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Top 10 FREE Graphic Design Tools for 2024
A comprehensive review of the best design software from Adobe Express to Vectr
MELOGRAPHICS
13 Jul
In today’s hyper-visual digital world, the power of graphic design cannot be overstated. From budding entrepreneurs to seasoned designers, the quest for the best graphic design software is ever-persistent. This search is not just about finding tools that unleash creativity but also about striking a balance between functionality, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness. With 2024 on the horizon, we delve into an array of free graphic design software options that offer rich features without the hefty price tag, ensuring that creativity remains accessible to everyone regardless of their budget.
This article reviews the top 10 free graphic design software choices for 2024, showcasing a variety of solutions that cater to both novice users and polished professionals. From Adobe Express and Canva, known for their user-friendly interfaces and extensive template libraries, to GIMP and Inkscape, celebrated for their deep customization and powerful capabilities. |
We'll also explore newer contenders like Figma and Krita, which are making waves with their innovative features. Each software’s key features, ease of use, and device compatibility will be compared, providing a comprehensive guide to help you choose the right tool to elevate your graphic design projects.
Top 10 Free Graphic Design Tools
Adobe Express features
Adobe Express is a versatile online photo editor and design tool that empowers users to create visually captivating graphics, videos, and animated designs for various platforms and devices. It offers a comprehensive suite of features to streamline the creative process:
Extensive template library: Adobe Express provides thousands of professionally designed templates for social media graphics, videos, presentations, flyers, and more, enabling users to kickstart their projects with ease. [1]
AI-powered tools: Leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), Adobe Express offers advanced features like Text to Image, Text Effects, and Generative Fill, allowing users to generate extraordinary images, apply stylish text effects, and manipulate objects within images using text prompts. [2]
Intuitive editing tools: Users can access a range of editing tools to enhance their designs, including cropping, resizing, adjusting brightness and contrast, adding filters and overlays, and incorporating text overlays. [3]
Animation capabilities: Adobe Express incorporates an animation design tool that can transform static images into dynamic, animated designs with a library of animation effects. [3]
Collaboration features: Adobe Express facilitates real-time collaboration, enabling users to invite team members, post comments, tag collaborators, and resolve comments within a centralized platform. [3]
Brand asset management: Users can create brand kits, upload logos, fonts, and color palettes, and easily apply these brand assets to their designs with a single click, ensuring consistent branding across all creations. [4]
Adobe Express pricing
Adobe Express offers two pricing plans to cater to different user needs:
Free plan: This plan includes core features like cropping, resizing, adjusting brightness and contrast, and is available at no cost. [3]
Premium plan: Priced at $9.99 per month or $99 per year with a 12-month commitment, the Premium plan provides access to advanced features, including premium templates, Adobe Stock assets, and additional AI-powered tools. [3]
Adobe Express pros and cons
Pros
User-friendly interface designed for easy creation and editing, even for novices in design. [3]
A diverse range of features, from templates to AI-powered tools, catering to varied design needs. [3]
Cost-effective options with a free plan and affordable paid subscriptions ensure accessibility for all. [3]
Ideal for editing images and videos, creating web graphics, flyers, book covers, custom banners, logos, social media posts, and advertisements. [3]
Cons
The free version has limited features. [3]
Certain top features, like downloading premium fonts and unlimited Adobe Stock access, require a paid plan for full utilization. [3]
The interface may not be intuitive initially for users accustomed to Creative Cloud desktop apps. [3]
Unexpected menus may appear after specific actions, which can be confusing for some users. [3]
Adobe Express stands out as a comprehensive and user-friendly graphic design solution, offering a range of features and pricing options to cater to diverse user needs, from novice creators to professional designers.
