Best Design Apps & Software for Professionals and Amateurs

Snigdha
By Snigdha | Last Updated on April 2nd, 2024 11:59 am

In the rapidly evolving and growing digital world, design plays a crucial role in capturing the wavering attention of your audience with the ever-shrinking attention span. Whether you're a professional graphic designer, a small business owner, or just someone who enjoys creating visually appealing content, having the right AI design tools at your disposal is essential. This blog will introduce you to a comprehensive list of the best design apps and software available to enhance your creative journey. From free design software to professional design apps, we've got you covered. Design requires the right set of tools to bring your visions to life. The design landscape is vast and diverse, offering an array of software and applications to cater to different needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for design software that can handle complex professional projects or user-friendly apps for quick and easy design tasks, there's something for everyone. However, no matter which design software you choose to work with, you will still have the option to improve its functionality through the best design software integrations using Appy Pie Connect the leading app integration and automation platform.

Let's dive in and discover the best design apps and software that can elevate your design projects to new heights.
App/Software Description Pros Cons Pricing
Appy Pie Design Easy-to-use graphic design platform - User-friendly interface - Wide range of templates - Affordable pricing options - May lack advanced features - Limited customization options VIsit the site for pricing, and choose a plan you like!
Adobe Express Mobile app for quick photo editing - User-friendly interface Integration with Adobe Creative Cloud - Available on iOS and Android - Limited features compared to desktop Adobe software - Not suitable for complex design tasks Free with optional in-app purchases
Pablo by Buffer Online tool for social media graphics - Quick and straightforward design process - Integration with Buffer Ideal for social media managers - Limited to social media graphics - Not suitable for complex design projects Free with premium features available
Snappa Online graphic design tool - User-friendly interface - Extensive library of templates and stock photos - Ideal for non-designers - Limited advanced design features - May not be suitable for complex tasks Free plan available, Premium from $10/mo
VistaCreate Online graphic design platform - Versatile design capabilities - Extensive library of templates and design elements - Collaboration features - Some users may find the interface overwhelming - Premium plans required for full access to features Free plan available, Premium from $9.99/mo
Microsoft Publisher Desktop publishing software - Integration with Microsoft Office - User-friendly for those familiar with Microsoft products - Suitable for creating marketing materials - Limited to Windows operating systems - Not as feature-rich as some other design software Part of Microsoft 365 subscription plans
Adobe InDesign Professional desktop publishing software - Industry-standard software for desktop publishing - Robust typographic and layout capabilities - Integration with other Adobe Creative Cloud apps - Steeper learning curve for beginners - Requires a subscription to Adobe Creative Cloud Part of Adobe Creative Cloud subscription plans
SketchBook Drawing and painting app - Advanced drawing and painting features - Wide range of brushes and customization options - Available on desktop and mobile - May be overwhelming for beginners - Premium features require a subscription Free with premium subscription option
Canva Online Graphic Design Tool - User-friendly with a drag-and-drop interface. - A massive library of templates, photos, and illustrations. - Collaboration features for team projects. - Free plan available with essential features.
ArtRage Digital painting software - Realistic simulation of traditional art materials - Extensive brush customization options - Suitable for digital artists and illustrators - May lack some advanced graphic design features - Not ideal for non-artistic design tasks One-time purchase from $79.90
PaintTool SAI Painting software - User-friendly interface for artists - Pen pressure sensitivity for realistic strokes - Ideal for digital art and illustration - Limited to painting and illustration - May not have advanced design features One-time purchase around $50
QuarkXPress Desktop publishing software - Robust typesetting and layout tools Ideal for print design professionals - Support for digital publishing Extensive customization options - Steeper learning curve for beginners - Premium pricing compared to some other design software One-time purchase from $399
Procreate Digital painting app for iPad - Advanced digital painting capabilities - Wide range of brushes and customization options - Exclusive to iPad, offering mobility - Limited to iPad users - Not suitable for non-artistic design tasks One-time purchase for $9.99
Inkscape Free and open-source vector graphics software - Free and open-source software - Powerful vector graphic capabilities - Ideal for illustrators and designers - Availability on multiple platforms - User interface may not be as intuitive as commercial software - Some advanced features may be missing Completely free to use
Adobe Capture Mobile app for capturing and converting assets - Quick and easy conversion of real-world objects into digital assets - Integration with Adobe Creative Cloud - Ideal for designers seeking to digitize physical elements - Limited to specific tasks like capturing and converting assets - Requires an Adobe Creative Cloud subscription Free with Adobe Creative Cloud subscription
CorelDraw Professional vector graphics software - Comprehensive vector graphic capabilities - Advanced design features and customization options - Suitable for professional graphic designers - Available on Windows and Mac - May have a steeper learning curve for beginners - Premium pricing compared to some alternatives Subscription and one-time purchase options
Adobe Illustrator Industry-standard vector graphics software - Extensive vector graphic capabilities - Advanced design and illustration features - Seamless integration with other Adobe Creative Cloud apps - Ideal for professional designers and illustrators - Steeper learning curve for beginners - Requires an Adobe Creative Cloud subscription Part of Adobe Creative Cloud subscription plans
Affinity Designer Professional vector graphic design software - Advanced vector graphic capabilities - Feature-rich and user-friendly interface - A viable alternative to Adobe Illustrator - One-time purchase pricing, making it cost-effective - May lack some of the Adobe Illustrator's advanced features - Limited to Windows and Mac users One-time purchase for $49.99
DesignWizard Online graphic design tool - User-friendly design process - Wide range of templates and stock photos - Ideal for small businesses and non-designers - Limited advanced design features - May not be suitable for intricate design tasks Free plan available, Premium from $9.99/mo
Lunacy Windows-based vector graphic design software - Compatibility with Sketch files - User-friendly interface - Suitable for Windows users Free to use - Limited to Windows operating systems - May not be as feature-rich as other vector graphic software Completely free to use
Krita Free and open-source digital painting software - Free and open-source software - Advanced digital painting capabilities - Extensive brush customization options - Suitable for digital artists and illustrators - User interface may not be as intuitive as commercial software - May lack some advanced design features Completely free to use
  1. Appy Pie Design

