Technology

9 Superior Graphic Design Software for 2024

9-superior-graphic-design-software-for-2023

Are you on the lookout for the best graphic design software to elevate your creative projects in 2023? Look no further, as we bring you a list of 9 superior graphic design software options that are set to revolutionize the industry. With cutting-edge features and user-friendly interfaces, these software programs will empower you to unleash your imagination and bring your artistic visions to life. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a budding designer, these tools will cater to your needs and help you elevate your designs to a whole new level. Stay ahead of the game and explore the possibilities with these exceptional graphic design software options.

Overall Score: 8/10

CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 2021 is a complete suite of professional graphics applications designed for vector illustration, layout, photo editing, and more. It offers a vast toolbox for creating complex works of art, adding creative effects, and laying out brochures and multi-page documents. The software includes powerful layer-based photo editing tools for color adjustment, fixing imperfections, improving image quality with AI, and creating HDR photos from RAW images. With CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 2021, users can deliver professional output for print or web with precision control, accurate color consistency, and advanced printing options. The software also features extensive file support for popular graphics, publishing, and image formats. *Note: This is an old version of the software.

Key Features

  • Academic Eligibility for non-commercial use
  • Complete suite of professional graphics applications for various purposes
  • Design complex works of art and lay out brochures
  • Powerful layer-based photo editing tools
  • Accurate color consistency and advanced printing options
  • Extensive file support for popular graphics formats

Specifications

  • Dimension: 5.51Lx0.28Wx7.40H

Pros

  • Full version with all the bells & whistles
  • Easy to use for sublimation projects
  • Very easy to learn and creative to design with
  • Good value at a discounted Education Edition price
  • Powerful graphics program with a long history of usability

Cons

  • Transition to subscription-based model may deter some users
  • Changes in interface may require familiarization for long-time users
  • May experience occasional program lock-ups

CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 2021 offers a comprehensive set of tools for professionals in graphic design. With its versatile features, powerful editing capabilities, and extensive file support, the software provides users with the ability to create complex artworks, design brochures, and edit photos with ease. While the transition to a subscription-based model and changes in interface may be drawbacks, the program’s value, ease of use, and creative potential outweigh any negatives. Whether you’re a student, professional, or hobbyist, CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 2021 is a reliable choice for all your graphic design needs.

Overall Score: 6/10

CorelDRAW Standard 2021 is a versatile graphic design software that allows users to create eye-catching projects for print or web. With its user-friendly applications for graphics, layout, illustration, tracing, photo editing, web images, and art, users can produce original flyers, brochures, multi-page documents, and web graphics. The software also includes powerful layer-based photo editing features to retouch and enhance photos. CorelDRAW Standard 2021 comes with an easy-to-use interface, intuitive tools, and tutorials, making it suitable for users of all skill levels.

Key Features

  • Versatile toolkit for graphics, layout, illustration, tracing, and photo editing
  • Vector illustration and page layout tools
  • Powerful layer-based photo editing features
  • Easy-to-use interface and intuitive tools
  • 1,000 clipart and digital images, 100 royalty-free high-resolution photos, 175 fonts, 20 photo frames, 900 fills, and 60 professionally designed templates

Specifications

    Pros

    • Wide range of tools for graphic design
    • Easy-to-use interface and tutorials
    • Includes various clipart, images, fonts, frames, and templates

    Cons

    • Missing some features compared to previous versions
    • Poor customer service
    • Limited features for the price

    CorelDRAW Standard 2021 is a decent graphic design software, offering a versatile toolkit and a range of tools for users to create eye-catching projects. The software is suitable for both hobbyists and home business owners. However, it is worth noting that some features may be missing compared to previous versions, and the customer service has received negative feedback. Despite these drawbacks, the software provides an easy-to-use interface, intuitive tools, and a variety of clipart, images, fonts, frames, and templates to keep designs fresh. Overall, CorelDRAW Standard 2021 is a solid choice for those looking to create professional-looking graphics and illustrations.

