You could take the time to customize an Illustrator layout that works the same way, but the default options in AD are much clearer. Not only that, but the default styling for handles and anchor points is much easier to work with than Illustrator’s. AD includes a ‘Pixel’ persona, which allows you to instantly switch back and forth between a vector underlay and a pixel-based overlay for advanced texturing. Like the other Affinity programs, AD uses ‘Personas’ to separate feature areas, which helps keep down the clutter when you’re trying to get work done.

One of my favorite things about Affinity Designer is the simplicity of its interface. As one of Serif’s oldest programs, it’s had the longest time to mature. It was built from the ground up with modern computing power in mind. Serif has been making quite a name for itself with the ‘Affinity’ series of programs Affinity Designer is the one that started it all.

Procedural shape generation in Affinity Designer Affinity DesignerĪvailable for Windows, macOS, and iPad – $69.99 one-time purchase Unfortunately for those of you on a tight budget, it’s impossible to buy CorelDRAW as a standalone you have to purchase the whole bundle.

To sweeten the deal, Corel includes several other programs for graphics professionals such as PHOTO-PAINT and AfterShot Pro. While both the subscription and purchase prices might be eye-popping at first, they’re fairly standard for a professional-level graphics program. There is some basic page layout functionality available, though this aspect doesn’t feel quite as well-developed as its vector illustration tools. Of course, CorelDRAW also provides all the vector drawing tools you’ll ever need, from the standard pen tool to more complex tracing features. It even includes some uniquely impressive features like the LiveSketch tool and collaborative work built right into the program. CorelDRAW is one of the most feature-rich alternatives to Adobe Illustrator for professional users-after all, it’s been around for almost as long.

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