Canva features
Canva is an easy-to-use graphic design platform that empowers users to create visually captivating graphics, presentations, headers, documents, invitations, posters, resumes, and various visual content. [5] It offers a comprehensive suite of features, including:
Versatile design tools: Canva provides a video & graphic maker, photo editor, and logo creator, all integrated into a single app. [5]
Extensive template library: Users can access a vast collection of over 2.1 million professionally designed templates for social media graphics, videos, presentations, flyers, and more. [5] [6]
Intuitive drag-and-drop interface: Canva's user-friendly interface allows for seamless drag-and-drop editing, making it accessible even for non-designers. [5]
Rich media assets: Users can access a library of over 3 million stock photos, graphics, fonts, and videos to enhance their designs. [6] [5]
AI-powered tools: Canva incorporates AI-powered features for text-to-image generation, text effects, and object manipulation within images using text prompts. [6]
Collaboration features: Canva facilitates real-time collaboration, enabling users to invite team members, post comments, and resolve comments within a centralized platform. [3]
Brand asset management: Users can create brand kits, upload logos, fonts, and color palettes, and easily apply these brand assets to their designs. [4]
Canva pricing
Canva offers a variety of pricing options to cater to different user needs: [5]
Free plan: This plan includes core features like cropping, resizing, adjusting brightness and contrast, and is available at no cost. [3]
Pro plan: Priced at $12.99 per month or $119.99 per year, the Pro plan provides access to advanced features, including millions of premium templates, stock assets, and additional AI-powered tools. [7]
Enterprise plan: Designed for teams and organizations, the Enterprise plan is priced at $100 per person per year (minimum 3 people), with the price per user decreasing incrementally for larger teams. It includes all Pro features, real-time collaboration tools, team management, and user permission management. [6] [7]
Additionally, Canva offers free premium features to eligible K-12 educational organizations and non-profits. [6]
Canva pros and cons
Pros
User-friendly interface designed for easy creation and editing, even for novices in design. [3] [5]
Extensive library of templates, stock assets, and design elements catering to various design needs. [5] [6]
Cost-effective options with a free plan and affordable paid subscriptions. [3] [7]
Ideal for creating social media graphics, videos, presentations, and other visual content. [5] [7]
Collaboration features and brand asset management tools for teams and organizations. [3] [4] [7]
Cons
The free version has limited features and access to premium assets. [3] [7]
Certain advanced features and unlimited access to premium assets require a paid subscription. [3] [7]
The interface may initially seem unintuitive for users accustomed to desktop design software. [3]
Unexpected menus or prompts may appear after specific actions, which can be confusing for some users. [3]
Limited capabilities for complex or long-format design projects like magazines or annual reports. [8]
Canva stands out as a comprehensive and user-friendly graphic design solution, offering a range of features and pricing options to cater to diverse user needs, from novice creators to professional designers and teams.
GIMP features
GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) is a free and open-source graphics software that has been actively developed and updated by volunteers since its inception in 1996. [9] It offers a comprehensive suite of features for image manipulation and editing:
Layers and Masking: GIMP supports layers and layer masks, enabling users to work on different elements of an image separately and combine them seamlessly. [10]
Painting and Drawing Tools: It provides a wide range of painting and drawing tools, including brushes, pencils, airbrushes, and more, allowing users to create and edit graphics from scratch. [10]
Selection Tools: GIMP offers various selection tools, such as the rectangular, elliptical, and free selection tools, as well as advanced selection methods like foreground extraction and intelligent scissors. [10]
Filters and Effects: It comes with a vast collection of filters and effects, including blur, distortion, noise, and artistic filters, enabling users to enhance and transform their images creatively. [10]
Scripting and Automation: GIMP supports scripting languages like Python, Perl, and Scheme, allowing users to automate repetitive tasks and extend the software's functionality through custom scripts and plugins. [11]
Cross-Platform Compatibility: GIMP is available for multiple operating systems, including GNU/Linux, macOS, and Windows, ensuring a consistent experience across different platforms. [11]
GIMP pricing
GIMP is completely free and open-source software, making it accessible to users without any financial barriers. [10] Users can download and use GIMP without paying any licensing fees or subscription costs. [10] While GIMP itself is free, users may choose to purchase additional resources, such as books, tutorials, or courses, to enhance their learning experience and proficiency with the software.
GIMP pros and cons
Pros
Free and Open-Source: GIMP is free to download, use, and distribute, making it an accessible option for individuals and organizations with limited budgets. [10]
Powerful Editing Capabilities: Despite being free, GIMP offers a comprehensive set of tools and features for advanced image editing and manipulation. [10]
Cross-Platform Compatibility: GIMP is available for multiple operating systems, ensuring a consistent experience across different platforms. [11]
Extensible and Customizable: GIMP supports scripting languages and plugins, allowing users to extend its functionality and automate repetitive tasks. [11]
Active Community: GIMP has a large and active community of users and developers who contribute to its ongoing development and provide support. [9]
Cons
Steep Learning Curve: GIMP's interface and workflow can be complex and may require a significant learning curve, especially for users transitioning from other popular image editing software. [12]
Limited Support for Certain File Formats: While GIMP supports a wide range of file formats, it may lack support for some proprietary or specialized formats used in specific industries or applications. [10]
Performance Issues: Depending on the hardware and project complexity, GIMP may experience performance issues or lag, particularly when working with large or high-resolution images. [10]
Lack of Certain Advanced Features: Compared to some commercial alternatives, GIMP may lack certain advanced features or tools required for specialized tasks, such as 3D modeling or video editing. [10]
GIMP stands out as a powerful and versatile free graphic design software, offering a comprehensive set of features for image editing and manipulation. While it may have a steeper learning curve and some limitations compared to commercial alternatives, its open-source nature, active community, and continuous development make it a compelling choice for users seeking a cost-effective solution.
