10 Best Digital Art Software for Every Artist

Brenda Peng  Updated on  March 11, 2025

Approved by Abby Poole  

Hey there, fellow creators! If you're diving into the world of digital art, you've probably realized one thing: the right software can make or break your creative journey. Whether you're sketching your next masterpiece, animating a short film, or editing photos to perfection, the tool you choose can significantly impact your workflow, productivity, and, ultimately, your art.

But let's face it—choosing the best digital art software can feel overwhelming. With so many options out there, how do you know which one is right for you? Do you go for the industry-standard powerhouse, a budget-friendly gem, or something in between? And what about compatibility, skill level, or unique features like AI-powered tools?

That's where I come in. I'm Brenda Peng, a seasoned editor at Digiarty Software, and I've spent years exploring the ins and outs of digital art programs. From free open-source tools to premium suites, I've tested them all to help you find the perfect fit for your needs.

In this guide, we'll walk through 10 of the best digital art software options available today. Whether you're a beginner looking for something simple or a pro seeking advanced features, there's something here for everyone. Ready to find your next creative companion? Let's get started!

Key Considerations When Choosing Digital Art Software

Choosing the right digital art software can feel like picking the perfect paintbrush—there's no one-size-fits-all solution. The best tool for you depends on your unique needs, goals, and creative style. To help you make an informed decision, here are the key factors to consider before diving in:

1. Budget

Let's start with the elephant in the room: cost. Digital art software ranges from free (like Krita and GIMP) to subscription-based (like Adobe Photoshop) to one-time purchases (like Affinity Photo). If you're just starting out, free or low-cost options might be the way to go. But if you're a professional looking for advanced features, investing in a premium tool could be worth it.

2. Device Compatibility

Not all software works on every device. Before you commit, check if the program is compatible with your setup—whether it's a Windows PC, Mac, iPad, or Android tablet. For example, Procreate is iPad-exclusive, while Clip Studio Paint works on both desktop and mobile.

3. Skill Level

Are you a beginner or a seasoned pro? Some programs, like Procreate and Medibang Paint Pro, are designed with intuitive interfaces that make them perfect for newcomers. Others, like Adobe Photoshop and Corel Painter, offer advanced features that cater to experienced artists.

4. Art Style

Your creative niche matters too. Here's a quick breakdown:

• Illustration & Painting: Procreate, Corel Painter, Krita
• Comics & Manga: Clip Studio Paint, Medibang Paint Pro
• Photo Editing: Adobe Photoshop, Affinity Photo, GIMP
• 3D Modeling: Blender (often paired with Krita for concept art)
• AI-Powered Tools: Aiarty Image Enhancer, Aiarty Image Matting

5. Unique Features

Look for tools that align with your workflow. For example:

• Brush Customization: Procreate and Krita offer extensive brush libraries.
• Layer Management: Adobe Photoshop and Affinity Photo excel here.
• Animation Tools: Clip Studio Paint and Krita support frame-by-frame animation.
• AI-Powered Enhancements: Aiarty Image Enhancer and Aiarty Image Matting use AI for upscaling and background removal.

6. Community & Resources

A strong community can be a lifesaver when you're stuck or looking for inspiration. Check if the software has active forums, tutorials, or social media groups. For example, Adobe Photoshop has a vast library of tutorials on Adobe Learn, while Krita boasts a dedicated community of artists on Reddit.

7. Customer Support

Lastly, consider the level of support offered. Does the software have live chat, email support, or a comprehensive FAQ section? This can be especially important if you're new to digital art or run into technical issues.

By keeping these factors in mind, you'll be well-equipped to choose the digital art software that best fits your needs. Ready to explore the top options? Let's dive into the reviews!

10 Best Digital Art Software

1. Adobe Photoshop (Best Overall)

When it comes to digital art software, Adobe Photoshop is the undisputed heavyweight champion. It's the go-to tool for professionals in photography, illustration, and design, and for good reason. With its industry-standard features and endless customization options, Photoshop has become synonymous with digital creativity.

Take the example of a concept artist working on a video game. Photoshop's 3D tools allow them to create detailed character models and environments, while its layer system ensures every element is editable and organized.

Photoshop shines with its advanced layer masking and blending modes, making it perfect for non-destructive editing and complex compositions. The customizable brush engine is another standout feature, allowing you to create your own brushes or download third-party packs to expand your toolkit. Plus, its seamless integration with Creative Cloud means you can easily work with other Adobe apps like Lightroom and Illustrator.

