plan: $8.25 per editor/mo.
Save 9% vs monthly plan of $9.00
 Installed Unlimited
8.0
  • Straightforward for beginngers and professionals
  • Some of best templates and stock files on the market
  • Few limitations on tools, able to use on most elements
12 month plan: $9.99 per person/mo.
Save 23% vs monthly plan of $12.99
Free version available
 Web-based Up to five
[3]
Editor’s Conclusion Price & Terms Type # of Users Platforms Templates Collaboration Tools Organizing Tools Testing Tools Image Directory File Storage Community Data
[1] Yes, in premium packages [2] Available in CorelDraw 22 and later versions [3] Premium files only available with paid versions
Questions We Usually Get
Which graphic design software is beginner-friendly?
Figma and Sketch are among the most straightforward graphic design programs with a relatively shallow learning curve. Most beginners should be able to master their main features with online tutorials and explainers in merely a couple of weeks.
How are professional graphic design applications different from beginners' versions?
Professional graphic design programs are typically equipped with far more comprehensive image databases, a more extensive collection of templates, and considerably more versatile tools that can be fine-tuned to cater to the specific needs of each user. On the other end, beginner graphic design applications offer limited functionalities but are usually either remarkably cheap or even free to download and use.
Are graphic design programs usable on smartphones or tablets?
Certain graphic design programs are compatible with Android and iOS devices, such as Adobe Photoshop.