Inkscape features
Inkscape is a free and open-source vector drawing application available for Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems. It is distributed under the GPLv3+ license and aims to support illustrators, designers, web designers, or anyone interested in creating vector graphics. [13] [14] Inkscape offers a wide range of features for vector design and digital illustrations:
Vector Drawing Tools: Inkscape provides a comprehensive set of tools for creating and manipulating vector shapes, including bezier curves, rectangles, ellipses, stars, spirals, and freehand drawing tools. [15]
Object Manipulation: Users can easily transform, rotate, scale, and skew objects, as well as group, ungroup, and align them with precision. [15]
Layers and Masking: Inkscape supports layers and layer masks, enabling users to work on different elements of a design separately and combine them seamlessly. [15]
Text and Typography: The software offers advanced text tools, including support for various font formats, text on paths, and text styling options. [15]
Filters and Effects: Inkscape comes with a vast collection of filters and effects, such as blurs, distortions, and artistic filters, allowing users to enhance and transform their designs creatively. [15]
SVG Support: As a vector graphics editor, Inkscape natively supports the Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) format, ensuring high-quality output and scalability for various applications. [14]
Cross-Platform Compatibility: Inkscape is available for multiple operating systems, ensuring a consistent experience across different platforms. [14]
Inkscape pricing
Inkscape is completely free and open-source software, making it accessible to users without any financial barriers. [13] [14] Users can download and use Inkscape without paying any licensing fees or subscription costs. [13] While Inkscape itself is free, users may choose to purchase additional resources, such as books, tutorials, or courses, to enhance their learning experience and proficiency with the software.
Inkscape pros and cons
Pros
Free and Open-Source: Inkscape is free to download, use, and distribute, making it an accessible option for individuals and organizations with limited budgets. [15]
Powerful Vector Editing Capabilities: Despite being free, Inkscape offers a comprehensive set of tools and features for advanced vector design and illustration. [15]
Cross-Platform Compatibility: Inkscape is available for multiple operating systems, ensuring a consistent experience across different platforms. [14]
Active Community: Inkscape has a large and active community of users and developers who contribute to its ongoing development and provide support. [15]
Ease of Use: Many users find Inkscape extremely easy to use, even for creating complex designs and illustrations. [15]
Cons
Steep Learning Curve: While easy for some, Inkscape's interface and workflow can be complex and may require a significant learning curve, especially for users transitioning from other popular vector graphics software. [15]
Limited Support for Certain File Formats: While Inkscape supports a wide range of file formats, it may lack support for some proprietary or specialized formats used in specific industries or applications. [15]
Performance Issues: Depending on the hardware and project complexity, Inkscape may experience performance issues or lag, particularly when working with large or complex vector designs. [15]
Lack of Certain Advanced Features: Compared to some commercial alternatives, Inkscape may lack certain advanced features or tools required for specialized tasks, such as 3D modeling or animation. [15]
Background Removal Challenges: Some users have reported that background removal can be time-consuming in Inkscape, especially for complex images. [14]
Inkscape stands out as a powerful and versatile free vector graphics software, offering a comprehensive set of features for creating and editing vector designs and illustrations. While it may have a steeper learning curve and some limitations compared to commercial alternatives, its open-source nature, active community, and continuous development make it a compelling choice for users seeking a cost-effective solution.