    2. Appy Pie Design is an easy-to-use graphic design platform that allows users to create stunning graphics, logos, posters, and more with minimal effort. It offers a wide range of templates and customization options, making it a great choice for individuals and businesses seeking to create visually appealing content.

    Pros
    • User-friendly interface suitable for beginners.
    • A vast library of templates and design elements.
    • The drag-and-drop feature simplifies the design process.
    • Affordable pricing options, including a free plan.
    • Ample design app integration options
    Cons
    • May lack some advanced features for professional designers.
    • Limited customization options compared to more advanced design tools.
    PricingVisit the site for pricing, and choose a plan you like!
  2. Adobe Express

    3. Adobe Express, part of the Adobe Creative Cloud suite, is a simplified mobile app for quick and easy photo editing. It offers essential editing tools, filters, and presets, making it ideal for on-the-go editing and enhancing photos for social media or personal use.

    Pros
    • User-friendly interface for quick edits.
    • Integration with Adobe Creative Cloud for seamless workflow.
    • Available for both iOS and Android devices.
    • Free to use with optional in-app purchases.
    • Ample design app integration options
    Cons
    • Limited features compared to desktop Adobe software.
    • May not be suitable for complex graphic design tasks.
    PricingAdobe Express is free to use with optional in-app purchases for additional features and content.
  3. Pablo by Buffer

    4. Pablo by Buffer is a user-friendly online tool for creating engaging social media graphics. It provides a variety of templates, images, and fonts, making it simple to design eye-catching posts for your social media channels.

    Pros
    • Quick and straightforward design process.
    • Integration with Buffer for seamless scheduling and posting.
    • Ideal for social media managers and marketers.
    • Free to use, with premium features available.
    Cons
    • Limited to social media graphics.
    • Not suitable for complex design projects.
    PricingPablo by Buffer is free to use, with premium features available through Buffer's subscription plans.
  4. Snappa

    5. Snappa is an online graphic design tool that simplifies the design process for social media, blogs, and marketing materials. It offers a wide range of templates, images, and graphics, allowing users to create professional-looking designs quickly.

    Pros
    • User-friendly interface with drag-and-drop functionality.
    • Extensive library of templates and stock photos.
    • Ideal for non-designers and small businesses.
    • Free plan available, with affordable premium options.
    Cons
    • Limited advanced design features.
    • May not be suitable for intricate design tasks.
    PricingSnappa offers a free plan with basic features. Premium plans start at $10 per month.
  5. VistaCreate

    6. VistaCreate is an online graphic design platform that caters to a wide range of design needs. It offers a robust set of tools for creating social media graphics, presentations, posters, and more. With a vast library of templates and design elements, VistaCreate is suitable for both beginners and professionals.

    Pros
    • Versatile design capabilities for various projects.
    • Extensive library of templates, images, and icons.
    • Collaboration features for team projects.
    • Free plan available, with affordable premium options.
    Cons
    • Some users may find the interface overwhelming.
    • Premium plans are required for full access to features.
    PricingVistaCreate offers a free plan with basic features. Premium plans start at $9.99 per month.
  6. Microsoft Publisher

    7. Microsoft Publisher is a desktop publishing software that's part of the Microsoft Office suite. It's primarily used for creating marketing materials, brochures, flyers, and newsletters. With a familiar interface, it's a popular choice for businesses and organizations.

