Graphic design has evolved rapidly in recent years, driven by technological advancements and shifting consumer preferences. As we approach 2024, it's crucial for designers to stay ahead of the curve and equip themselves with the tools and skills necessary to deliver exceptional work. In this post, we'll explore the key trends and best actions that graphic designers should consider in the coming year.
One of the most significant developments in the graphic design landscape is the increasing prominence of AI-powered tools. Designers now have access to a wide range of AI features, from advanced image manipulation capabilities to intelligent layout optimization. By understanding and leveraging these AI-powered functionalities, designers can enhance their productivity, streamline their workflows, and push the boundaries of what's possible in visual communication. Mastering the integration of AI into the design process will be a crucial skill for graphic designers in 2024.
Furthermore, the demand for immersive and visually captivating experiences continues to grow. Designers must be adept at creating 3D and hyper-surrealistic effects that captivate their audience. The ability to leverage advanced 3D rendering tools and techniques will be essential in delivering visually stunning and memorable designs. Designers who can seamlessly blend digital and physical elements, blurring the lines between reality and imagination, will be highly sought after in the coming year.
Adobe Creative Cloud: Best Comprehensive Creative Suite

Adobe Creative Cloud | Entire Collection of Adobe Creative Tools Plus 10... -- $82.99(Amazon)
Adobe Student & Teacher Edition Creative Cloud | Validation Required | 1... -- $239(Amazon)
Creative Cloud Photography Plan 20GB (Photoshop + Lightroom) | 12-month ... -- $119.88(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
Adobe Creative Cloud is selected for its comprehensive suite of creative applications that cater to a wide range of design needs. It includes industry-standard software such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, which are essential tools for professionals in graphic design, photography, video editing, and web development. The inclusion of 100GB of cloud storage facilitates easy file sharing and collaboration.
Who It's For
Adobe Creative Cloud is best suited for creative professionals, designers, photographers, and multimedia creators who require a robust set of tools for their work. It's also a good fit for students and educators in the creative field, especially with the availability of a discounted Student & Teacher Edition. However, individuals or small businesses on a tight budget may find the subscription model costly over time.
PROS | CONS |
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✅ Wide array of professional creative tools | ❌ Subscription model can be expensive long-term |
✅ Regular updates and new features like Adobe Firefly | ❌ May have a steep learning curve for beginners |
✅ Cross-device functionality and cloud storage | ❌ Requires a consistent internet connection for full functionality |
Affinity Designer: Cost-Effective Vector Design Powerhouse
Affinity Designer 2 for iPad – desktop-grade graphic design & illustrati... -- $18.49(Affinity)
The Affinity Designer Manual - Version 2: A Step-by-Step Beginner's Guide -- $39.99(Amazon)
Serif Affinity Designer Version 1 Serif CD Key -- $5.43(K4G.COM)
Affinity Designer Workbook -- $41.99(Amazon)
Affinity Designer Workbook: Learn Digital Design and Illustration with A... -- $43.69(Amazon)
The Affinity Designer Manual: A Step-by-Step Beginner's Guide -- $31.52(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
Affinity Designer stands out as a robust and cost-effective alternative to Adobe Illustrator, offering a one-time purchase fee instead of a subscription model. It provides powerful vector design tools that cater to both professionals and hobbyists looking for a comprehensive solution for their graphic design and illustration needs. With versions available for both desktop and iPad, it ensures flexibility and convenience for designers on the go.
Who It's For
This product is ideal for graphic designers, illustrators, and digital artists who are looking for a budget-friendly yet powerful vector design tool. It's especially suitable for those who prefer a one-time purchase over a subscription model. However, it might not be the best fit for users who heavily rely on community support and resources for learning and troubleshooting, as it is less known compared to Adobe products.
