The Best Graphic Design Software in 2022: A Ranking by Influencive Media
Graphic designers and indeed anyone who wants to create quality design should use the best graphic designing software. That means paying for it, which is well worth doing if you're in professional work where creativity matters most! The free options available still can't match up with the functionality or creative possibilities of premium programs such as Adobe Illustrator CC (which costs $30 per month).
With so many options to choose from, it can be hard deciding on the best software for you. But we've got your back! We'll help make this process as straightforward as possible by weighing up all of these factors: What kind of budget are you looking at? Do you need 3D models or graphics designs only and the learning curve associated with it?
So, let’s dive right into it.
Adobe Illustrator
Graphic designers will be hard-pressed to find a better software package than Adobe Illustrator. With tons of tools and features at their disposal, this program offers an unparalleled range for editing vector graphics in any way imaginable – from logos down to simple illustrations or graphics. It has been around since 1987 when it was first released by Adobe Inc. Available on PC/Macs alike alongside iPads too, there isn't anything not covered here that you could need if creating beautiful visual content.
Illustrator, the powerful and versatile graphics software used for all types of designs from art to creating content is now part of Adobe Creative Cloud. To make use of it most effectively it needs a subscription but benefits include automatic updates so you don't ever miss out on new features or capabilities while having full access anytime anywhere at your convenience! The only downside may be the price tag which can vary depending upon student discounts available through various outlets including university websites.
CorelDRAW
CorelDRAW fans are still going strong with the 2021 version of this popular software. The update added some major new features and improved on existing ones to make it more flexible for your needs, whether you're looking at drawing or designing graphics. You can choose between one-time payments as well as subscriptions so that there's never an issue when it is the time to decide how much money would be best used in supporting these products.
Some people like to say that CorelDRAW is easier than Adobe Illustrator, but both have tons of features and it's hard for us to decide which program has a better interface. The truth is you'll be expected to use Illustrator rather than CorelDRAW in most jobs since it is the market standard.
CorelDRAW is a great tool for both professionals and amateurs alike. If you're an experienced user, there's no reason why we wouldn't suggest trying out their free trial offer--you might just find that it suits your workflow by trying both out before making a decision.
Affinity Designer
With Adobe's subscription model being a little too pricy, there is an excellent alternative in Serif Affinity Designer. This powerful graphic design software can be purchased for a one-off payment and has features that come very close to Illustrator such as infinite redos or 1 million percent-plus zoom.
Affinity Designer is a great tool for those who work with both Illustrator AI and Photoshop PSD files. The software can run much faster than Adobe's other products, so you won't have to worry about compatibility issues when collaborating on projects or presenting your clients' work. You also get monthly updates as well. So, all in all, this is a great cheaper alternative.
Sketch
The Sketch is a great choice for UI designers looking to use lightweight software that has everything they need in one place. Though it doesn't offer as many features or have the depth of more advanced programs like Adobe Illustrator, sketch still offers all you'll ever want when designing user interfaces with its minimal interface and wide plugin library making this program perfect if your plan is specific only towards these tasks.
The new and improved software came with added features that allow for better collaboration. Developers can view, inspect or measure your Sketch designs in browsers on any operating system without charge.
Creative Cloud Express
The latest addition to Adobe's family of apps, Creative Cloud Express (or CCX) is a one-stop-shop for those who want basic photo/video editing tools. It can be used online or on mobile devices with iOS and Android operating systems. It has many features that were previously only available through other programs such as Photoshop.
Want to make your life easier? The app is free to download and use forever – for the basic tools. You can unlock more features if you sign up with a premium CC express account, which costs $9.99/£10 or a 99 cents monthly subscription.
Gravit Designer
Gravit Designer is the best free graphic design software specifically for vectors. With a clean and intuitive interface, it can cope with most jobs from icon creation to prototype illustrations or even animation drawing! You have access via Gravite Cloud anywhere you are whenever your work needs you to be. So, whether it’s at home or on an airplane during those long flights, the creativity will always stay right where you want: within reach!
Vecteezy
Vecteezy is a great tool to help you create your designs from scratch or modify pre-made ones. It is online software and is completely free. It has some nice features such as advanced transformations and keyboard shortcuts which make it easy for anyone with even just a basic graphic design skill set to use this website.
Vectr
Vectr is the complete toolkit for graphic designers who want to work collaboratively. Along with vector tools, filters and fonts it includes a great set of live collaboration options that make teaming up easy - you'll be able to view what they're doing while providing feedback on their creations.
There are various other softwares to help you design graphics. However, ultimately it all depends on how much work you’re willing to put in to advance your skillset. The choice of software is also dependent on use. If you’re considering to be a professional graphic designer or just do it as a pastime hobby, the choice of software will be accordingly.