In This article focuses on the Best Online Graphic Design Tools that fit everyone’s creative requirements. Be it social media graphics or logo designs, photo editing, or infographic creation, there’s a tool available for everyone.
I will review the leading options from professional programs such as Adobe Photoshop to free tools like GIMP and Canva.
Key Points & Best Online Graphic Design Tools List
| Tool | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Adobe Photoshop | Layer-based editing, AI tools, PSD support |
| Adobe Illustrator | Scalable vector graphics, precise tools |
| Figma | Cloud collaboration, real-time editing |
| Inkscape | SVG support, node editing, filters |
| GIMP | Layer support, plugins, advanced editing |
| Clip Studio Paint | Custom brushes, AI tools, animation |
| Krita | Professional brushes, animation tools |
| Gravit Designer | Cloud storage, precision vector tools |
| CorelDRAW | Layout tools, AI-powered tracing |
| Vectr | Cloud-based, real-time collaboration |
| Pixlr | AI-powered editing, templates |
| PaintShop Pro | AI tools, RAW editing, layer effects |
| Canva | Drag-and-drop, templates, collaboration |
| Piktochart | Data visualization, infographic tools |
| Easel.ly | Customizable templates, drag-and-drop |
| Visme | Charts, animations, brand assets |
| VistaCreate | Animated designs, templates, stock media |
| PicMonkey | Filters, touch-up tools, branding |
18 Best Online Graphic Design Tools
1.Adobe Photoshop
Adobe Photoshop is the most popular program for editing photographs, creating art, and designing graphics. Photoshop provides impressive tools for professional photo retouching, compositing, and design using a complex layering system supplemented with masks and advanced AI.
From editing photographs to advertising digitally, Photoshop’s wide file format support makes it suitable for everyone.
For digital artists, cloud integration enables seamless cross-device project undertaking. While it may take time to master the software, the wealth of tutorials and community assistance makes it easier to navigate through. With a subscription finance plan, photoshop stays the number option for the serious graphic creator.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Best For | Photo editing, digital art, graphic design |
| Platform | Windows, macOS, Web (Photoshop Web) |
| Pricing | Subscription-based (Adobe Creative Cloud) |
| File Support | PSD, JPEG, PNG, TIFF, SVG, GIF, RAW, PDF |
| Key Tools | Layers, masks, AI-powered editing, filters |
| Best Features | Advanced retouching, brush customization, 3D tools |
| Collaboration | Cloud storage, real-time sharing (Adobe Cloud) |
| Ease of Use | Moderate to advanced (steep learning curve) |
| Ideal Users | Photographers, designers, artists, professionals |
| Alternatives | GIMP, Pixlr, Affinity Photo, Corel PaintShop Pro |
2.Adobe Illustrator
Primarily used to design logos, icons, illustrations, and typography, Adobe Illustrator is the authority in vector graphic software programs. Unlike a raster-based program, Illustrator uses mathematical paths so that the graphics will always be sharp no matter the size.
In addition, it comes with precision tools such as the Pen Tool, Shape Builder, and Live Paint which are essential in detailed artwork.
Adobe Illustrator excels with integration to other Adobe products making it the go to program for professional designers. As a subscription based program ilst further includes cloud storage and constant updates.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Best For | Vector design, logos, illustrations, typography |
| Platform | Windows, macOS, Web (Illustrator Web) |
| Pricing | Subscription-based (Adobe Creative Cloud) |
| File Support | AI, SVG, EPS, PDF, PNG, JPEG |
| Key Tools | Pen tool, shape builder, gradients, path editing |
| Best Features | Scalable vector graphics, precise design tools |
| Collaboration | Cloud storage, real-time collaboration (Adobe Cloud) |
| Ease of Use | Moderate to advanced (requires practice) |
| Ideal Users | Graphic designers, illustrators, branding experts |
| Alternatives | Inkscape, CorelDRAW, Affinity Designer, Gravit Designer |
3.Figma
Figma is a browser-based UI/UX design tool that allows designers to work together at the same time. It is used by product designers and teams because many users can contribute to a single design project at the same time.