PROS | CONS |
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✅ One-time purchase with no subscription fees | ❌ Lesser-known, resulting in fewer resources and community support |
✅ Powerful vector design tools comparable to Adobe Illustrator | ❌ May have a steeper learning curve for users accustomed to Adobe products |
✅ Available for both desktop and iPad for designing on the go | ❌ Compatibility and file exchange with Adobe users might require extra steps |
Procreate: Best Digital Art App for iPad Users
100+ Procreate Decorative Elements (Lamp, Candles, Frames, Bulbs, Pot, B... -- $4.8(Etsy - ProcreateKit)
Beginner's Guide to Digital Painting in Procreate: How to Create Art on ... -- $20.49(Amazon)
Procreate Master Bundle -- $99(VisualTimmy)
The Beginner’s Guide to Procreate: Everything You Need to Know to Master... -- $21.59(Amazon)
Procreate Portrait Brushes, Perfect for Anime, Manga, Comic or Realistic... -- $11.95(Etsy)
The Illustrator's Guide To Procreate: How to make digital art on your iPad -- $15.29(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
Procreate is a powerful and intuitive digital illustration app that's tailor-made for the iPad, providing artists with a vast array of tools and features to bring their creative visions to life. Its compatibility with the Apple Pencil enhances the drawing experience, making it feel natural and fluid, akin to traditional media. The app's popularity among illustrators and concept artists is a testament to its capabilities and the quality of work it enables users to produce.
Who It's For
Procreate is best suited for illustrators, concept artists, and digital painters who prefer to work on the go or enjoy the portability and convenience of the iPad. It's particularly beneficial for those who are already integrated into the Apple ecosystem and can take full advantage of the seamless experience with an Apple Pencil. However, it may not be the right choice for artists who do not use iOS devices or prefer desktop software with a broader device compatibility.
PROS | CONS |
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✅ Natural drawing experience with Apple Pencil integration | ❌ Exclusively available on iOS, limiting access for non-Apple users |
✅ Wide range of brushes and tools tailored for professional artwork | ❌ May require additional purchases for specific brushes and resources |
✅ Comprehensive learning resources like guides and tutorials to improve skills | ❌ Could be overwhelming for beginners without prior digital art experience |
Wacom Cintiq Pro: Premium Drawing Experience for Professionals

Cintiq Pro 16 Creative Pen and Touch Display (2021 Version) 4K Graphic D... -- $1506.91(Amazon)
Wacom Cintiq Pro 27 Pen Display -- $3471.91(Amazon)
Wacom Cintiq Pro 17 -- $2499.95(B&H Photo-Video-Audio)
Why We Picked It
The Wacom Cintiq Pro series stands out for its unparalleled drawing experience, offering the most natural and advanced pen performance with 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity and virtually lag-free tracking. Its 4K resolution and superb color accuracy make it an exceptional choice for professionals who demand high fidelity in their digital artwork. The inclusion of multi-touch gestures, on-screen controls, and ExpressKeys further enhances productivity, allowing for a seamless and efficient workflow.
Who It's For
The Wacom Cintiq Pro is best suited for professional digital artists, illustrators, and designers who require a high-quality drawing tablet with screen for their work. It's ideal for those who prioritize precision, color accuracy, and a natural pen-to-paper feel in their digital art creation process. However, its price point and workspace requirements may not make it the best choice for hobbyists or those with limited space.
PROS | CONS |
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✅ Advanced pen performance with 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity for precise control | ❌ High price point may be prohibitive for some users |
✅ 4K resolution with 98% Adobe RGB color accuracy for exceptional visual clarity | ❌ Requires significant workspace due to its size and setup |
✅ Ergonomic design with multi-touch gestures, on-screen controls, and ExpressKeys for enhanced productivity | ❌ May have a learning curve for those new to professional-grade drawing tablets |
Clip Studio Paint: Premier Digital Art Software

CLIP STUDIO PAINT PRO - Version 2 | Perpetual License | for Microsoft Wi... -- $59.99(Amazon)
Clip Studio Paint Pro - Version 2 | Perpetual License | for Microsoft Wi... -- $44.98(Walmart - TrueShop)
CLIP STUDIO PAINT PRO - Version 1 - Perpetual License - for Microsoft Wi... -- $29.99(Amazon)
Clip Studio Paint EX - Version 2 | Perpetual License | for Microsoft Win... -- $156.98(eBay - shopsapien)
CLIP STUDIO PAINT EX - Version 2 | Perpetual License | for Microsoft Win... -- $219(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
Clip Studio Paint is celebrated for its exceptional brush engine and comprehensive features tailored for comic artists and animators. Its versatility in creating detailed illustrations, comics, manga, and animations makes it a go-to choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike. The inclusion of a perpetual license across various versions ensures users have access to powerful tools without a subscription model, providing value and convenience.