    Overall Score: 7/10

    Corel PaintShop Pro 2023 is a subscription-free photo editing and graphic design software suitable for all skill levels. With a wide range of features, you can edit and correct photography, enhance images with AI, and create stunning graphic design projects. The software offers full-featured editing tools to correct and adjust photos, remove objects and flaws, change backgrounds, and edit RAW images. It also includes powerful graphic design features like layers, masks, text, brushes, drawing tools, and hundreds of creative filters and effects. Corel PaintShop Pro 2023 is customizable and supports the import/export of various file formats. It is compatible with 64-bit third-party plug-ins and graphics tablets, making it a versatile tool for photographers and designers.

    Key Features

    • Subscription-free photo editing and design software for all skill levels
    • Full-featured editing tools with AI-powered features and RAW image editing
    • Graphic design features including layers, masks, text, and creative filters
    • Multiple customizable workspaces to enhance editing efficiency
    • Import/export support for various file formats and compatible with third-party plug-ins and graphics tablets

    Specifications

    • Dimension: 5.25Lx1.25Wx7.50H

    Pros

    • Wide range of photo editing and graphic design features
    • No subscription fees, one-time purchase
    • Good batch processing capabilities for bulk images
    • Support for 64-bit third-party plug-ins and graphics tablets

    Cons

    • Steep learning curve for beginners
    • Vague instructions and lack of user-friendliness
    • Not as good as Photoshop Elements for some users

    Corel PaintShop Pro 2023 offers a powerful suite of photo editing and graphic design tools suitable for all skill levels. While it may have a steeper learning curve, it provides advanced features such as AI-powered editing, RAW image support, and graphic design capabilities. The absence of a subscription model is a significant advantage, as users can make a one-time purchase and own the software indefinitely. However, beginners may find it challenging to navigate initially, and the lack of user-friendly instructions can be frustrating. Overall, for photographers and designers looking for a robust alternative to subscription-based software, Corel PaintShop Pro 2023 is a solid choice.

    Overall Score: 7/10

    Corel PaintShop Pro 2022 is a subscription-free photo editing and design software that offers a range of powerful features for all skill levels. It provides full-featured editing tools for correcting, adjusting, and restoring photos, as well as the ability to remove objects and flaws, change backgrounds, manage RAW image files, and create HDR photos. With its graphic design features like layers and masks, intuitive text, brushes, drawing and painting tools, and hundreds of creative filters, effects, and built-in templates, users can also unleash their creativity. The software offers multiple customizable workspaces for more efficient editing. It supports various file formats, including Adobe PSD, and offers support for third-party plugins and graphics tablets. Corel PaintShop Pro 2022 is a versatile and user-friendly software for all your photo editing and graphic design needs.

    Key Features

    • Subscription-free photo editing and design software for all skill levels
    • Full-featured editing tools for correcting, adjusting, and restoring photos
    • Graphic design features like layers, masks, text, and drawing tools
    • Support for multiple customizable workspaces
    • Import/export various file formats, including Adobe PSD

    Specifications

      Pros

      • Wide range of editing and design features
      • No subscription required
      • Support for third-party plugins and graphics tablets
      • User-friendly interface and customizable workspaces

      Cons

      • Frequent advertising and upgrade pop-ups
      • Some features may require additional purchases
      • Tech support can be slow and ineffective

      Corel PaintShop Pro 2022 is a powerful photo editing and graphic design software that offers a subscription-free alternative to Adobe Photoshop. It provides a comprehensive set of tools and features for correcting, enhancing, and creating stunning photos and graphics. The software’s AI-powered capabilities, customizable workspaces, and support for various file formats make it a versatile choice for both beginners and professionals. However, users should be aware of the frequent advertising and upgrade pop-ups that can be intrusive. Despite this drawback, Corel PaintShop Pro 2022 is an excellent value-for-money option for anyone seeking a reliable and feature-rich photo editing software.

