As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
If you are a graphic designer, you might be familiar with tools like CorelDRAW and Adobe Illustrator. These two are some of the most popular graphics software available today. They are used for creating illustrations and vector-based graphics.
However, they are not limited to this, and you can add images to your designs too. This enables you to create fliers, posters, booklets and more. I have been using Adobe Illustrator for most of my work.
In this post, we will compare CorelDRAW vs Adobe Illustrator to find out the difference or which one is the best for your needs.
Difference between CorelDRAW vs. Adobe Illustrator
Below are some of the key similarities and differences between CorelDraw and Illustrator based on pricing, user interface, compatibility, learning ease, and support availability.
Both Illustrator and CorelDraw allow you to draw free-hand vector graphics, although using different tools.
| Ideal for perspective drawing, graphic design, packaging, product design, and industrial design | Best for branding, vector logos, digital illustrations, and both digital and print marketing materials |
| Supports Windows, macOS Sierra (10.12) or later, and Linux | Compatible with Windows, Mac, and iPad |
| Offers a 15-day free trial CorelDRAW Graphics Suite: $16.58/month or a one-time purchase of $399 CorelDRAW Standard: One-time purchase of $299 | Subscription-based pricing: $20.99/month for Illustrator only or $52.99/month for Creative Cloud All Apps |
| Medium – Users can get up to speed relatively quickly | Steep – Requires more time and effort to master |
| Known for its clean and simple interface, making it user-friendly | Provides a wealth of tools that are readily accessible, which can be overwhelming for beginners |
| Comprehensive support including Email, Live Chat, Phone, and a Help Center | Extensive support options including Live Chat, Phone, and an active Adobe Communities forum |
Features
Illustrator uses the pen, brush, smooth, and pencil tools, while CorelDraw combines these four tools into one tool, which is the Live Paint tool.
When it comes to features, CorelDRAW generally offers a wide range of tools and features for drawing and vector graphics. Illustrator offers more comprehensive tools that help in creating logos, icons, and illustrations.
The drawing process on both programmes can be made easier by including a drawing tablet in your drawing gear.
CorelDRAW has a simpler interface and is considered to be more user-friendly. Illustrator, on the other hand, is a little more professional and complicated in terms of the user interface. It may be intimidating for most beginners.
| Winner: Draw Both applications feature powerful features for creating vector graphic designs. If you are creating icons, logos or branding, Adobe Illustrator is the best option. If you are creating illustrations or freehand art, CorelDRAW is better. |
Compatibility and Integration
Earlier versions of CorelDRAW were not compatible with macOS. That has, however, since changed. You can now use Corel on Mac. Both applications are compatible with Windows and macOS. You can use them either on a Laptop or Drawing tablet.
Illustrator also works with iOS, which is not compatible with CorelDRAW. Similarly, Corel works with Linux, which is not compatible with Illustrator.
Illustrator works seamlessly with other software, such as Photoshop and other Adobe Creative Cloud apps. CorelDraw is a little less flexible when it comes to integrating with other apps.
| Winner: Adobe Illustrator Offers better integration with different applications and OS systems. CorelDRAW still offers good OS compatibility, for example with Linux, but it is not as good as Illustrator. |
Pricing Plans and Support
Older versions of Illustrator and CorelDraw used to offer one-off-buy options where they gave you a serial key for your software.
CorelDRAW retains this system and adds a subscription-based purchase. You can either buy one off or a regular subscription.
Illustrator is now offered on a monthly or annual subscription-only basis. You can choose from a number of subscription options for 19 dollars per month or 239.88 dollars per year.
Overall, CorelDRAW is slightly more expensive than Illustrator, with a $22 per month and $269 per year subscription charge.
Adobe Illustrator only has a 7-day free trial, while CorelDRAW allows a 15-day free trial period to test the software before you buy.
| Winner: CorelDRAW Offers a one-time purchase for long-term use. Current Illustrator versions require regular plans and upgrades that can be expensive and tiresome. |
User Interface and Learning Curve
CorelDRAW offers a simple and easy-to-follow user interface. The minimal paper-like look is perfect, especially for beginners. Despite performing the same functions, you will have difficulty locating tools if you are a regular Illustrator user. I prefer Illustrator because most tools and tabs are easy to locate and open. Winner: Illustrator
CorelDRAW vs. Adobe Illustrator
Overall, the winner depends on user preference. I prefer Adobe Illustrator, thanks to better compatibility, an easy-to-navigate user interface, and user support.
If you are a beginner, CorelDRAW is simpler to get started. In a short time you will start drawing and creating designs without spending too much. Both are ideal for creating vector graphics. However, Illustrator is better if you are branding, creating logos and more. CorelDRAW is better if you are creating illustrations.
Adobe Illustrator Pros and Cons
Pros
- Fully professional vector-based software for both print and digital production
- Works with iPad, Mac, and PC
- Not too expensive
- The new Illustrator CC allows file recovery if you have power interruptions.
- Supports many file formats, including SVG.
- Allows cloud storage
Cons
- Not free
- It is not easy to learn without assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better between CorelDRAW and Adobe Illustrator?
The choice between Illustrator and CorelDraw depends on user preference. CorelDraw is beginner-friendly and best recommended when drawing or creating illustrations. Illustrator is ideal for branding and general designing.