The 10 Best Graphic Design Software in 2025

The world of graphic design is evolving rapidly. With new interfaces, AI integration, improved mobile and cloud compatibility, graphic design software must constantly adapt. In 2025, here are ten of the best tools I recommend for both professionals and hobbyists, along with their key strengths — and where possible, links to explore them.

1. Adobe Photoshop

Type: Raster / Image Editor (photo, retouching, composition)
Why adopt it: Industry standard, very comprehensive toolset, many new AI-powered features (smart removal, image part generation, etc.). (TechRadar)
Useful link: Adobe Photoshop

2. Adobe Illustrator

Type: Vector Graphics (logos, illustrations, typography)
Why adopt it: Top choice for vector design, sharp output at any scale, new AI tools for shape and pattern generation. (Creative Bloq)
Useful link: Adobe Illustrator

3. Affinity Designer 2

Type: Vector + Light Raster
Why adopt it: More affordable alternative to Adobe, often no subscription, smooth interface, excellent performance — ideal for those who want a powerful tool without a high monthly cost. (TechRadar)
Useful link: Affinity Designer

4. CorelDRAW

Type: Vector & Comprehensive Design
Why adopt it: Excellent for packaging, advertising, layout-intensive design. Robust features for professionals. (bird.marketing)
Useful link: CorelDRAW

5. Sketch

Type: UX/UI, Web & Mobile Interfaces
Why adopt it: Widely used in interface design. Plugins, collaboration, prototyping, simplicity — perfect for designers focused on apps and web projects. (bird.marketing)
Useful link: Sketch

6. Canva

Type: Assisted Design, Templates, Very Accessible Tools
Why adopt it: Ideal for beginners and quick content creation (social posts, flyers, presentations). Many templates, AI features to help generate visuals quickly. (TechRadar)
Useful link: Canva

7. Kittl

Type: Online Platform / SaaS for Light Graphic Design & Various Creations
Why adopt it: Lets you create logos, posters, marketing visuals easily with templates, AI tools, fonts, and mockups. Great intermediate choice for quick creation without being an expert. (Wikipedia)
Useful link: Kittl

8. Microsoft Designer

Type: Online / Assisted Creation / AI-Oriented for Various Content
Why adopt it: Microsoft has added interesting AI features, simple interface to create visuals quickly, good for users who don’t want to dive into complex software. (Wikipedia)
Useful link: Microsoft Designer

9. GIMP

Type: Free / Open Source Raster Image Editor
Why adopt it: Great free tool, many features for photo retouching and composition, though sometimes less polished than Photoshop. Perfect for budget-conscious users. (bird.marketing)
Useful link: GIMP

10. Inkscape

Type: Free / Open Source Vector Graphics
Why adopt it: Free alternative to Illustrator, often sufficient for most vector work. Active community, good support, SVG export, etc. (bird.marketing)
Useful link: Inkscape

Conclusion

In 2025, the choice of graphic design software depends largely on what you want to do, your budget, and the level of precision or complexity you need. For professional use, tools like Photoshop or Illustrator remain essential. But for most users — freelancers, SMEs, or hobbyists — excellent free or more affordable options exist, such as Affinity Designer, Inkscape, Canva, or Kittl.