      Overall Score: 7/10

      Geometric Tools for Computer Graphics is a comprehensive guide that covers vector geometry, intersection, collision, and more. With a coordinate-free approach, this book is perfect for those looking to understand the core of 3D graphics. It provides relevant theory, methods, and working code fragments, making it a must-have for computer graphics professionals. While errors are present in the first edition, the book is still valuable and armed with the provided errata, it delivers what it promises. The content offers a solid grounding in vectors and matrices, along with a broad range of 2D and 3D geometric algorithms. Despite some challenges, this book is a valuable resource for those interested in implementing geometric algorithms for computer graphics.

      Key Features

      • Coordinate-free approach to 3D graphics
      • Covers vector geometry, intersection, collision, and more
      • Relevant theory, methods, and working code fragments
      • Comprehensive guide with diverse geometric algorithms

      Specifications

      • Dimension: 7.56Lx2.10Wx9.52H

      Pros

      • Excellent mathematical approach to vector geometry
      • Wide range of 2D and 3D geometric algorithms covered
      • Comprehensive guide with working code fragments
      • Provides relevant theory and methods

      Cons

      • Errors present in the first edition
      • Some explanations and notation can be challenging
      • Code samples are limited and algorithms not always practical

      Geometric Tools for Computer Graphics is a valuable resource for computer graphics professionals, providing a comprehensive guide to geometric algorithms. Despite errors in the first edition and some challenging aspects, the book offers relevant theory, methods, and working code fragments. The coordinate-free approach and coverage of various geometric algorithms make it a must-have for those interested in implementing 3D graphics. While it may not be the most beginner-friendly book, it offers a solid grounding in vectors and matrices, along with practical insights into geometry in computer graphics. Overall, this book is a valuable asset for those looking to deepen their understanding and implementation of geometric algorithms for computer graphics.

      Overall Score: 7.5/10

      Corel PaintShop Pro 2022 Ultimate is a subscription-free photo editing and graphic design software. It offers a full range of editing tools to correct, adjust, and enhance photos, with features like object removal, background change, RAW image management, HDR creation, and batch processing. It also provides graphic design capabilities including layers, masks, text, drawing tools, filters, and templates. The software offers multiple customizable workspaces and supports various file formats. As an Amazon Exclusive, it includes the ParticleShop 5-brush starter pack plugin for added creative enhancement. Despite mixed reviews, this software is praised for its creative potential and extensive features.

      Key Features

      • Subscription-free photo editing and design software
      • Powerful photo correction, restoration, and manipulation tools
      • Graphic design features with layers, masks, and drawing tools
      • Customizable workspaces and support for various file formats
      • Includes the Particle Shop 5-brush starter pack plugin

      Specifications

        Pros

        • Comprehensive photo editing and design capabilities
        • Multiple customizable workspaces for efficient editing
        • Includes additional creative plugins and software
        • Supports various file formats and third-party plugins

        Cons

        • Mixed reviews and experiences from users
        • Slow loading and performance on certain features
        • Limited improvements compared to older versions
        • Lack of compatibility with older operating systems

        Corel PaintShop Pro 2022 Ultimate offers a versatile set of photo editing and graphic design tools suitable for both beginners and advanced users. While the software has its limitations and performance issues, it provides a range of features for enhancing and manipulating images. The inclusion of the ParticleShop 5-brush starter pack plugin adds an extra level of creativity. However, the mixed reviews indicate that user experience may vary, and some features may not meet expectations. Overall, Corel PaintShop Pro 2022 Ultimate is a valuable option for those seeking powerful editing capabilities and the freedom of a non-subscription software.

        Overall Score: 7.5/10

        Adobe Illustrator is an industry-standard vector graphic design software that allows users to create logos, icons, sketches, typography, and complex illustrations for various mediums including print, web, interactive, video, and mobile. With its powerful tools and controls for drawing, typography, color, and creative effects, Illustrator offers precise and versatile creative options for any graphic design project. However, there have been some negative reviews regarding difficulties with subscriptions and compatibility issues with certain devices. Overall, Adobe Illustrator is a highly capable design software that offers a wide range of features and capabilities.