Pixlr features
Pixlr is a suite of user-friendly online photo editors, design tools, and AI tools accessible through a web browser, mobile, and desktop platforms. [16] It offers a wide range of features, including:
Modern AI Tools: Pixlr incorporates cutting-edge AI tools such as an AI image generator, AI generative fill, AI remove background, AI remove object, and AI image expand. [16]
Versatile Photo Editing: As a versatile photo editing platform, Pixlr provides a comprehensive set of tools and features for enhancing and manipulating images, catering to both beginners and experienced photo editors. [16]
Browser-Based Accessibility: Pixlr offers a convenient web-based solution, allowing users to access its tools and features through a web browser without the need for downloads or installations. [16]
AI Image Generation: In addition to photo editing capabilities, Pixlr incorporates AI image generation, further enhancing its capabilities as a comprehensive visual content creation platform. [16]
Intuitive Interface: Pixlr is designed with a user-friendly interface, making it accessible and suitable for users of all skill levels, from beginners to professionals. [16]
Diverse Editing Tools: Pixlr boasts an array of features, including adjusting brightness and contrast, adding text and overlays, applying filters and effects, retouching portraits, and creating captivating collages. [16]
Cross-Platform Availability: Pixlr is accessible across various platforms, including web browsers, iOS, and Android devices, ensuring seamless photo editing experience regardless of the device used. [16]
Pixlr pricing
Pixlr offers a range of pricing options to cater to different user needs:
Free Plan: Pixlr provides a free version with basic features for cropping, resizing, adjusting brightness and contrast, and more. [17]
Paid Plans:
Plus Plan: An ad-free plan with unlimited saves and 80 monthly AI credits. [17]
Premium Plan: Full access to all premium features across all platforms, with 1000 monthly AI credits, private mode for AI generations, and access to a vast library of fonts, templates, elements, animations, and more. [17]
Team Plan: Designed for teams, this plan includes 5 premium seats and 1000 monthly AI credits per seat. [17]
Enterprise Plan: For larger corporations, Pixlr offers an Enterprise plan catering to users across the entire domain. [16]
Additional Options:
AI Credit Pack: Users can top up their accounts with additional AI credits to get more out of the generative tools. [17]
Gift Card: Pixlr offers gift cards for Plus or Premium subscriptions, making them a perfect gift for creative friends or family members. [17]
Education Plan: Pixlr provides a free education plan with Pixlr upgrades via the PixlrEdu subscription for schools, higher learning institutions, and lifelong learners interested in improving their design skills. [17]
Pixlr pros and cons
Pros
User-friendly interface suitable for beginners and professionals alike. [16]
Minimal learning curve, allowing users to start editing photos with confidence. [16]
Comprehensive set of photo editing tools, including basic adjustments and advanced enhancements. [16]
Convenient web-based access without the need for downloads or installations. [16]
Cross-platform availability on web browsers, iOS, and Android devices. [16]
Incorporation of AI-driven tools for image generation and manipulation. [16]
Cost-effective options with a free plan and affordable paid subscriptions. [16]
Cons
The free version has limited features and may lack advanced functionalities. [18]
Certain premium features and unlimited access to AI tools require a paid subscription. [18]
Performance issues or lag may occur when working with large or high-resolution images. [18]
Limited support for certain proprietary or specialized file formats. [18]
Presence of advertisements in the free version, which can be frustrating for some users. [18]
Pixlr stands out as a versatile and user-friendly photo editing and design platform, offering a range of features and pricing options to cater to diverse user needs, from casual users to professionals and teams. With its combination of traditional editing tools and AI-driven capabilities, Pixlr provides an accessible and cost-effective solution for creating and enhancing visual content.
Figma features
Figma is a cloud-based design tool that revolutionizes how you create, prototype, and collaborate on design projects. [19] It offers a versatile platform that seamlessly blends interface design and prototyping, making it an indispensable asset for designers, teams, and organizations. Some of its key features include:
Design and Prototyping: Figma allows you to design and prototype in one place, enabling you to create wireframes, prototypes, graphic designs, and develop UI/UX elements seamlessly. [19]
Real-time Collaboration: The standout benefit of Figma is its superior collaboration capabilities. You can collaborate directly on the design interface in real-time with others worldwide, streamlining the design process and enhancing teamwork and communication. [19]
Cloud-Based Accessibility: Operating in the cloud, Figma allows you to access and work on your projects from any device with internet connectivity. [19]
Feedback and Iteration: Figma facilitates seamless feedback and iteration, with commenting and version control options. [19]
User-Friendly Interface: Figma boasts a drag-and-drop interface and various design assets, making it robust and user-friendly. [19]
Advanced Features: Figma offers advanced features like Vector Networks, which allow you to create and manipulate lines and shapes intuitively, as well as code generation capabilities to bridge the gap between design and development. [19]
Design Systems: Figma supports the creation and management of design systems, which are collections of reusable components and standards that help maintain consistency across designs. [19]
Plugins and Integrations: Figma allows for the incorporation of plugins and integrations, extending the platform's functionality with additional tools or services. [19]
Animation and Micro-Interactions: Figma enables designers to create and demonstrate small-scale animations and micro-interactions within the design interface. [19]
Figma pricing
Figma offers a range of pricing options to suit different needs and budgets:
Figma Professional Plan: Available at $15 per month for individual designers or small product teams. [19]
Organization and Enterprise Plans: For larger organizations seeking advanced features and administrative controls, Figma offers tailored pricing based on specific needs. [19]
Free Plan: Figma also provides a free plan suitable for individuals or small teams, offering basic features and functionalities. [20]
Figma pros and cons
Pros
Real-time Collaboration: Enables multiple users to work on a design simultaneously, enhancing teamwork and communication. [20]
Cross-Platform Accessibility: Figma is web-based and accessible across various operating systems. [20]
