The Best Graphic Design Tools of 2024

Software and Apps Review

As we navigate through the vast sea of graphic design tools and apps available in 2024, it’s essential to remember that the right tools are not just about the latest features or the most advanced technologies. They’re about what enables us to bring our creative visions to life most effectively and enjoyably. So what are the best graphic design tools today? Let’s do a little software and apps review through the lens of experience and a deep-seated passion for design.

Adobe Creative Cloud: The Undisputed Leader

Adobe’s Creative Cloud continues to be the cornerstone of my design workflow. Photoshop and Illustrator, with their rich feature sets and seamless integration, cater to virtually any creative requirement. Here are the top three that I use every day:

The cloud-based functionality and constant updates ensure that they remain relevant, making them indispensable for designers of all calibers. In 2024, Adobe has introduced innovative AI-driven tools that further streamline the design process, proving that old dogs can indeed learn new tricks.

Photoshop and Illustrator, with their rich feature sets and seamless integration, cater to virtually any creative requirement.

Affinity Designer: Quality Meets Affordability

Affinity Designer is a testament to the fact that high-quality design software doesn’t need to come with a subscription. Its one-off payment model and robust performance make it a favorite among designers looking for an Adobe alternative. The latest version introduces advanced vector tools that rival Illustrator’s, making it a formidable contender in the design space.

Procreate: Unleashing Creativity on the Go

For digital artists and illustrators, Procreate offers an unparalleled drawing experience on the iPad. The tactile feel of the Apple Pencil combined with Procreate’s intuitive interface and expansive brush library fosters a creative freedom that’s hard to find elsewhere. The 2024 updates have only expanded its capabilities, solidifying its position as a must-have for creatives on the move.

Kittl: Creative Tempaltes and AI

Kittl is a design platform that simplifies the creation of professional-quality designs with its AI-powered tools. It’s suitable for a wide range of projects, including merchandise, social media, logos, and more. Offering a user-friendly interface and high-end templates, Kittl caters to both beginners and experienced designers, facilitating easy customization and print-ready outputs. Its emphasis on innovation and ease of use makes it a go-to solution for anyone looking to unleash their creative potential efficiently.

Try Kittl for yourself! Sign up now to claim your 25 free AI credits!

Canva: Democratizing Design

Canva has done wonders for making design accessible to non-designers. Its intuitive drag-and-drop interface and a vast array of templates enable anyone to create stunning designs without a steep learning curve. While professional designers may seek more advanced tools, Canva’s value in empowering people to express their creativity cannot be overstated.

For a closer look at Canva (and a new app called Kittl), please check out my blog post called Canva Vs. Kittl.

Figma: Redefining Collaboration

In the world of design collaboration, Figma stands out for its real-time, browser-based interface. The 2024 version enhances its already impressive collaborative features, making it an essential tool for teams looking to streamline their design process. While I personally lean towards Adobe for my projects, Figma’s approach to teamwork is genuinely revolutionary.

InVision: From Prototypes to Collaboration

InVision has evolved from a simple prototyping tool to a comprehensive design collaboration platform. Its latest updates focus on facilitating better communication and feedback within design teams, making it a valuable tool for managing complex projects. Although it’s not my go-to for every project, its utility in a team environment is undeniable.

Exploring New Frontiers

Each year brings new and emerging technologies that challenge the status quo. As we look to the future, we see AI-driven design assistants, augmented reality (AR) tools, and other innovations reshaping the landscape of graphic design. Staying curious and open to new possibilities is the key to evolving as a designer.

While I hold a deep affection for Photoshop and Illustrator, the world of graphic design tools is rich and varied. From the tactile joy of drawing in Procreate to the collaborative wonders of Figma, each tool has its place in the designer’s toolkit. As we embrace the tools of today and tomorrow, let’s not forget the essence of what makes us designers – our creativity, our passion, and our unwavering pursuit of beauty and clarity in all that we create.

Your journey through the landscape of graphic design tools may differ from mine, but at the heart of our exploration is a shared love for creation. I encourage you to experiment, to find what tools resonate with your unique style, and to never stop learning. The best tool, after all, is the one that helps you bring your ideas to life.

Having been a user of Photoshop and Illustrator since the 1990s, I’ve witnessed firsthand the evolution of graphic design software. Despite the plethora of new tools that have emerged, I find myself returning to these Adobe classics daily.