Adobe Illustrator vs Procreate: A Practical Guide to Choosing the Right App for Your Design Needs (2023)

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 25 May 2023 12 min read

Choosing the right design app can be a bit overwhelming, especially when you're faced with two popular choices like Adobe Illustrator and Procreate. Worry not, fellow designers! This practical guide is here to help you decide which app best suits your design needs. We'll cover everything from app availability and pricing to key features and use case scenarios. So, let's dive into the world of Adobe Illustrator vs Procreate, shall we?

1. Adobe Illustrator vs Procreate: A Quick Comparison Overview

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of each app, let's start with a quick comparison overview. This will help you get a general sense of how Adobe Illustrator and Procreate differ from each other. We'll look at app availability, pricing structures, and the learning curve for new users.

App Availability on Different Platforms

Adobe Illustrator is a versatile app that's available on various platforms, including Windows, macOS, and as a lighter version called Adobe Illustrator Draw on iOS and Android. This means you can use Illustrator on both desktop and mobile devices.

On the other hand, Procreate is an iOS-exclusive app, designed specifically for iPads. This means if you don't own an iPad, you're out of luck. However, if you do have an iPad, the touch interface and Apple Pencil support make Procreate a joy to use.

Pricing Structure and Subscription Models

When it comes to pricing, there's a significant difference between Adobe Illustrator and Procreate. Adobe Illustrator uses a subscription model, with plans starting at $20.99 per month for a single app or $52.99 per month for the entire Adobe Creative Cloud suite. This can be a bit pricey, especially for freelancers or hobbyists.

Procreate, on the other hand, offers a one-time purchase price of $9.99. This makes it a more budget-friendly option, especially for those just starting out or not needing the full suite of Adobe features. However, keep in mind that Procreate is only available on iPads, so you'll need to factor in the cost of an iPad if you don't already own one.

Learning Curve for New Users

Adobe Illustrator is known for its extensive toolset and advanced features, which can be both a blessing and a curse. While it's an incredibly powerful tool for professional designers, the learning curve can be steep for new users. You might find yourself spending a significant amount of time learning the ins and outs of Illustrator before feeling comfortable with the software.

Procreate, on the other hand, is designed with a more user-friendly interface and intuitive tools. This means you can pick it up and start creating right away, making it a great option for beginners or those who prefer a more streamlined workflow. However, keep in mind that Procreate may not have all the advanced features that Adobe Illustrator offers.

2. Adobe Illustrator: Key Features and Strengths

Moving on from the overview, let's explore the key features and strengths of Adobe Illustrator. This will give you a better understanding of what sets Illustrator apart from Procreate and help you determine if it's the right fit for your design needs.

Vector Graphics and Scalability

One of the most notable features of Adobe Illustrator is its ability to create vector graphics. Unlike raster images, which are made up of pixels, vector graphics use mathematical equations to define shapes, lines, and colors. What does this mean for you? Well, it means you can scale your designs up or down without losing any quality or crispness—making Illustrator perfect for creating logos, icons, and other graphics that need to be resized frequently.

On the other hand, Procreate is primarily a raster-based app, which means that when it comes to adobe illustrator vs procreate, Illustrator takes the cake for scalable designs. So, if you anticipate needing to resize your work often, you might want to consider using Adobe Illustrator.

Advanced Tools for Professional Designers

Adobe Illustrator comes with a wide array of advanced tools and features that cater to professional designers. Some of these tools include:

Pen Tool: This versatile tool allows you to create custom shapes and paths with precision.
Gradient Mesh: With this feature, you can create complex, multi-colored gradients for a more polished and realistic look.
Type on a Path: This handy tool lets you add text along any path, giving you creative control over your typography.

These are just a few examples of the many powerful tools you'll find in Illustrator. While Procreate has its own set of intuitive tools, it may not have the same level of advanced features that Illustrator offers. So, when comparing adobe illustrator vs procreate, consider whether these advanced tools are essential for your workflow.

Integration with Adobe Creative Cloud

One major advantage of Adobe Illustrator is its seamless integration with other Adobe Creative Cloud apps, such as Photoshop and InDesign. This means you can easily share assets, collaborate with other designers, and streamline your workflow across multiple applications. For example, you could create a vector logo in Illustrator, import it into Photoshop for further editing, and then lay it out in InDesign for a print project—all without leaving the Adobe ecosystem.

While Procreate does offer some compatibility with Adobe apps through exporting options, it doesn't provide the same level of integration as working within the Creative Cloud. So if you're already using other Adobe apps or plan to in the future, Illustrator might be the better choice for you.