Versatile Exporting Options: Projects can be exported in different developer-friendly formats. [20]
Inclusive Pricing: Offers a free plan suitable for individuals or small teams. [20]
Streamlined Prototyping: Allows users to quickly turn ideas into interactive experiences. [20]
Expansive Component Library: Accelerates design with ready-to-use elements. [20]
Seamless Integrations: Connects with tools like Slack for effortless asset management. [20]
Cons
Figma stands out as a multipurpose platform that revolutionizes the way digital designs are crafted, merging versatility with user-friendly features and enabling dynamic collaborative efforts in real-time. [20]
Krita features
Krita is a professional free and open-source painting program designed for artists seeking affordable art tools. According to the Krita Foundation, it caters to artists of all sizes, from individual freelancers to large art studios. [21] [22] Krita is widely embraced by concept artists, texture and matte painters, illustrators, comics artists, and animation studios. [23]
Krita offers an intuitive and customizable user interface, allowing artists to tailor it to their specific workflows. Users have the flexibility to create personalized shortcuts for frequently used tools. [23] It provides a diverse collection of over 100 professionally crafted brushes, encompassing a wide range of effects, offering artists ample options to elevate their artwork. [23]
Krita includes three different methods to smooth and stabilize brush strokes, making it particularly beneficial for artists with unsteady hands. These stabilizers contribute to creating smoother lines and enhancing overall brush control. [23] It incorporates built-in vector tools that facilitate the creation of comic panels. Artists can choose from a variety of word bubble templates available in the vector library and customize them to suit their desired shapes. The text tool enables the addition of text to artwork, utilizing the SVG format for vector management. [23]
Krita boasts more than 9 unique brush engines, empowering users to customize their brushes according to their specific requirements. Each brush engine offers a wide array of settings, allowing artists to tailor their brushes to their liking. Krita's tagging system enables the organization and easy access of custom brushes. [23] Its wrap-around mode simplifies the creation of seamless textures and patterns by referencing the image along the x and y axes, enabling artists to seamlessly continue their painting without manual offsetting. [23]
Krita's resource manager enables users to import brush and texture packs from other artists, expanding their creative toolkit. Additionally, artists can create their own brush bundles and share them with the Krita community. The resource area provides access to a wide variety of brush packs. [23] Krita's animation workspace transforms the software into a robust animation studio. Artists can layer their animations, customize onion skinning, and export the final results as videos. The software also supports audio import, making it suitable for creating animated content. [23]
Krita offers a range of drawing aids to assist artists with vanishing points and straight lines. The Assistant Tool provides 9 unique assistants to help artists achieve precise shapes. Multiple assistants can be utilized simultaneously during the drawing process. [23] In addition to its painting capabilities, Krita supports various layer types, including vector, filter, group, and file layers, allowing artists to easily combine, order, and flatten layers to maintain an organized workflow. [21]
Krita pricing
Krita is completely free and open-source software, making it accessible to users without any financial barriers. [21] [23] Users can download and use Krita without paying any licensing fees or subscription costs. [21] [23] While Krita itself is free, users may choose to purchase additional resources, such as books, tutorials, or courses, to enhance their learning experience and proficiency with the software. [21]
Krita is open-source and accepts donations for the continued development of the software. There's also a paid version on Steam, Microsoft Store, and the App Store for Mac users, offering a stable option for basic photo editing without requiring a monthly subscription. [24]
Krita pros and cons
Pros
Free and Open-Source: Krita is free to download, use, and distribute, making it an accessible option for individuals and organizations with limited budgets. [21] [23]
Powerful Editing Capabilities: Despite being free, Krita offers a comprehensive set of tools and features for advanced digital painting, illustration, and animation. [21] [24]
Intuitive Interface: Many users find Krita's interface intuitive and easy to navigate, even for beginners. The workspace is customizable, allowing users to arrange tools and panels to suit their workflow. [21] [24]
Extensive Brush Library: Krita offers a vast library of brushes, each customizable to create unique effects. The brush engines allow for further customization, providing artists with endless possibilities. [21] [23]
Advanced Color Management: Krita supports various color spaces and offers advanced color management tools, including HDR painting, color palettes, and a color wheel to help manage colors effectively. [21]
Regular Updates: The Krita Foundation regularly releases updates that include new features, improvements, and bug fixes, ensuring Krita's continuous evolution. [21]
Cross-Platform Compatibility: Krita is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it accessible to users on different operating systems. [21]
Cons
Resource Intensive: Krita can be demanding on system resources, especially when working with large files or complex projects. Users with older or less powerful computers may experience performance issues. [21]
Learning Curve: Although user-friendly, Krita has a wide range of features that can be overwhelming for beginners. It may take some time to learn how to use all the tools effectively. [21]
Limited Vector Tools: Krita's vector tools are not as advanced as those found in dedicated vector graphics software. If extensive vector editing capabilities are needed, users may need to use another tool alongside Krita. [21]
Occasional Bugs: As with any software, Krita can have bugs or stability issues, although the development team works hard to address these. [21]
No Native Mobile Version: While Krita is available on desktop platforms, there is no native mobile version, limiting its use for artists who prefer to work on tablets or smartphones. [21]
Krita stands out as a powerful and versatile free digital painting and illustration software, offering a comprehensive set of features and tools for artists of all levels. Its open-source nature, active community, and continuous development make it a compelling choice for those seeking a cost-effective solution for their creative endeavors.