It is ideal for web and mobile application design since Figma includes vector graphics, prototyping, and design systems.
There is no need for software installations and updates to different platforms because it works on a browser. It’s easy to start with Figma since its free plan is beginner-friendly, but paid plans include advanced features.
Figma isn’t perfect – there is room for improvement like enhancing a few features with versioning control, layout automation, and better transitions to other stages of work after the design is finished – however, it does already change the collaboration and creation of digital products in a positive way.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Best For | UI/UX design, prototyping, web & app design |
| Platform | Web-based, Windows, macOS |
| Pricing | Free & paid plans (Figma Pro, Organization) |
| File Support | Figma files, SVG, PNG, JPG, PDF |
| Key Tools | Vector editing, auto-layout, prototyping |
| Best Features | Real-time collaboration, cloud-based workflow |
| Collaboration | Multi-user editing, comments, version history |
| Ease of Use | Easy to moderate (intuitive UI) |
| Ideal Users | UI/UX designers, product teams, developers |
| Alternatives | Adobe XD, Sketch, InVision, Gravit Designer |
4.Inkscape
Inkscape is a free open-source vector graphics software, and a great alternative to Adobe Illustrator for many users since it integrates the majority of its features. It has a built-in support for SVG files and sophisticated tools for building scalable vector graphics like path editing, node editing, and gradient manipulation.
Hobbyists, illustrators, and designers make the best use of Inkscape because of its numerous features and low-cost premium software alternatives.
While its design may not seem as modern as some of its paid counterparts, its workings are being improved all the time by its active community. Inkscape users who cannot spend a fortune on high-end vector editing software will be pleased to learn that it works on Windows, macOS, and Linux systems.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Best For | Vector graphics, illustrations, logo design |
| Platform | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Pricing | Free & open-source |
| File Support | SVG, EPS, PDF, AI, PNG, JPEG |
| Key Tools | Pen tool, node editing, path operations, gradients |
| Best Features | Scalable vector design, advanced path editing |
| Collaboration | No built-in real-time collaboration |
| Ease of Use | Moderate (interface less polished than paid tools) |
| Ideal Users | Designers, illustrators, hobbyists |
| Alternatives | Adobe Illustrator, CorelDRAW, Gravit Designer |
5.GIMP
Adobe Photoshop has no competition, but for everyone else, the GIMP, short for the GNU Image Manipulation Program, exists. GIMP is completely free, and its functions offer powerful image editing options such as layering, inserting masks, editing brushes, and color correction.
It can also work with many file types, and is a go-to for many performing post photo retouches, digital paintings, and graphic design work. While it does not have some of the more advanced features like AI implementation that Photoshop has
It more than makes up for it with versatility due to its many plugins. Without a doubt, GIMP is a fantastic photo editor for Windows, macOS, and Linux users, even if the interface resembles anything but commercial applications.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Best For | Photo editing, digital painting, graphic design |
| Platform | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Pricing | Free & open-source |
| File Support | PSD, PNG, JPEG, TIFF, GIF, BMP |
| Key Tools | Layers, masks, brushes, color correction |
| Best Features | Advanced editing, plugin support, free alternative to Photoshop |
| Collaboration | No built-in real-time collaboration |
| Ease of Use | Moderate to advanced (requires learning curve) |
| Ideal Users | Photographers, digital artists, designers |
| Alternatives | Adobe Photoshop, Krita, Paint.NET, Pixlr |
6.Clip Studio Paint
One of the favorites among painters is Clip Studio Paint as this is adored by people indulging in illustrations, comics, and even animation.
It is well renowned for its very large library of brushes alongside further capabilities like the sensitivity level of the pen as well as integration of 3D models. As the software is dedicated to the creation of manga and comics, it is equipped with amazing features like Panels, Speech Bubbles, and vector based Line Art.
