Best Graphic Design Software

Last updated: September 2025

Compare different graphic design software, explore our in-depth reviews & informative articles, and choose the best solution for you.

Most Recommended
Adobe Photoshop
Adobe Photoshop
Flawless graphics: Pixel-perfect precision
Starting from: $14.98/mo
  • Smart object integration for scalability
  • Impactful blending modes and layer styles
  • Vast plugin integrations to boost workflow
Adobe Photoshop
Starting from:
$14.98/mo
Flawless graphics: Pixel-perfect precision
AI image & design generation plus editing
Starting from: $0/mo
Free Plan
  • Built for easy team collaboration
  • Internal content scheduler and publisher
  • 1000+ professional templates
Canva
Starting from:
$0/mo
Free Plan
AI image & design generation plus editing
Wide range of design services
Designer ratings and reviews
Starting from: CustomRequest a Quote
  • Budget designs available
  • Robust search and filter feature
  • Fair pricing with refund option
Fiverr
Starting from:
CustomRequest a Quote
Wide range of design services
Web-based SVG editing software
Starting from: $0/mo
Free Plan
  • Limitless file download options
  • Unique pen tool for customization
  • Customizable templates for diverse projects
Vecteezy
Starting from:
$0/mo
Free Plan
Versatile vector-based software for design
Starting from: $59.99/mo
7-Day Free Trial
  • Unified design suite for publishing & printing
  • Seamless app integration
  • Limitless file export options
Adobe
Starting from:
$59.99/mo
7-Day Free Trial
Learn More
Advanced automation & customization tools
Starting from: $36/mo/editor
  • Extensive content libraries
  • Team collaboration and brand alignment
  • High volume of ad variations
Creatopy
Starting from:
$36/mo/editor
Learn More

Why You Can Trust the Expertise of Sonary

At Sonary, we are committed to providing accurate and trustworthy information to help you make informed decisions. Our research process is meticulous, transparent, and guided by a dedication to maintaining the highest standards of integrity.

Unlike many other review platforms, we conduct in-depth evaluations of the software and services we feature. Our expert team tests and actively uses the tools we review to understand their features, performance, and value comprehensively. Our assessments are based on real-world use, giving you insights beyond surface-level descriptions.

Our research methodology includes analyzing key consumer factors such as pricing, functionality, device usability, scalability, customer support quality, and unique industry-specific features.
This hands-on approach and dedication to transparency mean you can trust Sonary to deliver regular, up-to-date content and recommendations that are well-researched and genuinely helpful for your business needs.


How to Choose The Best Graphic Design Software

In the digital age, graphic design has become an essential communication mode for businesses. In fact, visual aesthetics and design elements have the power to bridge the gap between your audience and your business.

It is no secret that businesses harness the power of graphic design to influence purchase decisions and inform the audience at the same time. Even the design of the typography on a flyer can make all the difference for a business. From minimalist to exuberant graphic design, bands use different approaches for different target customers.

In this article, you can dive into the importance of graphic design, the essence of graphic design software, top features like image manipulation, user interface, and image editing, and factors to consider when choosing the best software for your needs:

Brand Logo
Adobe Photoshop
Starting from:
$14.98 /mo
Free plan / Free trial:
Not Available
Learn more about Adobe Photoshop review.
In the realm of design, Adobe Photoshop remains an essential tool for professionals, blending traditional design functionalities with cutting-edge AI enhancements. The introduction of AI-driven tools like the improved Font browser helps designers manage and explore over 25,000 Adobe fonts with ease, enriching the creative process and ensuring a seamless workflow across devices and platforms​. Adobe Photoshop, a leader in digital editing for over 30 years, offers powerful tools to support creatives across industries in produce detailed and complex designs effortlessly.
Features

General Features

v-pro
API
v-pro
Templates
v-pro
Image Database
v-pro
Collaboration Tools
v-pro
Content Import/Export
v-pro
Edits Vector & Raster Graphics
v-pro
Touch Interface Support
v-pro
Pro-Level Typography
v-pro
Print Management
v-pro
Publishing / Sharing
v-pro
Multi-Language
v-pro
Multiple Format Support
v-pro
Third Party Integrations