Gravit Designer features
Gravit Designer is a cloud-based vector graphics designing solution that helps graphic designers create illustrations, mock-ups, or wireframes. [25] It offers a range of features, including object clipping and styling, character and paragraph controls, text boxes, blending, and more. [25] According to the vendor, Gravit Designer Pro provides powerful vector editing capabilities, allowing users to have precise control over shapes, paths, and nodes, with options for resizing, rotating, skewing, and aligning objects. [26] It offers intuitive tools for creating precise and detailed designs, enabling users to manipulate shapes, paths, and nodes with precision. [26]
Gravit Designer Pro includes comprehensive text and typography tools for customization. Users can add text elements, customize fonts, adjust spacing, and apply various text effects, with support for advanced features like kerning, tracking, and ligatures. [26] It also incorporates image editing capabilities, allowing users to enhance and modify images within their designs by applying filters, adjusting colors, cropping, resizing, and adding effects. [26]
Some notable features highlighted by users include:
The bezigon tool for creating smooth curves around the points of a shape. [27]
The ability to close an incomplete path or open one to add more points. [27]
Creating text paths along any path or shape, with options to set the text along the inside or outside of the path. [27]
Adding multiple borders, fills, and effects per layer for advanced styling. [27]
Creating styles that set border, fill, effects, and text settings, which can be applied to multiple objects and updated globally. [27]
Typing "lorem" into a text field and pressing space to automatically generate a "Lorem ipsum" placeholder text paragraph. [27]
Gravit Designer Pro is also praised for its compatibility with various file formats, allowing users to import and export designs in popular formats such as SVG, PDF, PNG, and JPEG, facilitating collaboration and sharing with clients and colleagues. [26]
Gravit Designer pricing
Gravit Designer Pro has a single pricing plan, starting from $48.79 per year, with a free trial available. [25] [28] The free version of Gravit Designer provides access to basic features, including a limited set of templates and design elements, but with storage limitations and restricted access to advanced features. [28]
The Pro plan, priced at $49.00 per year, offers access to all features, unlimited cloud storage, advanced export options, and priority support. It also removes watermarks from designs and provides access to more advanced tools and features. [28]
Gravit Designer pros and cons
Pros
Comprehensive toolset for creating detailed vector graphics, including advanced path and text tools, layer management, and support for complex shapes and gradients. [28]
Cross-platform availability as a web app and desktop application for multiple operating systems, allowing users to work on projects from any device. [28]
User-friendly interface with a clean design, making it easy to find and use various tools and features. [28]
Cloud integration for saving and accessing projects from anywhere, with support for collaborative features for team projects. [28]
Affordable Pro plan, providing access to a wide range of advanced features and tools, making it a cost-effective solution for professional designers. [28]
Ability to import and export files in multiple formats, such as SVG, PDF, PNG, and JPEG, ensuring compatibility with other design tools and software. [26]
Cons
Limited free plan, with many advanced features and assets restricted. [28]
Subscription-based pricing model, which may be a consideration for some users compared to one-time purchase options. [28]
Performance issues reported by some users, such as slow loading times, particularly when working on large or complex projects. [28]
Feature limitations compared to more comprehensive design tools like Adobe Illustrator or CorelDRAW, which may be a drawback for advanced users. [28]
Requirement for an internet connection to use the web app, which can be a limitation for users in areas with unreliable internet access. [28]
Somewhat limited range of vector design tools compared to other software. [2]
Gravit Designer Pro is best suited for design hobbyists, aspiring professionals, small to medium-sized businesses, freelancers, and individuals looking to create visual designs without a significant financial investment. [26] Its cloud-based nature, affordable pricing, and cross-platform availability make it an accessible option for those seeking a versatile vector graphics design tool.
