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Adobe Illustrator

Graphic design software for vector-based images and animations that are compatible with print and web media formats

9.2

4574 Votes

Adobe Illustrator is a graphic design program that specializes in creating vectors. Vectors are images that can be infinitely scaled without loss of quality. It also comes with many tools, has an intuitive interface and offers templates for a faster workflow.

Main Features

Adobe Illustrator is a premier graphic design program that artists use to create graphics. Newcomers might struggle to see the difference between Illustrator and Photoshop at first glance. They both allow you to draw, color, work on photos and have many similar tools.

The major difference is that Illustrator is geared towards making vectors. Vectors can be made smaller or larger without any loss of quality. This is most easily done by creating a drawing with points. Illustrator remembers how the points coordinate and will use this information to scale the image as needed. Illustrator has many tools to make this process even easier so that you can create advanced drawings.

Brushes

Like most other graphic design programs, Illustrators comes with a wide array of brushes. Each brush comes in a different size and style. For example, one can look like spray paint while another might be a flat color. This gives you options for coloring your illustrations.

Not only that, but there are thousands of brushes that you can add to Illustrator. You can find these by looking online. Some are free while others must be paid for. In either case, you can install the brushes in a matter of seconds. This makes Illustrator highly versatile.

Layers and Filters

One of the best things about modern graphic design programs is the ability to use layers. You can have the actual drawing on one layer, another layer can be used for coloring and another can be used for effects.

This is incredibly useful as it ensures that mistakes are minimized. If an effect goes terrible wrong, then you can undo it. In the worst-case scenario, you can simply erase the layer rather than the whole drawing. Layers also make it easier to create drawing variations.

You also gain access to many filters. These can be used to give your drawing a different look. For example, a lens flare filter or a texture filter can overlay effects on your drawing. There are dozens to choose from and more can be loaded into the program.

Intuitive Interface

Compared to similar professional graphic design programs, Illustrator is very intuitive. It's easy to find what you want, and it's easy to make adjustments as needed. Whether you need to mix colors, alter filters, add layers or do anything else, it is much easier than with other vector drawing programs.

At the same time, this program is not made for beginners. You are expected to have a grasp on graphic design tools before using this program. While it's fairly easy to learn, beginners might find Illustrator overwhelming.

Pros

  • Allows you to create vectors with ease.
  • Has a tremendous number of brushes, filters, effects and more.
  • Intuitive interface is simple compared to similar programs.

Cons

  • While it is intuitive, this program was not built for beginners.
Company
Adobe
HQ Location
San Jose, CA
Ownership
NASDAQ:ADBE
Total Revenue (USD mm)
$12,868
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