3. Procreate: Key Features and Strengths

Now that we've covered the key features and strengths of Adobe Illustrator, it's time to take a closer look at what Procreate has to offer. By examining the unique aspects of Procreate, you'll be better equipped to decide which app is the better fit for your needs in the Adobe Illustrator vs Procreate debate.

Raster Graphics and Intuitive Brushes

As mentioned earlier, Procreate is a raster-based app, meaning it works with pixels rather than vector shapes. While this might be a disadvantage when it comes to scalability, it does come with its own set of perks. For one, Procreate offers an extensive collection of intuitive brushes that can mimic various traditional art mediums such as watercolor, oil paint, and charcoal. These brushes make it easy for artists to achieve a more organic, hand-drawn feel in their digital work.

Furthermore, you can customize brushes or even create your own from scratch—allowing for endless possibilities and complete control over the look of your artwork. So, if you're looking to create digital paintings or illustrations with a natural, textured appearance, Procreate might be the app for you in the Adobe Illustrator vs Procreate debate.

Touch Interface and Apple Pencil Support

One of the most appealing features of Procreate is its touch interface, specifically designed for use on the iPad. This intuitive approach to digital art allows you to draw and paint directly on the screen with your fingers or an Apple Pencil—making for a more natural and immersive creative experience. The Apple Pencil, in particular, offers impressive pressure sensitivity and precise control, allowing you to create intricate details and smooth, flowing strokes with ease.

While Adobe Illustrator is available on the iPad as well, its interface is primarily optimized for desktop use, making it less intuitive for touch-based input. So, if you're looking for a more hands-on, tactile approach to digital design, Procreate might have the edge in the Adobe Illustrator vs Procreate comparison.

Offline Capabilities and Mobile Design

Another advantage of Procreate is its offline capabilities. Unlike Adobe Illustrator, which requires an internet connection for certain features and cloud-based services, Procreate allows you to work entirely offline. This means you can take your iPad anywhere and continue working on your projects without worrying about finding Wi-Fi or using up your data.

Procreate's mobile-first design also makes it an excellent choice for artists and designers who are constantly on the go or prefer a more compact, lightweight setup. In contrast, Adobe Illustrator is primarily geared towards desktop use, which can be less convenient for those who need to work in various locations or on the move. When considering Adobe Illustrator vs Procreate, keep in mind how important mobility and offline capabilities are for your workflow.

4. Adobe Illustrator vs Procreate: Use Case Scenarios

Now that we've covered the key features and strengths of both Adobe Illustrator and Procreate, let's explore some use case scenarios to help you determine which app is best suited for your specific design needs. We'll dive into various projects and situations where one app might outshine the other in the Adobe Illustrator vs Procreate battle.

Logos and Branding

When it comes to creating logos and branding materials, Adobe Illustrator is often the go-to choice for many designers. This is primarily due to its vector-based capabilities, which are ideal for creating crisp, clean designs that can be scaled up or down without losing quality. Additionally, Illustrator's advanced tools, such as the Pathfinder and Shape Builder, make it easy to combine and manipulate shapes to create unique, professional-looking logos.

On the other hand, while Procreate is a fantastic tool for digital painting and illustration, its raster-based nature can be limiting when it comes to logo design. Pixels may become visible when a Procreate-created logo is scaled up, which could result in a less polished final product. So, if you're primarily focusing on logo design and branding, Adobe Illustrator might be the winner in the Adobe Illustrator vs Procreate contest.

Digital Art and Illustration

For digital art and illustration projects, Procreate has a lot to offer. Its intuitive brushes and touch interface make it an excellent choice for artists looking to achieve a more organic, hand-drawn feel. The Apple Pencil support and pressure sensitivity can lead to impressive results, allowing for intricate details and smooth, flowing strokes. Furthermore, Procreate's offline capabilities and mobile-first design make it a great option for artists on the go or those who prefer a more compact setup.

While Adobe Illustrator can also be used for digital art and illustration, its focus on vector graphics might not be the best fit for everyone. If you're looking for a more natural, textured appearance in your artwork, Procreate might have the edge in the Adobe Illustrator vs Procreate debate for digital art and illustration projects.

Print Design and Packaging

When it comes to print design and packaging, Adobe Illustrator is often the preferred choice. Its vector-based nature ensures that your designs will remain sharp and crisp at any size, which is essential for print materials. Illustrator also offers excellent tools for creating complex layouts, such as grids and guides, making it easier to produce professional-looking print designs.

Procreate, on the other hand, might not be the best fit for print design projects due to its raster-based graphics. Scaling up a Procreate design for print could result in visible pixels and a less polished final product. So, when it comes to print design and packaging, Adobe Illustrator might have the upper hand in the Adobe Illustrator vs Procreate showdown.