        Key Features

        • Create logos, icons, sketches, typography, and complex illustrations
        • Fast and efficient workflow from idea to finished artwork
        • Industry-standard tools for drawing, color, creative effects, and typography
        • Versatile app for designing graphics for any project
        • Precise and powerful creative tools and controls

        Specifications

        • N/A

        Pros

        • Wide range of design capabilities
        • Versatile and powerful creative tools
        • Industry-standard software

        Cons

        • Difficulties with subscriptions
        • Compatibility issues with certain devices

        Despite some drawbacks with subscriptions and compatibility, Adobe Illustrator remains a highly capable vector graphic design software. It offers a comprehensive set of tools and features that allow designers to create stunning and intricate illustrations, logos, and typography for various mediums. While there have been some negative reviews, it’s important to note that Adobe Illustrator is widely recognized as an industry standard in graphic design. As with any software, it’s advisable to ensure compatibility with your device and carefully manage subscriptions to avoid any potential issues. Overall, if you’re looking for a professional design software with a wide range of capabilities, Adobe Illustrator is definitely worth considering.

        Overall Score: 8/10

        The CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 2021 is a comprehensive graphic design software specifically designed for professionals. This education edition is eligible for accredited schools, students, and non-profit organizations, offering a wide range of graphic applications for vector illustration, layout, photo editing, and more. With an expansive toolbox, users can design complex artworks, add creative effects, and create brochures and multi-page documents. The software features powerful layer-based photo editing tools, allowing users to adjust color, fix imperfections, enhance image quality with AI, and create HDR photos from RAW images. It also offers extensive file support for popular graphics and publishing formats. With precise control, accurate color consistency, and advanced printing options, users can deliver professional output for print or web. Overall, the CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 2021 is a versatile and powerful tool for graphic design professionals.

        Key Features

        • Academic Eligibility: accredited schools, faculties, full or part-time students, non-profit charitable and religious organizations; not for commercial use
        • Complete suite of professional graphics applications
        • Design complex artworks and add creative effects
        • Layout brochures and multi-page documents
        • Powerful layer-based photo editing tools
        • Extensive file support for popular graphics formats

        Specifications

          Pros

          • Comprehensive and versatile graphic design software
          • Powerful photo editing tools
          • Accurate color consistency and advanced printing options
          • Extensive file support for popular formats

          Cons

          • Learning curve for new users
          • Previous version had better subscription model

          The CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 2021 is a top choice for graphic design professionals. With its comprehensive set of tools and powerful features, users can create complex artworks, edit photos, and deliver professional output. The software offers extensive file support and precise control over color consistency, making it ideal for print or web projects. While there may be a learning curve for new users, the software provides great value for its price. Overall, the CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 2021 is a reliable and efficient tool for graphic design professionals who require precise control and advanced editing capabilities.

          Overall Score: 8/10

          Adobe Illustrator is the industry-standard vector graphic design software that allows you to unleash your creativity. With this versatile app, you can create logos, icons, sketches, typography, and complex illustrations for print, web, interactive, video, and mobile. It offers powerful creative tools and controls for drawing, color, creative effects, and typography, ensuring you have everything you need to create compelling graphics for any media. Whether you need to create a new logo or design intricate illustrations, Adobe Illustrator provides a seamless experience from the first idea to the finished artwork. Please note that existing subscribers must complete the current membership term before linking a new subscription term.

          Key Features

          • Existing subscribers must first complete current membership term before linking new subscription term
          • Create logos, icons, sketches, typography and complex illustrations for various media
          • Fastest Illustrator ever helps you go from idea to finished artwork quickly
          • Powerful creative tools and controls for drawing, color, effects, and typography
          • Versatile app for designing graphics like logos, icons, charts, etc.

