Digital Illustration Softwares
October 27th, 2020
New to the realm of digital illustration and stuck between various softwares and programs that claim to be the best of the best? Don’t worry, we’re here to lead you down the path that works best for you. Below are some of the most top rated digital softwares, along with reasons why they compare differently to others.
Affinity Designer
Starting off with Affinity Designer, it’s known to be a precise program for vector graphic making that was released in 2014. A great thing about this software is that it is both Mac and Windows friendly, as well as being iPad friendly for those who might prefer working on their Apple iPad. Below are some pros and cons to consider when thinking about trying out this software.
Pros
- Supports vectors
- Mac and Windows friendly
- Precise control when using brushes, curves, etc.
Cons
- Not free, payment of $49.99 (however just a one time purchase)
- Known to have a slightly confusing interface
Procreate
Procreate is a well-known program for iPad users that create digital illustrations. It’s been around since 2011 and has been rising over the years for usage. Many small shop owners on platforms such as Etsy, Red Bubble and other online web stores use Procreate as their primary place to create artwork to sell to others. Here are some great tips throughout pros and cons for when it comes to using Procreate.
Pros
- Has a large range of brushes to select from which gives you many different conceptual styles to work with
- Can create all types of work including time lapses and animations
- Has touch features, like using your own fingers for many different shortcuts
- According to creativebloq.com, it has a natural drawing experience for the user
- Isn’t free but is affordable at a one time purchase of $9.99
Cons
- Made for iPad only
- Relies heavily on a compatible stylus (such as an Apple Pencil for example)
- No vectors
Adobe Photoshop
Adobe has been known to hit it out of the park with their softwares, one major one being Adobe Photoshop. It’s one program that’s been around the longest, ever since 1990 in fact. It’s used for many different purposes, whether it’s image altering or designing. However, below are some pros and cons that come with it.
Pros
- Mac and Windows friendly
- Great for not only designers, but photographers as well because of its many image adjusting features
- Has a complimentary app along with it for other devices
- Can easily save all your brushes, images, colors etc. throughout all devices you’re logged on into
Cons
- Subscription based, recurring payments (different package pricing to choose from)
- Doesn’t support vector
These are just a few of the many different softwares made for digital illustrators, but with exploration as an artist you will start to discover what works best for you and what you want to achieve with your future work. Make sure to subscribe to not miss out on future updated articles on digital illustration softwares and programs on the rise!