Advanced Features

v-pro
Animation
v-pro
Document Storage
v-pro
Search/Filter

Editing Features

v-pro
Photo Editing
v-pro
Video Editing
v-pro
Offline Editing
v-pro
Drag & Drop
Pros & Cons

Pros

v-pro
Can deeply customize almost every aspect of the design process
v-pro
Supports multiple file formats — essential for cross-platform design work.
v-pro
Tools for mobile and web design
v-pro
Adobe Suite integration for easy workflow

Cons

x-con
Requires a powerful computer as it runs many processes
x-con
Steep learning curve due to many features
x-con
No option for a perpetual license
Brand Logo
Canva
Starting from:
$0 /mo
Free plan / Free trial:
Available
Learn more about Canva review.
Canva is a user-friendly graphic design platform that empowers individuals to create a wide array of visual content, including graphics, presentations, headers, documents, invitations, posters, and resumes. This all-in-one graphic design tool features a video and graphic maker, photo editor, and logo creator, making it accessible for both beginners and professionals. With its intuitive interface and extensive template library, Canva simplifies the design process, enabling users to produce stunning visuals with ease. In this Canva review, I'll discuss, graphic design features, performance, Canva pricing, and more.
Features

General Features

v-pro
API
v-pro
Templates
v-pro
Image Database
v-pro
Collaboration Tools
v-pro
Content Import/Export
v-pro
Content Management
v-pro
Edits Vector & Raster Graphics
v-pro
Pro-Level Typography
v-pro
Print Management
v-pro
Publishing / Sharing
v-pro
Multi-Channel Marketing
v-pro
Multi-Language
v-pro
Multiple Format Support
v-pro
Social Promotion
v-pro
Third Party Integrations

Advanced Features

v-pro
Animation
v-pro
Document Storage
v-pro
Access Controls/Permissions
v-pro
Search/Filter

Editing Features

v-pro
Photo Editing
v-pro
Video Editing
v-pro
Rich Text Editor
v-pro
WYSIWYG Editor
v-pro
Drag & Drop
Pros & Cons

Pros

v-pro
AI tools for creating and editing designs
v-pro
1M+ free templates
v-pro
Easy to share option
v-pro
Automatic save

Cons

x-con
Best features aren't available for free
x-con
No phone, live chat, email or community support
x-con
Its online version has more templates and design elements
Brand Logo
Adobe
Starting from:
$59.99 /mo
Free plan / Free trial:
Available
Learn more about Adobe review.
Adobe's graphic design software is a versatile, integrated suite tailored for both print and digital publishing. It offers a comprehensive range of graphic design features, from simple functionalities to advanced tools, catering to both beginners and professional designers. Applications like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator provide robust capabilities for creating and editing graphics, ensuring high-quality outputs for any project. With seamless integration across its suite, Adobe streamlines the design process, enhancing efficiency and creativity. This Adobe graphic design tool is a cornerstone in the industry, empowering designers to bring their visions to life with precision and flexibility. I'll go over Adobe pricing, features, and performance in this Adobe review.
Features

General Features

v-pro
API
v-pro
Templates
v-pro
Image Database
v-pro
Collaboration Tools
v-pro
Content Import/Export
v-pro
Content Management
v-pro
Edits Vector & Raster Graphics
v-pro
Touch Interface Support
v-pro
Pro-Level Typography
v-pro
Print Management
v-pro
Publishing / Sharing
v-pro
Multi-Channel Marketing
v-pro
Multi-Language
v-pro
Multiple Format Support
v-pro
Third Party Integrations

Advanced Features

v-pro
Animation
v-pro
Document Storage
v-pro
Access Controls/Permissions
v-pro
Search/Filter

Editing Features

v-pro
Photo Editing
v-pro
Video Editing
v-pro
Offline Editing
v-pro
Rich Text Editor
v-pro
WYSIWYG Editor
v-pro
Drag & Drop
Pros & Cons

Pros

v-pro
Multiple ways to export
v-pro
Seamless integrations and compatibility with CC suite of apps
v-pro
Robust help and support
v-pro
Image-tracing tools

