Graphic design and logo design is a necessity in today’s world to keep up and get ahead of the digital game, and even the greatest graphic designers would not be able to display they’re full talents without the software needed to match their talents. The necessary software can carry tools from super easy to use, up to majorly advanced, and sometimes both are needed. Each designer is different and may prefer a different software, so with that being said, here are some of the most recommended graphic design software programs of 2020.
Affinity Design Software
Affinity is ultimately a replacement for DrawPlus X8 and has a wide range of tools to utilize in order to get tasks done. The most appealing thing with Affinity is that it is light on the pocket, coming in at $49.99 to purchase and use. Many say that Affinity is a cheaper, yet great substitute for Adobe Illustrator. Editors from beginning to advanced can operate the software in order to get things done, and it runs at a fast pace – even when building with layers – and Affinity comes with the ability to use clouds.
Pros:
runs fast
affordable
beginners can use it
cloud functionality
Cons:
doesn’t have all of Adobe Illustrator’s tools
beginners can only go so far without further learning
Inkscape Design Software
A quick look at a cost-free software, is that of Inkscape. Inkscape offers a good variety of tools but is most noted for being able to work with several curve types and the manipulating of texts. If you are looking for something that isn’t included in the original download, Inkscape comes equipped with the ability to add extension tools to take your design even further. A big downside, is that the program renders quite often when working with layers and more complex designs, which shows that while free works well enough, it often comes with its own unique price. That being said, this software is also not recommended for beginners.
Pros:
ability to interact with an online community
many tools and filters
Cons:
slow running, rendering
not for beginners
Sketch Design Software
Coming in at $59 – $99 per year (number of devices), Sketch is a great software for beginners that focuses on web, logos and interface design, but is not usually suitable for print projects. Designers using Sketch have the ability to make and display compositions that they can play live for viewing in various situations. Most designers using Sketch also mainstream Apple devices so it is convenient for those that are Apple users. Sketch is also reported to have a very friendly user interface for those devices, which is what makes it one of the best graphic design options available.
Pros:
easy to use
lower cost
Cons:
only available for Mac
not meant for print
Gravit Design Software
Gravit comes with a free and pro version, so users can choose how deep they want to delve into the software itself, and is also useful for beginners. The pro version comes in at $49 per year for those who want to pay for the software. Gravit offers local downloads for the software, while also offering a cloud to work on – although it has been said that the cloud runs minutely slower that the local file download itself. Many users are appeased with the layout, as it is something you are able to customize to your own liking.
Pros:
cloud
customization available for layout
dual download options
free option
Cons:
cloud may run slow
must buy pro for all features
Adobe is perhaps the biggest name on the market for graphic programs and is able to be used by designers, beginning and advanced. Adobe Photoshop comes with an array of tools, tricks, and in stock designs to create the most unique of works, and rings it at $9.99-$52.99 per month – depending on your preferences. While it seems a bit pricey, Adobe does offer special prices for teachers and students.
Adobe has been around for years and is used by graphic designers all over the world. They have evolved with technology and have become a powerhouse when it comes to designing logos, websites, brochures or anything else design related.
Pros:
amount off tools available
for beginners and advanced use
discounts for students
Cons:
unique interface
buggy updates
not meant for vector design
Logomyway – No Software Download and No Sign up Online Logo Maker
If you want a no download, no signup logo maker option, this website called logomyway can help with that. They have an online logo maker that allows you to make your own logo in about 10 minutes. Type in your company name into the box and hit “Next”. You will see many logo options to choose from. You can edit the logo using the editing tool. You can alter the fonts and colors of the logo design until you are satisfied. After you make your logo you can instantly download the logo files and begin to use your new logo. It’s free to use the logo generator but you will need to pay a fee to download the vector files.
If vector design is your thing and you still want to use Adobe, Adobe Illustrator will cost you the same as Adobe Photoshop. The price difference seems to be the use of the cloud feature. With so many available tools and options on Adobe illustrator, the software may take some time to get to know and is recommended for advanced users as opposed to beginners. This software is probably the most popular among logo designers for designing logos.
Pros:
many available tools
could feature
precise editing
Cons:
not for beginners
takes time to get to learn the interface