Vectr features
Vectr is a free vector graphics editor that simplifies the creation of vector graphics. [29] It offers a user-friendly interface and a variety of features that make it accessible to both beginners and professionals. [29] Vectr allows you to create scalable vector graphics (SVG) that maintain their quality at any size, making it ideal for creating logos, icons, and other graphics that need to be resized frequently. [29] [30]
One of Vectr's standout features is real-time collaboration, allowing multiple users to work on the same project simultaneously. [29] This feature is perfect for teams and educational environments. Vectr's intuitive drag-and-drop interface and straightforward tools make it easy to learn and use, even for those without design experience. [29] [30]
Vectr is available as both a web app and a desktop application for multiple operating systems, allowing you to work on your projects from any device. [29] [30] It also incorporates time-saving tools and AI-powered features to streamline the design process. [31] Vectr aims to make graphic editing smarter, faster, and easier. [31]
While Vectr offers a robust set of tools for most users, advanced designers may find it lacking some features available in paid vector graphics tools like Adobe Illustrator. [29] Some users also report performance issues, such as slow loading times, particularly when working on large or complex projects. [29] [32]
Vectr pricing
Vectr's basic graphics editor is free forever, making it accessible to everyone, regardless of budget. [29] [31] However, Vectr also offers paid plans with additional features and storage:
Additional AI credits can be purchased separately, with discounts for larger credit bundles. [33]
Vectr pros and cons
Pros
User-friendly interface and easy to learn, even for beginners. [29] [30] [32]
Supports real-time collaboration for team projects. [29] [32]
Creates scalable vector graphics suitable for logos and icons. [29] [30]
Available as a web app and desktop application for cross-platform compatibility. [29] [30]
Incorporates AI-powered tools to streamline the design process. [31] [32]
Offers transparent PNG export as a standard feature. [32]
Cons
Limited features and elements in the free version. [32]
Performance issues and slow loading times for complex projects. [29] [32]
Requires an internet connection at all times, preventing offline work. [32]
Limited support for importing and exporting certain file formats. [32]
Lacks some advanced features found in paid vector graphics software. [29] [32]
User interface elements like font names and resizing can be challenging. [32]
Vectr is best suited for individuals, small businesses, and educational environments seeking a free and user-friendly vector graphics editor with real-time collaboration capabilities. While it may lack some advanced features, its accessibility and ease of use make it a valuable tool for creating scalable graphics and designs.
VistaCreate features
VistaCreate is a powerful and user-friendly graphic design platform that opens up a world of creative possibilities for businesses and individuals alike. [34] At its core, VistaCreate serves as a versatile and free graphic design tool, providing access to a treasure trove of professionally-designed templates that cater to various needs and industries. From social media posts and web graphics to printable materials, VistaCreate's templates are customizable, allowing you to effortlessly adapt them to your unique branding and ideas. [34]
One of the standout features of VistaCreate is its Creative Assets library, offering a staggering collection of over 70 million royalty-free stock photos, videos, and vectors. [34] This vast repository ensures that you will always find the perfect visuals to complement your projects, making the creative process seamless and inspiring.
For those seeking even more advanced design capabilities, VistaCreate Pro unlocks a whole new level of possibilities. With Pro, you gain access to thousands of premium design templates, a Background Remover tool, and an impressive assortment of animation effects to captivate your audience on social media platforms. [34]
Collaboration is effortless with VistaCreate, as it allows you to invite up to 10 team members to work on projects simultaneously. [34] This collaborative approach fosters creativity and ensures that your designs are refined to perfection. VistaCreate is available as both a web and mobile application, allowing you to work on your projects from any device. [35]
VistaCreate pricing
VistaCreate offers two main plans to cater to different user needs. The Starter plan provides essential tools and resources for users to create professional designs without any cost. [34] On the other hand, the Pro plan, priced at $13 per month, offers advanced features and a wider range of design assets to elevate the creative process. [35] VistaCreate also offers a 14-day free trial for the Pro plan, ensuring users can test the platform's full capabilities before committing. [35]
VistaCreate pros and cons
Pros
Cons
VistaCreate is part of the Vista family of products and services for small businesses. With VistaPrint, 99designs by Vista, and Vista x Wix, VistaCreate aims to be the expert design and marketing partner for small businesses. [35]
Which is the Best?