Cons

x-con
There aren't many advanced graphic design tutorials
x-con
Users require training to use the software
x-con
Software tends to take up disk space
Brand Logo
Fiverr
Starting from:
Custom Request a Quote
Free plan / Free trial:
Not Available
Learn more about Fiverr review.
Fiverr is a dynamic online marketplace where creativity meets convenience, offering a wide array of digital services like graphic design, logo creation, website design, and more. Whether you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, or creative professional, Fiverr connects you with talented freelancers who specialize in using graphic design software and tools to bring your vision to life. With its user-friendly platform, Fiverr simplifies the process of hiring skilled freelancers for projects of all sizes. From eye-catching logos to detailed marketing materials, Fiverr’s graphic design offerings make it a go-to solution for anyone seeking high-quality, affordable design services. In this Fiverr review, I'll discuss pricing, services, features, performance and more.
Features

General Features

v-pro
API
v-pro
Multi-Language
v-pro
Multiple Format Support
v-pro
Third Party Integrations
v-pro
Engagement Analytics

Advanced Features

v-pro
Animation
v-pro
Document Storage
v-pro
Access Controls/Permissions
v-pro
Freelancer Screening & Profiles
v-pro
Search/Filter

Editing Features

v-pro
Photo Editing
v-pro
Video Editing
Pros & Cons

Pros

v-pro
Intuitive interface makes it easy to find sellers
v-pro
Lots of options for filtering your search
v-pro
A wide array of services is available with sellers of different skill levels
v-pro
Fast average turnaround time

Cons

x-con
Many fake reviews
x-con
Customer support service isn’t always reliable
Brand Logo
Vecteezy
Starting from:
$0 /mo
Free plan / Free trial:
Available
Learn more about Vecteezy review.
Vecteezy is a vector editing software that makes it possible for users to download, edit, customize or create vector designs from scratch. This versatile graphic design tool allows me to modify colors, fonts, and sizes with ease, ensuring my projects are tailored perfectly to my needs. Whether working on a professional project or a personal creative endeavor, Vecteezy’s graphic design features streamline the process from start to finish. For anyone looking to enhance their workflow, this Vecteezy review highlights its incredible potential. In this Vecteezy review, I'll look at features, performance, customer support and Vecteezy pricing.
Features

General Features

v-pro
Templates
v-pro
Image Database
v-pro
Content Import/Export
v-pro
Content Management
v-pro
Edits Vector & Raster Graphics
v-pro
Print Management
v-pro
Publishing / Sharing
v-pro
Multi-Channel Marketing
v-pro
Multi-Language
v-pro
Multiple Format Support
v-pro
Social Promotion

Advanced Features

v-pro
Animation
v-pro
Access Controls/Permissions
v-pro
Search/Filter

Editing Features

v-pro
Photo Editing
v-pro
Video Editing
v-pro
WYSIWYG Editor
v-pro
Drag & Drop
Pros & Cons

Pros

v-pro
Organized site with easy-to-use features
v-pro
Several choices of images in different categories
v-pro
Unlimited download with no wait time
v-pro
Versatile SVG customization software

Cons

x-con
Only works on selected browsers
x-con
Quite elementary as a graphic design tool
x-con
Accuracy may be a bit poor compared to professional tools

What Makes Up Graphic Design Software

Graphic design software refers to a tool that designers can use to create beautiful visual content. Well-designed software editing tools offer abilities such as cross-platform integration, creating of vector graphics through vector design and vector illustration, creation of SVG files, and of course illustration and photo editing.

Of course, professional graphic designers are familiar with changing dynamics and evolution of premier graphic design applications. But whether you offer freelance graphic designing services on UpWork, work in an agency, or are part of an in-house team,  you should be aware of the criteria and features in graphic design software.

Importance of Graphic Design Tools

For starters, graphic design serves as the first impression of an offered product or service. In fact, graphic design is the key for businesses to drive positive change and leave a lasting impression. Visitors now prefer to interact with brands with high-end visual graphics.

In 2021, the graphic designers market was worth more than $45 billion. The first encounter of graphic design can be a sales page, website, flyer, product packaging, social media post, or even a business card. It is the reason more businesses want to capitalize on impeccable design to improve the buyer’s journey.

At its core, the flawless and modern graphic design represents professionalism. When your customers first see your products and services, the quality of graphic design plays a large role in whether they are interested or not. In time, graphic design helps businesses build a unique and robust brand identity.

Are Graphic Design and Web Design the Same?