          Specifications

            Pros

            • Professional vector graphic design application with industry-standard tools
            • Create compelling graphics for practically any media

            Cons

            • Difficult to cancel subscription on a mobile device

            Adobe Illustrator is a go-to software for professional graphic designers. It offers a wide range of features and powerful tools to create stunning vector graphics. The ability to work on various media and the seamless workflow make it a favorite among designers. However, the mobile interface for canceling the subscription could use some improvement. Overall, Adobe Illustrator is a reliable and efficient tool for anyone looking to create eye-catching graphics.

            Buyer's Guide: Graphic Design Software

            Are you ready to dive into the world of graphic design? Whether you're a professional designer or an aspiring creative, finding the right graphic design software is essential for bringing your ideas to life. With numerous options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect fit for your needs. That's where this buyer's guide comes in handy! We'll provide you with a comprehensive list of factors to consider when selecting graphic design software.

            Key Considerations

            When comparing graphic design software, keep these factors in mind to ensure you make an informed decision:

            1. Design Features
              • Check if the software offers a wide range of design tools for drawing, painting, typography, photo editing, and more.
              • Evaluate the software's ability to handle vector graphics or raster images, depending on your requirements.
              • Look for features like layers, filters, effects, and templates that suit your design style.
            2. User Interface (UI)
              • Consider the software's UI and how intuitive it is for you to navigate. A cluttered or confusing interface can slow down your workflow.
              • Look for customizable UI options or shortcuts that can improve efficiency and allow you to personalize your workspace.
            3. Compatibility
              • Ensure that the software is compatible with your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
              • Check if it supports file formats commonly used in graphic design, such as .PSD, .AI, .EPS, or .SVG.
            4. Learning Curve
              • Evaluate the learning curve associated with the software. Some programs may be more beginner-friendly, while others require advanced skills.
              • Look for resources such as tutorials, guidelines, or a vibrant user community to assist you in mastering the software.
            5. Price
              • Determine your budget and explore different pricing models, including one-time purchase, subscription-based, or free software with limited features.
              • Consider the long-term cost if the software requires regular upgrades or additional plugins for specific tasks.
            6. Performance and Stability
              • Research user reviews to gain insights on the software's performance and stability.
              • Ensure that the software can handle your projects efficiently without crashing or causing unexpected delays.
            7. Customer Support
              • Check the availability and quality of customer support options offered by the software provider. Look for options such as email, phone, live chat, or a knowledge base.
            8. Collaboration Features
              • If collaboration is essential for your projects, check if the software allows multiple users to work together simultaneously, share files, or provide feedback.
            9. Security
              • Evaluate the software's security measures, especially if you handle confidential client data or work on sensitive projects.
            10. Updates and Future Development
              • Consider the software's track record for updates and improvements. Regular updates can bring new features and bug fixes to enhance your experience.

            Frequently Asked Questions about 9 Superior Graphic Design Software for 2023

            Can graphic design software be used for both print and digital projects?

            Yes, many graphic design programs offer versatile tools suitable for print, web, and other digital mediums. It’s essential to choose software that provides the features you need for your specific projects.

            Do I need to have formal design training to use graphic design software?

            No, while design training can be beneficial, most graphic design software is designed to be user-friendly for beginners. With practice and exploration, anyone can learn to use these tools effectively.

            Can I try graphic design software before purchasing it?

            Many software providers offer free trials for a limited period. Take advantage of these trials to test the software’s features, interface, and compatibility with your workflow before committing.

            Are there any free graphic design software options available?

            Yes, several free graphic design software options exist, providing basic design capabilities. However, note that they may offer limited features compared to premium versions.

            Can I use graphic design software on a tablet or mobile device?

            Some software is compatible with tablets or has dedicated mobile applications, allowing you to work on-the-go. Check the software’s specifications to verify its compatibility with your device.