12 Must Have Tools for Graphic Designers in 2025

Graphic design has always been a creative and constantly changing field but in 2025 the speed of change is faster than ever before. To create outstanding designs, professionals must equip themselves with the best tools available. This guide highlights the 12 must have tools for graphic designers offering insights into their benefits, features and practical applications. Whether you are an experienced designer or just starting your journey, these tools will enhance your workflow and creativity.

1. Adobe Creative Cloud Suite

No list of graphic design tools is complete without mentioning Adobe Creative Cloud. This comprehensive suite includes Photoshop for photo editing, Illustrator for vector graphics and InDesign for layouts. In 2025, Adobe continues to lead the market with AI-driven features that simplify tasks and inspire creativity.

Key Features:

• Content-aware fill and removal.
• Vector tracing tools.
• Seamless integration between apps.

For example, a freelance designer can use Photoshop to retouch images, Illustrator to create a logo and InDesign to design a magazine layout—all within one ecosystem. It’s no wonder Adobe Creative Cloud is considered one of the must have tools for graphic designers.

2. Figma

Figma is a favorite among UI/UX designers. This web based tool has made collaborative design easier by allowing teams to work together in real time. Its easy access and cloud platform make it a must have for remote work.

Benefits:

• Live collaboration capabilities.
• Cross platform functionality.
• Integrated prototyping tools.

Imagine a product design team working across countries and refining app interfaces in real time. Figma’s efficiency makes it one of the must have tools for graphic designers in 2025.

3. Canva Pro

Canva Pro is a user friendly platform ideal for creating social media graphics, presentations and marketing materials. Its extensive library of templates, stock photos, and design elements makes it a time-saving tool for professionals.

Why Designers Love It:

• Intuitive drag-and-drop interface.
• Cost effective subscription plans.
• Ready to use design templates.

For example: a social media manager can quickly create eye catching posts and stories that align with brand guidelines using Canva Pro. Its simplicity and versatility make it an essential addition to any designer’s toolkit.

4. Procreate

Procreate is a must have for digital illustrators. This iPad-only app provides excellent drawing and painting tools that feel like traditional art. It’s easy to use interface and customization features make it popular for artists.

Features:

• Pressure sensitive brushes.
• Time lapse video recording of artwork.
• Wide variety of pre installed tools.

For example: an illustrator can create detailed designs for book covers or murals directly on their iPad making Procreate a go to for illustrators.

5. Affinity Designer

For those seeking a cost-effective alternative to Adobe Illustrator, Affinity Designer is an excellent choice. Known for its powerful vector editing capabilities, it’s perfect for creating logos, branding materials and detailed illustrations.

Highlights:

• One time purchase model—no subscriptions.
• Smooth performance on desktop and iPad.
• Easy switching between vector and raster workspaces.

Freelancers who need high quality design software without ongoing costs often choose Affinity Designer making it a must have tools for graphic designers.

6. CorelDRAW Graphics Suite

CorelDRAW has been a staple for vector illustration and layout design for decades. In 2025, it continues to impress with advanced typography tools and AI-assisted enhancements.

Unique Advantages:

• Intuitive interface for beginners and experts.
• Tools for precision layout and design.
• Extensive file format support.

For example, a signage designer can use CorelDRAW to create high-resolution, scalable designs that are ready for print and display.

7. Sketch

Sketch is specifically tailored for UI/UX design. It excels in wireframing, prototyping and creating responsive designs for web and mobile applications.

Why It’s Popular:

• Easy to use vector editing tools.
• Integration with plugins for extended functionality.
• Collaboration features for team projects.

A startup’s design team can use Sketch to craft easy to use app interfaces ensuring a seamless user experience. Its focus on UI/UX makes it one of the must have tools for graphic designers specializing in digital products.

8. Blender

Blender is an open source 3D design software that has gained huge popularity among graphic designers exploring animation, rendering and 3D modeling. Its powerful features are unmatched, especially since it’s free.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive 3D creation tools.
• Free and open-source model.
• Active community for tutorials and support.

Motion graphic artists can use Blender to create stunning 3D animations for advertisements or visual effects, making it an essential tool in 2025.

9. Wacom Tablets

Wacom tablets are indispensable hardware for graphic designers, especially those who specialize in illustration and photo editing. These tablets provide precision and control replicating the experience of using traditional drawing tools.

Key Features:

• Pressure sensitive pens.
• Wide range of tablet sizes.
• Compatibility with major design software.

For example: a fashion designer can draw detailed patterns directly into their design software boosting both creativity and efficiency.

10. Pantone Color Manager

Color accuracy is key for branding and print projects. Pantone Color Manager ensures colors are consistent across screens and prints making it an essential tool for professional designers.

Why It is Important:

• Access to Pantone color libraries.
• Tools for creating custom palettes.
• Integration with Adobe products.

Branding agencies can use Pantone Color Manager to make sure their designs stay consistent across different mediums making it a must have tools for graphic designers.

11. Envato Elements

Envato Elements offers a massive library of design resources including templates, fonts, stock photos and videos. It’s a one stop shop for creative professionals working on diverse projects.

Advantages:

• Unlimited downloads with a subscription.
• Regular updates to resource libraries.
• Suitable for a wide variety of design needs.

For instance, a freelancer juggling multiple client projects can use Envato Elements to access high-quality assets without incurring extra costs.

12. Trello or Asana

Project management tools like Trello and Asana are vital for graphic designers managing multiple projects. These platforms help designers stay organized, meet deadlines and collaborate effectively.

Key Features:

• Customizable task boards.
• Integration with tools like Figma and Slack.
• Mobile and desktop access.

For example, a design studio can use Trello to assign tasks, track progress and ensure timely project delivery.

If you are looking for professional graphic design services, our team can help bring your creative vision to life. Explore our graphic designing services.

Trends in Graphic Design Tools

Along with these tools, emerging trends like AI assisted design and virtual reality are shaping the future of graphic design. Tools like Runway ML and Adobe Aero are becoming popular for making complex tasks easier and creating immersive experiences. Staying up to date with these innovations can give graphic designers a competitive advantage in a fast changing industry.

Conclusion

Graphic designers in 2025 have a wide range of tools available to boost creativity and improve workflows. From popular software like Adobe Creative Cloud to specialized tools like Figma and Procreate, these 12 must have tools for graphic designers are essential in today’s competitive environment.

Investing in the right designing tools can make all the difference, whether you are creating a brand identity, developing a user interface or creating awesome illustrations. By equipping yourself with these essentials, you’re not just keeping up with industry standards—you’re setting new ones.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the must have tools for graphic designers in 2025?

The must have tools for graphic designers in 2025 include Adobe Creative Cloud, Figma, Canva Pro, Procreate, Affinity Designer, and others. These tools enhance creativity and streamline design workflows.

2. Why is Adobe Creative Cloud considered essential for graphic designers?

Adobe Creative Cloud is a comprehensive suite offering tools like Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, making it versatile for various design tasks, from photo editing to layout design.

3. How does Figma benefit graphic designers?

Figma is a web-based tool that supports real-time collaboration, making it ideal for UI/UX design teams working remotely. It also integrates prototyping features for interactive designs.

4. Is Canva Pro suitable for professional graphic designers?

Yes, Canva Pro is a user-friendly tool with extensive templates, stock elements, and a drag-and-drop interface, making it a quick and effective choice for social media graphics and marketing materials.

5. Are free tools like Blender effective for graphic design?

Blender is an open-source 3D design software that is highly effective for animation, rendering, and modeling. Its advanced features and free access make it a valuable tool for motion graphic artists.