    Pros
    • Integration with Microsoft Office suite.
    • User-friendly for those familiar with Microsoft products.
    • Versatile for creating marketing materials.
    • Suitable for businesses and professionals.
    Cons
    • Limited to Windows operating systems.
    • Not as feature-rich as some other design software.
    PricingMicrosoft Publisher is available through Microsoft 365 subscription plans, starting at $69.99 per year.
  7. Adobe InDesign

    8. Adobe InDesign is a professional desktop publishing software designed for creating print and digital publications, such as magazines, books, brochures, and interactive PDFs. It offers advanced typographic and layout tools for professional designers.

    Pros
    • Industry-standard software for desktop publishing.
    • Robust typographic and layout capabilities.
    • Integration with other Adobe Creative Cloud apps.
    • Ideal for professional designers and publishers.
    Cons
    • Steeper learning curve for beginners.
    • Requires a subscription to Adobe Creative Cloud.
    PricingAdobe InDesign is available through Adobe Creative Cloud subscription plans, starting at $20.99 per month.
  8. SketchBook

    9. SketchBook by Autodesk is a professional-grade drawing and painting app suitable for both digital artists and designers. It offers an array of brushes and tools for creating digital artwork and illustrations.

    Pros
    • Advanced drawing and painting features.
    • Wide range of brushes and customization options.
    • Available for desktop and mobile devices.
    • Free to use with a premium subscription option.
    Cons
    • May be overwhelming for beginners.
    • Premium features require a subscription.
    PricingSketchBook is free to use with a premium subscription available at $85 per year.
  9. Canva

    10. Canva is a popular online graphic design tool known for its user-friendly interface and vast library of templates. It caters to various design needs, including social media graphics, presentations, and app design. Canva is accessible to both beginners and professionals.

    Pros
    • User-friendly with a drag-and-drop interface.
    • A massive library of templates, photos, and illustrations.
    • Collaboration features for team projects.
    • Free plan available with essential features.
    Cons
    • Limited advanced design capabilities compared to professional software.
    • Watermarked content on the free plan.
    PricingCanva offers a free plan, with paid options starting at $9.95/month.
  10. ArtRage

    11. ArtRage is a digital painting software that simulates traditional art mediums, such as oil paint, watercolor, and pencil. It's designed for artists who want a natural and tactile feel in their digital creations.

    Pros
    • Realistic simulation of traditional art materials.
    • Extensive brush customization options.
    • Suitable for digital artists and illustrators.
    • Available for desktop and mobile devices.
    Cons
    • May lack some advanced graphic design features.
    • Not ideal for non-artistic design tasks.
    PricingArtRage offers a one-time purchase pricing model, starting at $79.90.
  11. PaintTool SAI

    12. PaintTool SAI is a lightweight but powerful painting software popular among digital artists and illustrators. It offers a simple and intuitive interface with a focus on digital painting and illustration.

    Pros
    • User-friendly interface for artists.
    • Pen pressure sensitivity for realistic strokes.
    • Ideal for digital art and illustration.
    • Affordable one-time purchase pricing.
    Cons
    • Limited to painting and illustration.
    • May not have advanced design features.
    PricingPaintTool SAI is available for a one-time purchase of around $50.
  12. QuarkXPress

    13. QuarkXPress is a desktop publishing software known for its professional typesetting and layout capabilities. It's widely used in the publishing industry for creating magazines, newspapers, and other printed materials.

    Pros
    • Robust typesetting and layout tools.
    • Ideal for print design professionals.
    • Support for digital publishing as well.
    • Extensive customization options.
    Cons
    • Steeper learning curve for beginners.
    • Premium pricing compared to some other design software.
    PricingQuarkXPress offers perpetual license pricing, starting at $399.
  13. Procreate

    14. Procreate is a popular digital painting app designed exclusively for iPad users. It's renowned for its powerful brush engine and intuitive interface, making it a favorite among digital artists and illustrators.

    Pros
    • Advanced digital painting capabilities.
    • Wide range of brushes and customization options.
    • Exclusive to iPad, offering mobility.
    • Frequent updates with new features.
    Cons
    • Limited to iPad users.
    • Not suitable for non-artistic design tasks.
    PricingProcreate is available as a one-time purchase on the App Store for $9.99.
  14. Inkscape

    15. Inkscape is a free and open-source vector graphics software, making it an excellent alternative to commercial options like Adobe Illustrator. It's suitable for creating logos, icons, illustrations, and more.

    Pros
    • Free and open-source software.
    • Powerful vector graphic capabilities.
    • Ideal for illustrators and designers.
    • Availability on multiple platforms.
    Cons
    • User interface may not be as intuitive as commercial software.
    • Some advanced features may be missing.
    PricingInkscape is entirely free to use, making it a cost-effective option.
  15. Adobe Capture

    16. Adobe Capture is a mobile app that allows users to capture and convert photos, patterns, and shapes into vector graphics and patterns. It seamlessly integrates with other Adobe Creative Cloud apps.