Available for Windows, macOS, iPad, and Android, it offers a one-time purchase, as well as a subscription option.
Customization features and natural brush feel is important for artists and they really appreciate it. Though it takes time to learn, Clip Studio Paint remains a go-to for professionals and hobbyists alike in digital illustration and animation.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Best For | Digital painting, comic/manga creation, illustration |
| Platform | Windows, macOS, iPad, Android |
| Pricing | One-time purchase & subscription options |
| File Support | PSD, PNG, JPEG, TIFF, BMP |
| Key Tools | Custom brushes, vector layers, 3D models, comic panel tools |
| Best Features | High pen pressure sensitivity, animation support, manga tools |
| Collaboration | No built-in real-time collaboration |
| Ease of Use | Moderate (designed for artists, but requires learning) |
| Ideal Users | Illustrators, comic/manga artists, animators |
| Alternatives | Krita, Adobe Photoshop, Procreate, Corel Painter |
7.Krita
Krita is a program for digital painting that is aimed at different classes of artists. It is completely free to use and comes with a wide variety of brushes, a great color palette, and strong blending modes, making it suitable for concept art, illustrations, and even comics.
Krita, unlike other painting programs, is fully customizable and allows the use of PSD files which instantly adds compatibility with Photoshop.
The program is also equipped with animation tools, vector layers, and perspective guides. With constantly improving community support, it is available for Windows, macOS, and even Linux.
Krita has an easy to use interface which coupled with powerful features makes it one of the best free paints out there, especially for professional digital painters.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Best For | Digital painting, concept art, illustration |
| Platform | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Pricing | Free & open-source |
| File Support | PSD, PNG, JPEG, TIFF, BMP |
| Key Tools | Custom brushes, layer management, animation tools |
| Best Features | Advanced brush engine, HDR painting, vector tools |
| Collaboration | No built-in real-time collaboration |
| Ease of Use | Moderate (artist-friendly but requires practice) |
| Ideal Users | Illustrators, concept artists, animators |
| Alternatives | Clip Studio Paint, Adobe Photoshop, Corel Painter |
8.Gravit Designer
Gravit Designer is a web-based vector design tool that comes with lots of features. It can be used online, and offers offline functionality too. It has very strong construction details for icons, illustrations, and UI parts. Unlike other web-based tools, it allows advanced vector editing, including path manipulation, and has support for layers.
Gravit Designer provides basic features within its free version, while the Pro version offers advanced features like export high-resolution graphics, export modes, and offline access.
Users from Windows, macOS, Linux, and Chrome OS can access it, making it available cross-platform. With cloud storage and a simple interface, Gravit Designer is a great software for designers looking for Adobe Illustrator alternatives.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Best For | Vector design, UI/UX, logo creation, illustrations |
| Platform | Web-based, Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome OS |
| Pricing | Free & Pro version (subscription-based) |
| File Support | SVG, PDF, PNG, JPEG, AI, EPS |
| Key Tools | Pen tool, path editing, shape builder, text tools |
| Best Features | Cloud storage, non-destructive editing, advanced typography |
| Collaboration | Cloud-based, but no real-time multi-user editing |
| Ease of Use | Easy to moderate (intuitive interface) |
| Ideal Users | Graphic designers, UI/UX designers, marketers |
| Alternatives | Adobe Illustrator, Inkscape, Vectr, CorelDRAW |
9.CorelDRAW
CorelDRAW is known as a powerful vector graphics editor. It is widely used for illustration, layout, and typography because of its versatility.
It is meant for brand designers, print media, and digital design professionals as it includes advanced vector drawing tools, artificial intelligence powered features, and a user-friendly interface.
One of its most appealing features is supporting a one time payment which makes it a better option from Adobe’s subscription service.
CorelDRAW includes features like LiveSketch, Corel Font Manager, and has seamless integration with Corel PHOTO-PAINT.
