Graphic Design Software

Adobe Illustrator vs GIMP

Both are graphic design software. The short answer: choose Adobe Illustrator if you are logos, icons and vector illustration; choose GIMP if you are free, open-source photo editing.

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Adobe Illustrator logo Adobe IllustratorGIMP logo GIMP
Best forLogos, icons and vector illustrationFree, open-source photo editing
Free planNo (trial may exist)Yes
PricingSee providerSee provider
Built for IndiaGlobalGlobal
CategoriesGraphic Design SoftwareGraphic Design Software
Strengths
  • Industry standard for vectors
  • Print-ready output
  • Completely free
  • Powerful
Watch out for
  • Subscription
  • Learning curve
  • Interface differs from Photoshop
Visit Adobe IllustratorVisit GIMP

Which should you choose?

Adobe Illustrator: Professional vector graphics software.

GIMP: Open-source raster image editor for Windows, Mac and Linux.

The best way to decide is to run the same week of real work through both — most offer a free plan or trial — and compare how long tasks take, what your team prefers, and the total cost for your number of users including renewal pricing.

Not sure either fits? See all graphic design software compared.