To run Photoshop smoothly, you'll need at least 8GB of RAM, a 2GB GPU, and Windows 10 or macOS 10.14. It also supports tablets like Wacom, Huion, and the Apple Pencil (via the iPad app), making it versatile for both desktop and mobile users.

When it comes to file compatibility, Photoshop supports a wide range of formats, including PSD, PNG, JPEG, and TIFF, making it easy to integrate into any workflow.

Adobe offers a wealth of resources through its Adobe Learn platform, and there's no shortage of tutorials on YouTube or discussions on Reddit. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, you'll find plenty of support to help you master the software.

Photoshop is subscription-based at $20.99/month, which includes access to Adobe's Creative Cloud suite. While it's not the cheapest option, its versatility and power make it worth the investment for serious artists.

2. Aiarty Image Enhancer (Enhancing Digital Art Quality)

If you're looking for a tool that takes the hassle out of improving image quality, Aiarty Image Enhancer is a game-changer. This AI-powered software is designed to upscale and enhance images effortlessly, making it a favorite among photographers, designers, and anyone who works with visuals.

A photographer can use Aiarty Image Enhancer to breathe new life into vintage photos. The AI upscaling and noise reduction tools help restore old, faded images to their former glory, preserving memories for future generations.

One of the standout features of Aiarty Image Enhancer is its AI-based upscaling, which can transform low-resolution images into crisp, high-quality visuals. It also includes noise reduction and sharpening tools to clean up grainy or blurry photos. For those working with multiple images, the batch processing feature is a lifesaver, allowing you to enhance dozens of files in one go.

When it comes to system requirements, Aiarty Image Enhancer is lightweight and optimized for efficiency. It runs on Windows 10/11 or macOS 10.14+, with a minimum of 4GB RAM and 2GB GPU. This makes it accessible even for users with older or less powerful devices.

The software supports popular file formats like JPEG, PNG, BMP, and TIFF, ensuring compatibility with most workflows.

Aiarty Image Enhancer is backed by a helpful community, with official tutorials, user guides, and active Reddit threads for troubleshooting and tips.

Pricing is straightforward: a free trial is available to test the software, and the full version costs a one-time fee of $99.00. This makes it an affordable option for those who need reliable image enhancement without a recurring subscription.

A quick tip to get the most out of Aiarty: Use the batch processing feature to enhance multiple images in one go. It's a huge time-saver for large projects.

3. Aiarty Image Matting (Digital Art Background Remover)

For artists and designers who need precise background removal and object isolation, Aiarty Image Matting is a must-have tool. This specialized software uses AI-powered technology to make complex tasks like cutting out hair, fur, or intricate edges a breeze.

A graphic designer can use Aiarty Image Matting to create clean, professional product images for an e-commerce store. The AI-powered background removal saves hours of manual work, while the edge refinement tools ensure every image looks polished and ready for the web.

What sets Aiarty Image Matting apart is its ability to handle fine details with ease. Whether you're working on a portrait with wispy hair or a product image with intricate edges, the software's edge refinement tools ensure pixel-perfect results. It also supports transparent PNG exports, making it ideal for compositing or creating graphics for web and print.

The system requirements are modest, making it accessible to a wide range of users. It runs on Windows 10/11 or macOS 10.14+, with a minimum of 4GB RAM and 2GB GPU. Plus, it works seamlessly with Wacom tablets for manual touch-ups, giving you even more control over your edits.

File compatibility is solid, with support for formats like JPEG, PNG, BMP, TIFF, etc.

Pricing is straightforward: a free trial is available to test the software, and the full version costs a one-time fee of $75.00. This makes it an affordable option for professionals and hobbyists alike.

A quick tip to get the most out of Aiarty: After using the AI to remove the background, refine the edges manually for pixel-perfect results. It's a small step that makes a big difference.

4. Procreate (Digital Art Painter on iPad)

If you're an iPad user and haven't tried Procreate yet, you're missing out on one of the most intuitive and powerful digital art tools available. Designed exclusively for iPad, Procreate has become a favorite among illustrators, designers, and hobbyists alike, thanks to its user-friendly interface and robust feature set.

A freelance illustrator uses Procreate to create stunning artwork for children's books. The app's QuickShape feature helps them draw perfect lines and circles, while the layer system keeps their work organized and editable.

One of Procreate's biggest strengths is its brush library, which includes over 200 default brushes and the ability to create or import custom ones. The app also supports gesture-based shortcuts, making it easy to zoom, undo, or switch tools with a simple tap or swipe. Another standout feature is time-lapse recording, which lets you capture your entire creative process and share it with others.