Being available in Windows and MacOs, it is one of the most used software in advertising, apparel design, and sign making as it provides a powerful tool for graphic artists and professionals.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Best For | Vector illustration, logo design, branding |
| Platform | Windows, macOS, Web-based |
| Pricing | One-time purchase & subscription options |
| File Support | CDR, AI, EPS, SVG, PDF, PNG, JPEG |
| Key Tools | Pen tool, shape builder, typography, layout tools |
| Best Features | AI-powered tracing, precise vector editing, multi-page layout |
| Collaboration | Cloud-based sharing & feedback tools |
| Ease of Use | Moderate to advanced (professional-grade tools) |
| Ideal Users | Graphic designers, illustrators, marketing professionals |
| Alternatives | Adobe Illustrator, Inkscape, Affinity Designer, Gravit Designer |
10.Vectr
Vectr is a free, cloud-hosted collaborative vector editor. Unlike other complex vector graphic programs, Vectr has a simple user-friendly interface which allows users to design scalable graphics with great ease. The software allows real-time collaboration which is great for teams working on designs simultaneously.
Although it does not contain the sophisticated feature sets found in Illustrator or CorelDRAW, it does offer some basic functionalities such as shapes, text, and path editing.
Vectr is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, and online so it is perfect for neophytes who are looking to try their hand at vector graphics without spending huge sums of money on programs.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Best For | Basic vector design, logo creation, icons |
| Platform | Web-based, Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Pricing | Free |
| File Support | SVG, PNG, JPG |
| Key Tools | Pen tool, shape editor, text tools |
| Best Features | Real-time collaboration, cloud-based editing |
| Collaboration | Multi-user editing with live updates |
| Ease of Use | Easy (beginner-friendly interface) |
| Ideal Users | Beginners, marketers, educators, casual designers |
| Alternatives | Gravit Designer, Inkscape, Adobe Illustrator |
11.Pixlr
Pixlr is an video and photo editing tool that has a friendly user interface for both new and seasoned users. It has two versions available: Pixlr X which is for fast edits and Pixlr E which is for professional use. Both versions support layer-based editing, AI-powered tools, and a variety of filters.
Unlike Photoshop, Installations are not required for using Pixlr as all the editing is done directly in the browser. Multiple file formats are supported including PSD files, PNG and JPEG.
It is a versatile tool which can be used for social media graphics, photo retouching, and even marketing materials. It is free to use with a premium plan available for those who would like to make use of a more advanced web-based photo editing application.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Best For | Photo editing, graphic design, social media visuals |
| Platform | Web-based, Windows, macOS, Mobile (iOS, Android) |
| Pricing | Free & Pro version (subscription-based) |
| File Support | PSD, PNG, JPEG, TIFF, BMP |
| Key Tools | AI-powered background remover, filters, layers, brushes |
| Best Features | Cloud-based editing, one-click enhancements, templates |
| Collaboration | No real-time multi-user editing |
| Ease of Use | Easy to moderate (intuitive interface) |
| Ideal Users | Social media creators, marketers, photographers |
| Alternatives | Adobe Photoshop, GIMP, Canva, Fotor |
12.Paint Shop Pro
PaintShop Pro is image-editing software owned by Corel Corporation. Unlike other image-editing software it does not require a subscription and can be downloaded with a one-time purchase. This software offers AI tools for text and speech recognition alongside options for inline markup and even RAW photo editing. There are a variety of options for graphic design, photo restoration, and other creative works.