Graphic design and web design do overlap and have similarities. Both highlight the functionality and format of content, using imaging and typography to communicate a message to the viewer. However, web design only uses web pages and not print media.

Since web designers are focused on websites, they need to have a working knowledge of coding languages such as HTML and CSS, as well as factors that can impact page load speed.  Graphic designers, on the other hand, work on both print and digital projects and have no need for programming.

Learn to Choose the Best Graphic Design Software

Whether you’re a professional or amateur graphic designer, you should go through various considerations to choose the most compatible graphic design software. Of course, the integrated features vary from one graphic design software to another. So, it makes all the more difference to figure out “your” needs.

No Watermarks

If you’re a beginner, you might be attracted to open source free graphic design software, and that’s fair. However, most free versions of graphic design solutions come with pre-printed watermarks. You need to avoid programs that pre-print a watermark on each image. Even if the watermark is minimal, it can still impact your graphic design. So, opt for the graphic design software that allows you to add a custom watermark.

Smooth Editing

One of your main considerations in selecting a photo editing software should revolve around editing to create impressive graphic designs. If your editorial style requires making constant changes to existing images, you will need graphic design software that supports smooth real-time editing features.

Further, you’ll want to look for software with a platform to create mockups, adjust gradients, and resize images. It is very important to be able to create prototypes of your work so you can troubleshoot before publishing.

Innovative Features

Before you buy a complete version, get a free trial of the graphic design software to get a feel of the innovative features. Check whether or not the design and layout options are easy to find and compliment your requirements. Naturally, you don’t want to create graphic designs on software that takes you half an hour to find a specific tool. This is a great way to determine if you want to invest in the pro version.

Tools and Templates

If you’re a beginner or semi-professional, you should opt for graphic design software that comes with a wide range of tools, tutorials,  and templates. Consequently, you will be able to use integrated tools, new features, and templates to streamline and manage projects easily.

Look for Precision

Graphic designing is the art of precision and your finished images should have attention to detail. And the only way you can achieve a high level of precision is through complete control over editing. For instance, compare whether or not the added changes to a picture are as clear as the first image.

Prioritize Compatibility

In the realm of graphic design tools, there is something for everyone. If you’re looking for graphic design software for professional designers, focus on integrated tools that can maximize their creative control. On the other hand, if your business wants an affordable and straightforward photo editor application, there are various options available in the market.

It’s also good to keep in mind what kind of system and devices you’ll be using the software on. Does your team use all major platforms, including Microsoft Windows, Apple iOS, Linux, and Android? Does everyone use a desktop or laptop, or do some people use mobile devices like an iPad?

In any case, make sure to select graphic design software based on your tasks. In fact, there is more subjectivity around the “best” graphic design programs than you think. As of now, Adobe Creative Cloud is arguably the most comprehensive graphic design software. For instance, Adobe InDesign is famous for page layouts, whereas Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop complement each other. Still, the “best” graphic design program is the one that works for “you”.

Focus on the Key Features

  • Color synchronization
  • Collaborative editing
  • Snap and pixel feature
  • Personalized design options
  • Extensive import and export options
  • Clear layout and organization features
  • Auto creations such as collages, effects, and slideshows
  • Scalability or replacing objects and backgrounds
  • Integrated sharing options
  • Advanced visual manipulation
  • Drawing tools
  • Number of fonts
  • Drag and drop ability
  • File formats it can use
  • Plugins

Explore Beginner and Professional Graphic Design Applications

Like any new skill, there can be a steep learning curve in the beginning, so you should review both beginner and professional graphic design programs. Your objective should be to look for the most compatible and suitable application that offers an intuitive experience, smooth editing, and heightened user experience. Think of this combination to choose the “perfect” graphic design software.

Final Thoughts

Often, words fail to communicate the core brand message efficiently. It takes a combination of visual graphics to simplify complicated product or service information through infographics, charts, or illustrations. If you’re a professional and experienced graphic designer, you can create graphic designs on your own.

But the end effect may still not be as good as a professional graphic designing agency. If you’re a beginner or your business has a tight annual budget, it would make more sense to hire an affordable and professional graphic designer from freelance platforms like Fiverr and Upwork.

Simultaneously, you can also try Canva to create free graphic designs. Your designs should be able to capture the essence of your business and communicate the core message. It should be good enough to establish recognition and garner more interest from customers.