    Pros
    • Quick and easy conversion of real-world objects into digital assets.
    • Integration with Adobe Creative Cloud.
    • Ideal for designers seeking to digitize physical elements.
    • Free to use with an Adobe Creative Cloud subscription.
    Cons
    • Limited to specific tasks like capturing and converting assets.
    • Requires an Adobe Creative Cloud subscription.
    PricingAdobe Capture is free to use with an Adobe Creative Cloud subscription.
  16. CorelDraw

    17. CorelDraw is a popular vector graphics software that provides professional-grade design tools for creating logos, illustrations, and marketing materials. It's favored by graphic designers and illustrators.

    Pros
    • Comprehensive vector graphic capabilities.
    • Advanced design features and customization options.
    • Suitable for professional graphic designers.
    • Available on Windows and Mac.
    Cons
    • May have a steeper learning curve for beginners.
    • Premium pricing compared to some alternatives.
    PricingCorelDraw offers subscription and one-time purchase pricing options, with a one-time purchase starting at $499.
  17. Adobe Illustrator

    18. Adobe Illustrator is the industry-standard vector graphics software used by professional graphic designers and illustrators. It offers a wide range of design and illustration tools, making it a go-to choice for intricate design tasks.

    Pros
    • Extensive vector graphic capabilities.
    • Advanced design and illustration features.
    • Seamless integration with other Adobe Creative Cloud apps.
    • Ideal for professional designers and illustrators.
    Cons
    • Steeper learning curve for beginners.
    • Requires an Adobe Creative Cloud subscription.
    PricingAdobe Illustrator is available through Adobe Creative Cloud subscription plans, starting at $20.99 per month.
  18. Affinity Designer

    19. Affinity Designer is a professional vector graphic design software that rivals Adobe Illustrator. It offers a broad spectrum of design tools for creating logos, illustrations, and complex vector graphics.

    Pros
    • Advanced vector graphic capabilities.
    • Feature-rich and user-friendly interface.
    • A viable alternative to Adobe Illustrator.
    • One-time purchase pricing, making it cost-effective.
    Cons
    • May lack some of the Adobe Illustrator's advanced features.
    • Limited to Windows and Mac users.
    PricingAffinity Designer is available for a one-time purchase of $49.99.
  19. DesignWizard

    20. DesignWizard is an online graphic design tool that focuses on creating social media graphics, presentations, and marketing materials. It offers an extensive library of templates and design elements for various projects.

    Pros
    • User-friendly design process.
    • Wide range of templates and stock photos.
    • Ideal for small businesses and non-designers.
    • Free plan available, with affordable premium options.
    Cons
    • Limited advanced design features.
    • May not be suitable for intricate design tasks.
    PricingDesignWizard offers a free plan with basic features. Premium plans start at $9.99 per month.
  20. Lunacy

    21. Lunacy is a Windows-based vector graphic design software that focuses on editing Sketch files. It's an excellent choice for designers who work with Sketch files but prefer a Windows environment.

    Pros
    • Compatibility with Sketch files.
    • User-friendly interface.
    • Suitable for Windows users.
    • Free to use.
    Cons
    • Limited to Windows operating systems.
    • May not be as feature-rich as other vector graphic software.
    PricingLunacy is free to use, making it a cost-effective option for Windows users.
  21. Krita

    22. Krita is a free and open-source digital painting software designed for artists and illustrators. It provides a wide range of brushes and advanced painting tools, making it a powerful choice for digital art creation.

    Pros
    • Free and open-source software.
    • Advanced digital painting capabilities.
    • Extensive brush customization options.
    • Suitable for digital artists and illustrators.
    Cons
    • The user interface may not be as intuitive as commercial software.
    • May lack some advanced design features.
    PricingKrita is entirely free to use, making it a cost-effective option for digital artists.

Conclusion

Your choice of design software and apps can make or break your creative process. There's a design tool out there to suit your needs, no matter what they may be. From user-friendly graphic design software options like Appy Pie Design and Pablo by Buffer to industry-standard software like Adobe Illustrator and CorelDraw, the design landscape is rich and varied.

The right design app or software for you depends on your specific requirements and skill level. Some prioritize ease of use, while others cater to professional designers who demand advanced features. Consider your budget, the nature of your projects, and your familiarity with design tools when making your choice.

Remember that design is a dynamic field, and what works for you today may change as your skills and requirements evolve. As technology continues to advance, you'll find that the best design apps and software are the ones that adapt and grow with your creative journey. Adapt the design world to your specific needs through app integrations and automation using Appy Pie Connect.

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Snigdha

Content Head at Appy Pie

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