The interface is user friendly and highly adaptable, making it suitable for beginners as well as for experts in the field. For those who prioritize flexibility and affordability, Paint Shop Pro stands as a reasonable Photoshop alternative despite lacking some of the most renowned features. Windows users will find PaintShop Pro ideal if they are photographers or designers who want to achieve professional results without subscription payments.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Best For | Photo editing, graphic design, digital art |
| Platform | Windows-only |
| Pricing | One-time purchase (no subscription required) |
| File Support | PSD, PNG, JPEG, TIFF, RAW, BMP, GIF |
| Key Tools | Layers, AI-powered enhancements, brushes, vector tools |
| Best Features | Advanced photo correction, AI-driven tools, customizable workspace |
| Collaboration | No built-in real-time collaboration |
| Ease of Use | Moderate (simpler than Photoshop but feature-rich) |
| Ideal Users | Photographers, digital artists, graphic designers |
| Alternatives | Adobe Photoshop, GIMP, Affinity Photo, Corel Painter |
13.Canva
Canva, a graphic designing software, is so intuitive that literally anyone can make professional designs without any technical knowledge. They offer thousands of different templates that cover a wide variety of use cases like Instagram and Facebook posts, presentations, posters of any kind and so much more.
Now with the drag and drop option, businesses, marketing professionals, and students can effortlessly create their own visuals. Premium features such as different icons, fonts, stock photos, and others are provided free of charge as well.
Templates, brand kits, and background removers are offered in the pro version. The soft is a combination of web and mobile applications, making it easy for anyone non-designer and professional graphic designer to create stunning visuals in a matter of minutes.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Best For | Social media graphics, presentations, marketing materials |
| Platform | Web-based, Windows, macOS, Mobile (iOS, Android) |
| Pricing | Free & Pro version (subscription-based) |
| File Support | PNG, JPEG, PDF, SVG, MP4, GIF |
| Key Tools | Drag-and-drop editor, templates, stock images, text effects |
| Best Features | AI-powered design suggestions, branding tools, background remover |
| Collaboration | Real-time multi-user editing & team collaboration |
| Ease of Use | Very easy (beginner-friendly, no design skills required) |
| Ideal Users | Marketers, content creators, businesses, educators |
| Alternatives | VistaCreate, Adobe Express, Piktochart, Visme |
14.Piktochart
Piktochart is a web-based tool that enables the creation of infographics, presentations, and charts and reports. The software is particularly designed to aid businesses, marketers, and educators with its pre-defined stunning easy-to-visualize data templates.
Users can design maps, charts, and graphics without having advanced design skills due to an easy to use drag-and-drop interface. Piktochart is useful for print and digital documents because it supports many different export formats such as PDF and PNG.
The Pro paid version unlocks access to more customization tools whereas the free plan comes with limited features. Piktochart is focused on enabling data storytellers by allowing them to easily create nice looking visual content for social media, blogs, reports, and more.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Best For | Infographics, reports, presentations, marketing visuals |
| Platform | Web-based |
| Pricing | Free & Pro version (subscription-based) |
| File Support | PNG, JPEG, PDF, PPT |
| Key Tools | Drag-and-drop editor, charts, icons, templates |
| Best Features | Data visualization, infographic templates, branding tools |
| Collaboration | Real-time team collaboration |
| Ease of Use | Very easy (beginner-friendly, no design skills needed) |
| Ideal Users | Marketers, educators, businesses, nonprofits |
| Alternatives | Canva, Visme, Easel.ly, Venngage |
15.Easel.ly
Easelly is an infographic making software specially built to aid users in effective and quick data visualization. Through the use of a library of templates, users can build infographics that are appealing to the eye without needing advanced design skills. Users can easily add text, icons and charts as it supports drag-and-drop functionality.
Ease.ly is popular among students, educators, and businesses for social media content, reports, and presentations. While the free version gives access to basic features, the Pro version comes with additional design assets and templates. If you’re looking for an easy to use infographic maker, Easel.ly should be your go to for effective visual narration.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Best For | Infographics, data visualization, reports |
| Platform | Web-based |
| Pricing | Free & Pro version (subscription-based) |
| File Support | PNG, JPEG, PDF |
| Key Tools | Drag-and-drop editor, pre-made templates, icons |
| Best Features | Simple infographic creation, customizable templates |
| Collaboration | No real-time multi-user editing |
| Ease of Use | Very easy (designed for non-designers) |
| Ideal Users | Educators, students, marketers, business professionals |
| Alternatives | Piktochart, Visme, Canva, Venngage |
16.Visme
Visme is an all in one design tool for presentations, infographics, reports, and social media graphics as they have a distinct library of templates, stock photos, and animations rendering content creation effortless.