Who It's For
Ideal for comic artists, manga creators, illustrators, and animators looking for a robust platform to bring their visions to life. While beginners may face a learning curve, the depth of features and customization options make it a worthwhile investment for those committed to mastering digital art and animation.
PROS | CONS |
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✅ Advanced natural drawing brush engine for realistic art creation | ❌ Steeper learning curve for beginners compared to some other digital art software |
✅ Comprehensive animation support, including frame-by-frame animation for up to 24 frames | ❌ Price variations between versions can be confusing for new buyers |
✅ Extensive materials library and support for 3D models for reference and inspiration | ❌ Pen Tablet or stylus with pressure sensitivity recommended, which may be an additional cost for some users |
CorelDRAW Graphics Suite: Versatile Design Software Suite
CorelDRAW Graphics Suite [Lifetime] for Windows or macOS -- $13.58(Phoenix Store)
CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 2024 | Education Edition | Graphic Design Softw... -- $109(Amazon)
Corel CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 2021 - Box Pack -- $105.1(Amazon)
CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 2021 | Education Edition | Graphic Design Softw... -- $105.1(Amazon)
CorelDRAW 2021 Graphics Suite for Windows - Instant Download , Lifetime ... -- $299(Softwarehubs)
[Old Version] CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 2021 | Graphic Design Software fo... -- $549(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
CorelDRAW Graphics Suite is chosen for its comprehensive set of tools tailored for graphic design, particularly excelling in vector illustration and page layout. Its latest version includes new features like Painterly brushes and enhanced Print Merge, catering to both professional and educational environments.
Who It's For
This software suite is ideal for students, educators, and design professionals looking for a robust alternative to Adobe's offerings. It's particularly well-suited for those involved in vector-based design, layout work, and image editing who require a single package that can handle a wide range of tasks.
PROS | CONS |
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✅ Comprehensive toolset for vector illustration, layout, and photo editing | ❌ Less popular than Adobe, potentially complicating collaboration |
✅ New features like Painterly brushes and Remote fonts enhance creativity | ❌ Some learning curve for new users transitioning from other software |
✅ Extensive file format support ensures compatibility with various types of media | ❌ Internet connection required for installation and some features |
Sketch: Premier UI/UX Design Tool for macOS
Shuttle Art 124 Pcs Drawing Kit, Professional Drawing Supplies with Sket... -- $34.99(Amazon)
9 x 12 inches Sketch Book, Top Spiral Bound Sketch Pad, 1 Pack 100-Sheet... -- $11.99(Amazon)
Drawing Kit, Shuttle Art 103 Pack Drawing Pencils Set, Sketching and Dra... -- $23.49(Amazon)
DSTELIN Blank Spiral Notebook, 3-Pack, Soft Cover, Sketch Book, 100 Page... -- $7.99(Amazon)
Crayola Sketch & Color Art Set -- $37.99(Play Therapy Supply)
Mr. Pen- Drawing Pens for Artists, 8 Pack Black Multiliner/Fineliner Mic... -- $7.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
Sketch is a powerful and intuitive vector-based design tool specifically tailored for UI/UX design. Its simplicity and efficiency make it a go-to for designers looking to create clean, user-friendly interfaces for web and mobile applications. With a wide array of features designed to streamline the design process, Sketch supports rapid prototyping and collaboration, making it an essential tool for modern digital design projects.
Who It's For
Sketch is best suited for UI/UX designers and digital artists who primarily work on macOS. Its vector-based tools and simple interface cater to professionals and beginners alike, looking to design for web and mobile platforms. However, its macOS exclusivity may limit Windows users who are interested in exploring this powerful design tool.
