Cross Platform Graphics Applications You Can Use Today

from: https://flow.movie/

Do you like making graphics?

Lately I’ve been talking quite a bit about Linux and have not really spoken too much about software alternatives that are also cross platform, for Windows and Mac. More specifically, for this installment, we are going to look at graphics applications that rival applications like Adobe Photoshop.

Bear in mind, I have no particular preference on what people want to use for graphics applications. Many times I recommend people try the “free” alternatives first to familiarize yourself with the nomenclature as well as the tools provided for these graphics applications. While these tools can vary, more often than not, using the “free” alternatives can translate well to understanding how to use other tools in the same category. To name a few concepts: RGB, hex code, layering, alpha channels/chroma key, maps, etc… You get the idea.

This will in no way be an exhaustive list. There are plenty of choices and more are continuously being created. The curated list I provide are actually tools that I do use. 

The list of applications are divided into web based that are applications that run in the browser, and the other are native applications that run on your computer. You will more than likely be familiar with many of these on the list (not sponsored btw).

WEB BASED

CANVA really needs no introduction, as most people are already familiar with this service. It is well organized with a staggering number of templates as well as AI integration when needed. What makes it so effective is it’s low barrier of entry, with an easy user interface (UI), making it accessible for beginners and advanced graphic designers. The free tier provides an extensive amount of tools to just get up and start creating. (As of writing this blog, CANVA has acquired Affinity Studio a native app(s) for Windows, Mac, and Linux. It is made available for free as a bundle with an optional paid AI version.)

GOOGLE DRAW people might not know that this web application exists within the Google Workspace Suite both for the free and paid tier. While not as extensive as canva as far capabilities go, many of the basic tools are there to get started with making graphics. One of the key features, is being able to publish a creation directly to the web.

NATIVE APPS

GIMP: GNU Image Manipulation Program has weird name, but don’t let that steer you away from this amazing graphics tool this comes real close to Photoshop. It requires having knowledge of graphic design concepts to use, otherwise, it is a great segway into the technical side of graphic design. I highly reccommend it!

INKSCAPE is a vector imaging software, synonomous for creating logos. Just like GIMP: GNU Image Manipulation Program, it does require some knowledge about creating graphics, more specifically, dealing with vector graphics.

BLENDER is mostly a 3D graphics and animation tool but contains so much more. It is 3D modeling/sculpting, animation (2D,3D), video editor, physics simulation, virtual production… The list goes on. The movie Flow, that won numerous film awards, was created using Blender.

Are you familiar with this list? Do you have any that you like that you didn’t see? Let me know :)