Visme allows its users to add videos, animations, and hyperlinks to the different elements of their designs, setting it apart from other design tools. It also enables brand identity maintainance and team collaboration with customizable brand kits.
Content creators, educators, and businesses can use it in its free or premium version. It is a go-to platform for making professional presentations and for telling stories visuals because of its simple interface and robust features.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Best For | Infographics, presentations, marketing materials, social media graphics |
| Platform | Web-based |
| Pricing | Free & Pro version (subscription-based) |
| File Support | PNG, JPEG, PDF, PPT, MP4, GIF |
| Key Tools | Drag-and-drop editor, data visualization, animation tools |
| Best Features | Interactive content, infographic templates, branding features |
| Collaboration | Real-time team collaboration, commenting, sharing options |
| Ease of Use | Easy to moderate (more advanced than Canva) |
| Ideal Users | Marketers, educators, business professionals, content creators |
| Alternatives | Canva, Piktochart, Easel.ly, Adobe Express |
17.VistaCreate
VistaCreate is a design tool like canva dot com, with different templates for presentation, social media, and marketing for a range of users. It boasts an easy to use drag and drop feature that enables even non designers to create stunning designs.
VistaCreate also incorporates animated templates, a powerful stock photo library, and the ability to change logos so that the designs fit the users’ brands. It allows the user to export in various formats, making it user friendly for social media marketers and content creators.
It is low cost compared to other traditional design applications, working great for people looking to create professional content easily and quickly which most likely is the reason VistaCreate offers free and Pro plans.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Best For | Social media graphics, marketing materials, presentations |
| Platform | Web-based, Windows, macOS, Mobile (iOS, Android) |
| Pricing | Free & Pro version (subscription-based) |
| File Support | PNG, JPEG, PDF, MP4, GIF |
| Key Tools | Drag-and-drop editor, templates, animation tools |
| Best Features | Stock images, branding kits, AI-powered design suggestions |
| Collaboration | No real-time multi-user editing |
| Ease of Use | Very easy (beginner-friendly) |
| Ideal Users | Marketers, content creators, small businesses, educators |
| Alternatives | Canva, Visme, Piktochart, Adobe Express |
18.PicMonkey
PicMonkey is a less complex and more user-friendly photo editing tool with features that let it be easily used for creating social media images, infographics, branding materials, or marketing campaigns. Along with advanced retouching of photos, it also offers the use of customizable templates and many graphic design instruments such as different forms of texts, overlays, and filters.
PicMonkey offers a user-friendly interface, which is great for newcomers and provides robust features for advanced users. With the subscription model, premium options are available, such as cloud storage and brand kits. As a mobile application and web-based tool, PicMonkey is perfect for content creators and businesses who want to improve their digital presence with stunning graphics.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Best For | Photo editing, social media graphics, branding materials |
| Platform | Web-based, Windows, macOS, Mobile (iOS, Android) |
| Pricing | Subscription-based (no free plan) |
| File Support | PNG, JPEG, PDF |
| Key Tools | Photo retouching, filters, text tools, templates |
| Best Features | AI-powered touch-up tools, background remover, cloud storage |
| Collaboration | No real-time multi-user editing |
| Ease of Use | Very easy (designed for non-designers) |
| Ideal Users | Social media managers, marketers, small businesses, bloggers |
| Alternatives | Canva, VistaCreate, Adobe Express, Pixlr |
Conclusion
In summary, the top graphic design software available allows for everything from photo and vector editing to infographic generation. While Canva, Visme, and VistaCreate aid in content effortless creation, Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator serve more advanced purposes.
GIMP and Inkscape are great replacements, despite being free. The decision comes down to what one needs, their budget, and their skillset.
