Are you a designer looking for a good vector design software to make pieces for your clients? Vector exporting is an essential component of any graphic design. Professionals need to have a software that can handle the demands of their job while being easy enough to use that you don't lose time.
Two of the top software options for industry professionals are Adobe Illustrator and CorelDraw. These programs are both vector-based and loaded with features for graphic illustrators. But each is optimized for a different type of design work.
I've looked at the functionality and available features of each program to help you determine which is a better option for your business.
Overview of CorelDraw and Adobe Illustrator
Shared Features
Unique CorelDraw Features
Unique Adobe Illustrator Features
Ease of Use
CorelDraw
CorelDraw has one of the easiest interfaces to use. It does take a little while to get used to all of the features, but there are helpful tips integrated throughout that streamline the process. The CorelDraw software can also be upgraded to the CorelDraw Graphics Suite, which has multiple other programs that allow for things like photo editing.
When you open the software, you'll be given a prompt asking you what type of document you're creating. Some of the available options include:
In addition to these and more, you can set your custom dimensions.
The software is outfitted with multiple resource options, including:
It does still have a learning curve, which means you need to have a background in design before you start using it. As such, it's best optimized for professionals rather than beginners. But it is much easier than several other software options.
Adobe Illustrator
Part of the Adobe Illustrator package are Smart Guides, which are user guides to help you best use the software. There are also online guides. video tutorials, demonstrations, and step-by-step instructions for creating different projects. Adobe gives you access to a "Get Inspired" website section that showcases other creative designs.
Winner: CorelDraw
CorelDraw is outfitted with more tutorials and helpful tips both in the software itself and online. It's made for people with little experience to pick up without a problem.
Types of Media Created
CorelDraw
CorelDraw is optimized for two-dimensional documentation. Some of the projects that you can do include:
These are just some of the things that you can do. Basically, if it can be printed, you can make it.
Adobe Illustrator
Adobe Illustrator is optimized for all forms of graphic design. Rather than being focused on document creation, it's more focused on the visual aesthetic without worrying about dimensions.
As such, you have less opportunities to shift the shape of your canvas. However, you can use the software to make:
Winner: CorelDraw for print | Adobe for digital
CorelDraw is better designed for creating printed media, while Adobe Illustrator is made for digital rendering. If an element will be displayed on a webpage, Adobe was made for it. But if it's going to be printed and distributed, you want the page design features that are part of CorelDraw.
Key Features
CorelDraw
CorelDraw's key features make it an indispensable system for creating two-dimensional graphic design elements. In addition to the usual illustration tools, the software is outfitted with:
Adobe Illustrator
The Adobe Illustrator features that set the software apart aren't based so much in the design process itself. Instead, they're about offering multiple resource libraries, presets, templates, enhancements, and export options. All of these things make using the software more convenient, but they won't necessarily improve your design.
Winner: CorelDraw
The CorelDraw software is focused more on creating the best design possible, rather than offering a giant amount of export options and images. While the competition is more convenient for graphic designers who need many formatting options, the CorelDraw focus on sketching and rendering and ease-of-use really shines.
See Full Review of - CorelDraw | Adobe Illustrator
Pros and Cons of CorelDraw
Pros
Cons
Pros and Cons of Adobe Illustrator
Pros
Cons
Final Thoughts: Which is Better?
Both of these options are industry leaders when creating vector format designs. Graphic designers prefer vector formatting because it can be resized to any size without becoming pixelated. Each of these systems will give you clear work that displays properly on any screen.
CorelDraw is the best for those who want an easy program. If you don't have a strong digital art background, you may find yourself floundering with the competition. This program, on the other hand, creates the same professional-grade designs while using learning tools and tutorial tips to help you maximize the features.
Adobe Illustrator is the best choice for hardened industry professionals who tend to take on complex designs for a multitude of different purposes. If your design won't work with traditional two-dimensional documentation, you'll probably have an easier time rendering it in Illustrator. Illustrator also has a higher degree of compatibility with third party products.
