The Best Graphic Design Software for Mac Computers

Graphic design is a perfect option for someone looking to improve their digital art skills. It’s also a great hobby to express yourself creatively.

But, not everyone understands the best design software for Mac computers that they’re able to use. Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Let’s take a look at everything you need to know.

1. Adobe PhotoShop

As you may expect, PhotoShop is one of the most useful graphic design programs that you can take advantage of. Not only does it allow you to seamlessly edit photos to achieve professional results, but it also comes with an intuitive interface that’s easy for beginners to learn.

Those who are often on the go will be pleased to learn that there’s a fully functional mobile application for this program. This makes it a great option for those who work remotely or have long public transportation commutes.

Additionally, PhotoShop also has plenty of functionality when exporting files. You’ll rarely run into issues while exporting a project, and you can choose whatever file type you need to work with.

For instance, you can easily export a file as a PDF to use in a professional presentation.

2. Adobe Illustrator

For those who prefer to tap into their artistic side, Adobe Illustrator is a more suitable option. But, it has one key feature that makes it amazing for graphic design— vector-based image creation.

For those unfamiliar with the term, it simply means that any image you create in Illustrator will retain its quality as you resize it. This makes it an ideal option for creating logos, as clients often want to change the size of the proposed image to their liking.

If the image becomes distorted while transitioning to the size they want, you’ll add unnecessary time to the project.

It’s also great for casual users who want to make digital drawings and improve their skills.

3. InkScape

Although Adobe products provide a large amount of utility, they do come at a price. InkScape is a free option that users can take advantage of.

And, it provides a similar level of functionality.

Like Illustrator, InkScape is a vector-based software that’s perfect for making logos or other resizable images. Its UI is also fairly similar to Illustrator’s, making it a great option for those who are already familiar with the program.

For those who are particularly tech-savvy, InkScape is also open-source. This means that anyone can access its code and manipulate it for personal objectives.

4. Adobe InDesign

Sometimes, graphic design involves a bit less art and more of a focus on the actual design of a project.

InDesign is ideal for those who want to work on brochures, magazines, etc. It’s specifically created to help users develop clean, professional-looking forms.

It also has a much smaller learning curve than other programs like PhotoShop. This makes it far more accessible to new users who are often intimidated by the nuances associated with graphic design.

Adobe InDesign also has a high level of functionality when it comes to creating web pages, as you’re easily able to export to HTML.

Unfortunately, Apple’s beta version of its Big Sur OS has caused a significant number of compatibility issues with different types of software. But, there’s a way you can revert to a previous operating system.

5. Sketch

As the name implies, this software is more geared toward drawing and creative design as opposed to form creation. But, this doesn’t mean that it can’t be used in formal applications.

The sketch comes integrated with snap-to-pixel functionality that makes it exceedingly easy to ensure that your projects are properly aligned. This factor alone makes it a great choice for mobile and web displays.

Although this software also comes at a cost, its subscription price is far lower than Adobe products. For those who are on a budget, it’s an option worth considering.

6. GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program)

This program can be thought of as a less comprehensive version of PhotoShop. But, this doesn’t mean that it doesn’t come with plenty of utility.

It also allows users to have a large amount of flexibility when customizing its interface. This allows users to retain much of their workflow from other graphic design programs.

Despite being free software, its developers also make regular updates to keep it on par with other professional programs.

Those who have machines with a low amount of RAM will also benefit from GIMP’s low CPU intensity. For instance, many users with older Mac computers have difficulty running Adobe software at an optimal speed.

7. Affinity Designer

Rounding out this list is another alternative to Adobe Illustrator.

Its main features are its capability to zoom up to 1,000,000% and intuitive grid systems that keep projects properly aligned. It also allows users to work with both pixel art and vector art simultaneously.

Unfortunately, it’s not able to export files that you can open as an Adobe Illustrator project. If you frequently work with Illustrator in other settings, this is something to keep in mind.

Choosing the Right Graphic Design Software for Mac Can Seem Difficult

But it doesn’t have to be.

With the above information about graphic design software for Mac computers in mind, you’ll be well on your way toward making the decision that’s best for you.

Want to learn more tips that can help you out in the future? Be sure to check out the rest of our blog.