Procreate is optimized for iPadOS, requiring iPadOS 14.1 or later and an Apple Pencil for the best experience. It's lightweight and runs smoothly even on older iPad models, making it accessible to a wide range of users.

When it comes to file compatibility, Procreate supports its native format, as well as PSD, PNG, and JPEG, making it easy to export and share your work.

The Procreate community is vibrant and supportive, with resources like the Procreate Handbook, Reddit threads, and countless Instagram tutorials to help you master the app.

Pricing is one of Procreate's biggest selling points. At just $12.99 for a one-time purchase, it's an incredibly affordable option for artists of all levels.

5. Clip Studio Paint (Comics, Webtoons, and Animations Digital Art Creator)

If you're a comic or manga artist, Clip Studio Paint is likely already on your radar—and for good reason. This versatile software is packed with features tailored specifically for storytellers, making it a top choice for creating comics, webtoons, and animations.

A webtoon creator can use Clip Studio Paint's toning tools to add depth and texture to their panels. The software's customizable brushes and layer system make it easy to experiment with different styles and techniques.

One of Clip Studio Paint's standout features is its panel templates and speech bubble tools, which streamline the comic creation process. The software also supports vector line art, allowing you to create clean, scalable artwork that's perfect for print or digital formats. For animators, the frame-by-frame animation tools are a game-changer, offering everything you need to bring your stories to life.

Clip Studio Paint is compatible with Windows 10, macOS 10.14, and even iPad, making it a flexible option for artists who work across multiple devices. The system requirements are modest, with a minimum of 4GB RAM and 1GB GPU, ensuring smooth performance even on older machines.

File compatibility is excellent, with support for formats like CLIP, PSD, PNG, and JPEG. This makes it easy to integrate Clip Studio Paint into your existing workflow.

The Clip Studio community is active and supportive, with resources like the Clip Studio Asset Library and DeviantArt forums offering plenty of inspiration and guidance.

Pricing is another big draw. You can purchase Clip Studio Paint for a one-time fee of $49.99, or opt for a subscription plan at $8.99/month. The software also frequently goes on sale, making it even more affordable for budget-conscious artists.

6. Corel Painter (Digital Art Tool for Traditional Media)

For artists who love the feel of traditional media but want the convenience of digital tools, Corel Painter is a dream come true. This software is renowned for its ability to mimic real-world art materials like oil paint, watercolor, and charcoal, making it a favorite among fine artists and illustrators.

A fine artist can use Corel Painter to transition from canvas to digital. The software's oil paint brushes and blending tools allow them to create digital artwork that looks and feels like a traditional painting.

One of Corel Painter's standout features is its realistic brush textures and paper grain effects, which give your digital artwork an authentic, handcrafted feel. The software also includes AI-powered auto-painting tools, allowing you to transform photos into paintings with just a few clicks.

Corel Painter runs on Windows 10 and macOS 10.15, with a minimum of 8GB RAM and 2GB GPU recommended for optimal performance. It's compatible with Wacom tablets and other stylus devices, making it a great choice for artists who prefer a hands-on approach.

File compatibility is solid, with support for formats like RIFF, PSD, PNG, and JPEG. This makes it easy to import and export your work across different platforms.

The Corel Painter community is active and supportive, with resources like the Corel Painter forums and YouTube tutorials offering plenty of tips and inspiration.

Pricing is on the higher end, with a one-time purchase of $429 or a subscription plan at $199/year. While it's not the most budget-friendly option, its unique features make it worth the investment for serious artists.

7. Krita (Free and Open Source Digital Art Software)

If you're looking for a powerful digital art tool that won't cost you a dime, Krita is a fantastic choice. This free, open-source software is packed with features that rival many paid options, making it a favorite among illustrators, concept artists, and hobbyists.

A hobbyist can use Krita to create fantasy art for their Dungeons & Dragons campaigns. The software's custom brushes and layer system make it easy to experiment with different styles and techniques.

One of Krita's standout features is its customizable workspace, which allows you to tailor the interface to your workflow. The software also includes animation tools, making it a great option for artists who want to dabble in frame-by-frame animation. Another big draw is its community-driven brush packs, which offer endless possibilities for creativity.

Krita runs on Windows 7+, macOS 10.12+, and Linux, with a minimum of 4GB RAM and 1GB GPU recommended for smooth performance. It's lightweight and works well on older machines, making it accessible to a wide range of users.

File compatibility is excellent, with support for formats like KRA, PSD, OpenEXR, and PNG. This makes it easy to integrate Krita into your existing workflow.

