Best graphic design programs: which to choose and why

Digital graphics is an essential tool for designers, photographers, creatives, and marketing professionals. The choice of the right software can make the difference between an efficient workflow and unproductive project management. There are numerous programs. about graphics, some more suitable for professionals , others thought for beginners or for specific needs such as photo editing or vector design.

In this guide, we analyze the best software available , highlighting its features, advantages, disadvantages, and costs.

How to choose the right graphic software?

Choosing the best graphic design program it depends on your needs and the type of work tasks you need to carry out. Here are some. key factors to consider:

• Experience : Are you a beginner or a professional?

• Budget Are you looking for a free software or are you willing to pay for advanced features?

• Type of work Do you need tools for photo editing, vector design, layout or UX/UI design?

• Compatibility : Do you use Windows, macOS or Linux?

• Collaboration : Do you work in a team and need cloud-based tools?

Now let's look in detail at the best options available.

Vector Graphics Programs

Vector graphics software are fundamental tools for the creation of logos , illustrations and design Scalable without loss of quality.

Adobe Illustrator

Adobe Illustrator it is the reference standard for professional vector graphics. It is used for the creation of detailed illustrations, logos and graphics for the web and print. It offers a full range of instruments for color management, the creation of complex paths, and integration with other Adobe software. It features advanced features Like perspective drawing, the creation of patterns and support for SVG files.

• For : Advanced tools for vector drawing, perfect integration with Photoshop and InDesign.

• Against Steep learning curve, expensive subscription.

• Price : €24.39/month.

CorelDRAW

CorelDRAW It is a vector graphics software. highly appreciated for its intuitiveness and the features designed for the print and advertising sector. Compared to Illustrator, it offers a greater customization of the interface and advanced tools field of typography. It is particularly useful for those who work in the Sector of signage and large format printing.

• For Easy to use, specific tools for professional printing.

• Against : Less widespread than Illustrator, less modern interface.

• Price : 349€/year or 719€ for the perpetual license.

Inkscape

Inkscape is an open-source software for vector graphics, perfect for those looking for a free alternative to Illustrator. It supports the SVG format, offers advanced tools for freehand drawing and bitmap tracing. Although it does not have the same fluidity as Illustrator, it is an incredible resource for those working with vector graphics without investing in paid software.

• Pro: Free, ideal for those approaching vector design.

• Cons: Less intuitive interface, some functions less advanced compared to Illustrator.

• Price: Free.

Programs for photo editing and image manipulation

Adobe Photoshop

Photoshop it is the more powerful and versatile photo editing software Available. It provides advanced tools for image manipulation, color correction, and the creation of digital graphics. L Integration with Adobe Creative Cloud It allows you to work seamlessly with Illustrator and InDesign.

• For : Advanced editing, AI support, compatibility with numerous file formats.

• Against : Expensive and complex for beginners.

• Price : €24.39/month.

Affinity Photo

Affinity Photo is a valid alternative to Photoshop , designed to offer advanced photo editing tools without the need for subscriptions. It supports layers, masks, RAW editing and has a high operational fluidity .

• For : No subscription, clean interface, advanced editing.

• Against Limited compatibility with PSD files, less widespread than Photoshop.

• Price : €74.99 (single license).

GIMP

GIMP is the open-source photo editing software more complete. It is perfect for those looking for a free and flexible solution . It supports levels, masks and numerous file formats.

• For : Free, highly customizable.

• Against : Less intuitive interface, less powerful compared to commercial software.

• Price : Free.

Programs for advertising graphics

Advertising graphics are essential for the creation of captivating promotional materials , including banners, posters, flyers, and digital content. There are several software suitable for this purpose:

Adobe InDesign

Adobe InDesign it is a tool Professional for editorial design and creation of advertising materials . It is perfect for creating brochures, catalogs, and flyers thanks to its advanced control over typography and page management.

• For Perfect integration with Photoshop and Illustrator, advanced tools for page layout.

• Against Expensive subscription, not suitable for complex vector graphics.

• Price : €24.39/month.

Canva

Canva is a Online software that allows to create graphics for advertising. With an intuitive interface and a wide range of predefined templates. It is ideal for those who do not have advanced design skills.

• For Easy to use, extensive library of templates and free images.

• Against : Limited in advanced features compared to professional software.

• Price : Free with premium options starting from €11.99/month.

CorelDRAW

In addition to vector graphics, CorelDRAW offers Tools for the creation of advertising materials. With a particular focus on printing.

• For Professional tools for typography and printing.

• Against : Less used compared to Adobe.

• Price : €349/year or €719 for the perpetual license.

Emerging Graphic Software

Gravit Designer

Gravit Designer is a Cloud-based vector graphics software . It allows you to create illustrations, logos, and graphic interfaces with great simplicity.

• For : Free, compatible with every operating system.

• Against : Some advanced features available only in the Pro version.

• Price : Free or $49/year for the Pro version.

Comparative table

Choose the correct graphic tool a depends on your own needs. If you are an illustrator, opt for Illustrator You did not provide a text to translate. Please provide the text you want to be translated from Italian to English. Inkscape If you work with photo editing, Photoshop and Affinity Photo they are the best solutions. Finally, if you need tools for social graphics, Canva and Crello They allow you to create content quickly.

Discover the best solutions for digital graphics by visiting our pages dedicated to software. adobe and Corel Draw .