Exploring the landscape of free graphic design software reveals a wealth of options that cater to both amateur and professional creators alike. While individual tools like Adobe Express, Canva, and GIMP offer distinctive sets of features tailored to various creative needs, they often balance their offerings between free and paid plans to cater to a broader audience. Such diversity not only underscores the importance of matching software capabilities with project requirements but also highlights the necessity of assessing tool availability across different platforms, ensuring accessibility regardless of whether users prefer PC, Mac, iOS, or Android devices.
The recommendations made throughout this exploration serve as a cornerstone for anyone looking to dive into the digital design world or enhance their existing toolkit. As each software brings unique strengths to the table, from user-friendly interfaces to advanced editing capabilities, the choice ultimately hinges on the specific needs and skill levels of the user. Whether embarking on complex design projects or crafting simple graphics, the key is to leverage the right tool that aligns with your creative vision and workflow. For those keen to delve deeper and access exclusive resources, check out special deals, discounts, and offers from MELOGRAPHICS Partners, ensuring you have the best tools at your fingertips to bring your creative ideas to life.
What's Your Favorite FREE Graphic Design Software?Choose your go-to app and share your thoughts in the comments. |
FAQs
What are the top free graphic design programs available in 2024?
Several free graphic design software options are highly recommended for 2024, including Canva, Lunacy, Paint 3D, Adobe Spark, Krita (available on Windows, Mac, Android, Linux), Corel Vector (formerly Gravit Designer, available on PC, Mac, Chrome OS, Linux), Blender, and Inkscape, all of which are available on Windows, Mac, and Linux.Which software is commonly used by professional graphic designers?
Professional graphic designers frequently use software like Photoshop for image editing, Sketch for vector-based web, app, and interface design (available only on Mac), Illustrator, InDesign, and After Effects. These tools are essential for various aspects of graphic design work.Is Canva likely to replace graphic designers?
No, Canva will not replace graphic designers. Despite its ability to create impressive designs, Canva cannot replicate the unique value and creative expertise that professional graphic designers provide. This topic is explored further, detailing the specific reasons why graphic designers remain irreplaceable.Will graphic designers still be needed in the future?
Yes, graphic designers will continue to be in demand. Although AI and automation are integrating into graphic design, primarily for tasks like image recognition and layout suggestions, these technologies are expected to enhance the creative process rather than replace human designers.
Notes & References
Sources
[1] - https://www.trustradius.com/products/adobe-express/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons
[2] - https://helpx.adobe.com/express/using/whats-new/mobile-2024.html
[3] - https://www.elegantthemes.com/blog/design/adobe-express-review
[4] - https://www.adobe.com/express/
[5] - https://sonary.com/b/canva/canva+graphic-design/
[6] - https://www.canva.com/pricing/
[7] - https://thimpress.com/canva-pricing-plans-how-much-is-canva-pro/
[8] - https://www.canva.com/design-trends/
[9] - https://www.trustradius.com/products/GIMP/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons
[10] - https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/gnu-image-manipulation-program-gimp
[11] - https://www.gimp.org/
[12] - https://www.quora.com/Is-it-necessary-to-pay-for-the-full-version-of-GIMP-when-there-are-free-alternatives-such-as-Paint-net-and-Pixlr-Editor-available
[13] - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AAhVqLyKk4U
[14] - https://www.trustradius.com/products/inkscape/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons
[15] - https://www.softwareadvice.com/graphic-design/inkscape-profile/reviews/
[16] - https://pixlr.com/
[17] - https://pixlr.com/pricing/
[18] - https://www.softwareadvice.com/graphic-design/pixlr-profile/reviews/
[19] - https://theprocesshacker.com/blog/figma-review/
[20] - https://www.steplabs.xyz/blogs/the-ultimate-design-showdown-figma-vs-adobe-xd-vs-sketch---2024s-leading-ui-ux-design-tools-compared
[21] - https://articlesbase.com/business/marketing-and-advertising/digital-marketing/tools-and-software/what-is-krita-pricing-and-features-review-updated-for-2024/
[22] - https://krita.org/en/
[23] - https://www.trustradius.com/products/krita/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons
[24] - https://www.capterra.com/p/209859/Krita/reviews/
[25] - https://www.getapp.com/website-ecommerce-software/a/gravit-designer-pro/
[26] - https://www.trustradius.com/products/gravit-designer-pro/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons
[27] - https://www.elegantthemes.com/blog/design/g
Disclosures
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