The Krita community is one of its biggest strengths. With resources like the Krita Artists forum and official documentation, you'll find plenty of support and inspiration to help you master the software.

Best of all, Krita is completely free. There are no hidden fees or subscriptions, making it an ideal choice for artists on a budget.

8. Affinity Photo (Best Alternative to Photoshop)

If you're looking for a Photoshop alternative that doesn't break the bank, Affinity Photo is a fantastic option. This powerful photo editing software offers many of the same features as Adobe's industry-standard tool but at a fraction of the cost—and with a one-time purchase instead of a subscription.

A landscape photographer can use Affinity Photo to stitch together panoramic shots of breathtaking vistas. The software's focus stacking tools help them create images with incredible depth and detail.

One of Affinity Photo's standout features is its panorama stitching and focus stacking tools, which are perfect for photographers who want to create stunning, high-detail images. The software also boasts live mesh warp, allowing you to make dynamic adjustments to your photos with ease.

Affinity Photo runs on Windows 7+ and macOS 10.9+, with a minimum of 2GB RAM and 1GB GPU recommended. It's optimized for smooth performance, even on older devices, making it accessible to a wide range of users.

File compatibility is excellent, with support for formats like AFPHOTO, PSD, PNG, and JPEG. This makes it easy to import and export your work across different platforms.

The Affinity community is active and supportive, with resources like Affinity Spotlight and Reddit threads offering plenty of tips and inspiration.

Pricing is one of Affinity Photo's biggest selling points. At just $69.99 for a one-time purchase, it's an incredibly affordable option for photographers and designers.

9. GIMP (Free and Open Source Digital Software for Editing)

If you're on the hunt for a free, versatile photo editing tool, look no further than GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program). This open-source software has been a go-to for photographers, designers, and hobbyists for years, offering a robust set of features without the price tag.

A meme creator can use GIMP's scripting tools to automate repetitive tasks, like adding text or applying filters. The software's layer system and customizable interface make it easy to create and edit images quickly.

One of GIMP's standout features is its plugin support, which allows you to extend its functionality with custom filters and tools. The software also boasts cross-platform compatibility, running smoothly on Windows, macOS, and Linux.

GIMP's system requirements are modest, with a minimum of 2GB RAM and 1GB GPU recommended. It's lightweight and works well on older machines, making it accessible to a wide range of users.

File compatibility is solid, with support for formats like XCF, PSD, PNG, and JPEG. This makes it easy to import and export your work across different platforms.

The GIMP community is one of its biggest strengths. With resources like the GIMP forums and countless YouTube tutorials, you'll find plenty of support and inspiration to help you master the software.

Best of all, GIMP is completely free. There are no hidden fees or subscriptions, making it an ideal choice for artists on a budget.

10. Medibang Paint Pro (Best Digital Art Software for Comic Artists)

If you're a comic artist or part of a creative team, Medibang Paint Pro is a tool you'll want to check out. This cloud-based software is designed with collaboration in mind, making it a top choice for creating comics, manga, and webtoons.

A comic team can use Medibang Paint Pro to collaborate on a webtoon series. The cloud-based collaboration feature allows the artist, writer, and colorist to work together seamlessly, even from different locations.

One of Medibang Paint Pro's standout features is its pre-made backgrounds and screentones, which can save you hours of work. The software also includes panel templates and speech bubble tools, streamlining the comic creation process. For teams, the cloud-based collaboration feature is a game-changer, allowing multiple artists to work on the same project in real time.

Medibang Paint Pro runs on Windows 7+ and macOS 10.9+, with a minimum of 2GB RAM and 1GB GPU recommended. It's lightweight and works well on low-end PCs, making it accessible to a wide range of users.

File compatibility is excellent, with support for formats like MDP, PSD, PNG, and JPEG. This makes it easy to import and export your work across different platforms.

The Medibang community is active and supportive, with resources like the Medibang forums and DeviantArt groups offering plenty of tips and inspiration.

Pricing is another big draw. Medibang Paint Pro is completely free, with optional premium brushes available for purchase. This makes it an ideal choice for artists on a budget.

Conclusion

Choosing the right digital art software can feel overwhelming, but hopefully, this guide has made it a little easier. Whether you're a beginner looking for something simple or a pro seeking advanced features, there's a tool out there for you. From the industry-standard Adobe Photoshop to the budget-friendly Krita, each software offers something unique to help you bring your creative vision to life.

Don't be afraid to experiment with different tools—many offer free trials or demos, so you can test them out before committing. And remember, the best software is the one that fits your workflow and inspires you to create.

So, which one will you try first?