PROS | CONS |
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✅ Vector-based tools ideal for UI/UX design | ❌ Only available for macOS |
✅ Simple, intuitive interface | ❌ May require additional plugins for extended functionality |
✅ Facilitates rapid prototyping and collaboration | ❌ Subscription-based pricing model |
iPad Pro with Apple Pencil: Best Tablet for Creative Professionals
Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch 6th Gen - Space Gray - 128GB -- $1299(Apple)
iPad (9th Generation): with A13 Bionic chip, 10.2-inch Retina Display, 6... -- $249(Amazon)
Pencil (2nd Generation): Pixel-Perfect Precision and Industry-Leading Lo... -- $114.99(Amazon)
2021 Apple 12.9-inch iPad Pro (Wi‑Fi, 256GB) - Space Gray (Renewed) -- $769.95(Amazon)
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch Wi-Fi 128GB - Silver -- $799.99(Target)
iPad Pencil 2nd Generation with Magnetic Wireless Charging, 2X Fast Char... -- $24.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The iPad Pro paired with the Apple Pencil is a formidable duo for creative professionals and enthusiasts alike. Its portability and high-performance capabilities make it an ideal tool for designers and artists who need to work on the move. The precision of the Apple Pencil enhances the functionality of the iPad Pro, allowing for detailed sketching and drawing that rivals traditional pen and paper.
Who It's For
This combination is best suited for designers, illustrators, and other creative professionals who require a powerful, portable device for their creative workflows. It's also a great choice for students and professionals who need a versatile tool for note-taking, document signing, and presentations. However, it may not be the best fit for those who rely heavily on desktop-specific design applications or those with a limited budget.
PROS | CONS |
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✅ High-resolution 12.9-inch Retina display ideal for detailed design work | ❌ Higher price point compared to other tablets |
✅ Apple Pencil offers industry-leading precision and low latency | ❌ Some desktop design applications may not be supported on iOS |
✅ Powerful performance with A13 Bionic chip and all-day battery life | ❌ Additional cost for Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard |
Adobe XD: Premier UI/UX Design Tool
Adobe XD 2023 -- $29.99(Vedrom)
Adobe XD Classroom in a Book (2020 release) -- $41.49(Amazon)
Adobe XD CC for Teams - Subscription New - 1 user -- $24.99(CDW)
Adobe XD CC Classroom in a Book (2019 Release) -- $30.99(Amazon)
Adobe XD 2024 activation key instant delivery for Windows & Mac -- $49.99(uniskeys)
Why We Picked It
Adobe XD stands out as a specialized tool for UI/UX design, offering a seamless design experience with the ability to prototype and collaborate effectively. Its integration with other Adobe products enhances its utility for designers who are already part of the Adobe ecosystem. The availability of educational resources like 'Adobe XD Classroom in a Book' makes it easier for new users to learn and master the software.
Who It's For
Adobe XD is best suited for creative professionals, web designers, and UX professionals who are focused on designing and prototyping user interfaces for websites, mobile apps, and presentations. It may not be as beneficial for those who are involved in other types of graphic design work that do not require UI/UX design features.
PROS | CONS |
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✅ Dedicated tool for UI/UX design with prototyping capabilities | ❌ Primarily useful only for UI/UX designers |
✅ Seamless integration with other Adobe Creative Cloud products | ❌ Subscription-based pricing may be a barrier for some users |
✅ Educational resources available for learning and mastering the software | ❌ May not include features necessary for other types of graphic design |
Canva: Best Design Tool for Quick and Simple Graphics

Canva For Beginners: The Ultimate Guide to Transform Your Visual Content... -- $14.99(Amazon)
Canva 2024 Guide Professional Tips & Tricks for Beginners: Mastering Dig... -- $11.97(Amazon)
Canva For Beginners Step by Step Visual guide | Canva Basics Step-by-Ste... -- $13.6(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
Canva is selected for its user-friendly interface and accessibility, making it an ideal choice for individuals or businesses looking to create quick and attractive graphics without the steep learning curve associated with more complex design software. It's web-based, which means it's accessible from anywhere and doesn't require powerful hardware to use.
Who It's For
This tool is best suited for beginners, small business owners, educators, students, and anyone who needs to create visually appealing content quickly and efficiently. It's also great for those who are not professionally trained in graphic design but want to produce professional-looking designs for social media, presentations, or marketing materials.
PROS | CONS |
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✅ Intuitive and easy-to-use interface | ❌ Not as feature-rich as professional design software |
✅ Wide range of templates and design elements | ❌ Limited customization options for advanced users |
✅ Ideal for quick social media posts and basic design tasks | ❌ May not be suitable for complex graphic design projects |
Thanks for reading! If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out. I'm here to help you find the best tools for your graphic design journey.