With these use case scenarios in mind, it's essential to consider your specific design needs and preferences when choosing between Adobe Illustrator and Procreate. In the next section, we'll discuss the community and resources available for both apps to help you further in your decision-making process.

5. Community and Resources for Adobe Illustrator and Procreate

As you weigh the pros and cons of Adobe Illustrator vs Procreate, it's essential to consider the resources and community support available for both apps. A strong community and an abundance of resources can make learning and mastering a new tool much more enjoyable and efficient. Let's take a look at the tutorials, guides, forums, and marketplaces available for each app.

Tutorials and Guides

Adobe Illustrator has a long history, which means there's a wealth of tutorials and guides out there to help you learn the ins and outs of the software. From beginner-friendly YouTube videos to in-depth written tutorials, you'll find a wide range of resources to suit any learning style. Additionally, Adobe's own website offers a wealth of tutorials and guides, ensuring you have access to accurate and up-to-date information.

Procreate also boasts a robust collection of tutorials and guides, thanks in part to its passionate user community. You'll find resources ranging from basic brush techniques to advanced digital painting tips. Plus, the official Procreate website offers an extensive knowledge base, so you can easily find answers to common questions or explore specific features in depth.

Forums and Online Groups

When it comes to Adobe Illustrator vs Procreate, both apps have strong online communities where you can connect with fellow designers, ask questions, and share your work. Adobe Illustrator users can participate in the official Adobe Community Forums, where they can engage in discussions, ask for help, and learn from experienced users. In addition, there are numerous Facebook groups, Reddit forums, and other online communities dedicated to Illustrator users.

Procreate users will also find a welcoming and supportive community online. The official Procreate forums are a great place to ask questions and share your artwork. Additionally, you can join various Facebook groups, Reddit communities, and even Instagram hashtags dedicated to Procreate users, where you can connect with others, find inspiration, and learn new techniques.

Marketplace and Add-ons

One of the perks of using popular design software is the availability of third-party add-ons and resources. In the Adobe Illustrator vs Procreate debate, both apps offer a variety of additional resources to enhance your design experience. For Adobe Illustrator, you can explore the Adobe Creative Cloud Marketplace, where you'll find plugins, extensions, and other tools designed to improve your workflow and expand your creative capabilities.

Procreate users can also find a wealth of add-ons and resources to enhance their digital art experience. There are numerous online marketplaces where you can purchase Procreate brushes, textures, and other assets to help you create truly unique artwork. Plus, many Procreate artists share their custom brushes and tools for free, allowing you to experiment and find the perfect tools for your style.

As you can see, both Adobe Illustrator and Procreate offer extensive resources and supportive communities to help you learn, grow, and succeed as a designer. In the next section, we'll wrap up our Adobe Illustrator vs Procreate comparison and offer some final thoughts to help you decide which app is the right choice for your design needs.

6. Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right App for Your Design Needs

Now that we've explored the features, strengths, and resources of both Adobe Illustrator and Procreate, it's time to make a decision. Which app is the right fit for your design needs? In this final section, we'll discuss personal preferences, budget considerations, and future growth to help you make an informed choice in the Adobe Illustrator vs Procreate debate.

Personal Preferences and Workflow

When choosing between Adobe Illustrator and Procreate, it's important to think about your personal preferences and how they might affect your workflow. Do you prefer working with vector or raster graphics? Are you more comfortable using a mouse and keyboard, or do you enjoy the tactile experience of drawing directly on a tablet? Consider the way you work and the tools you enjoy using when making your decision.

For instance, if you're a fan of the Apple Pencil and the natural drawing experience it provides, Procreate might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value precision and the ability to create detailed, scalable graphics, Adobe Illustrator could be your go-to app.

Budget Considerations

Another factor to consider in the Adobe Illustrator vs Procreate debate is your budget. Adobe Illustrator operates on a subscription model, which can be more expensive in the long run. However, this also gives you access to regular updates and integration with other Adobe Creative Cloud apps. It's essential to weigh the benefits against the cost and decide if Adobe Illustrator is worth the investment for your design needs.

Procreate, on the other hand, is available for a one-time purchase, making it more budget-friendly for many users. If you're looking for a powerful design app without breaking the bank, Procreate might be the better choice. But remember, Procreate is only available for iPad, so you'll need to factor in the cost of the device as well.

Future Growth and Expanding Your Skillset

Finally, consider how each app will support your growth as a designer. Adobe Illustrator has a steeper learning curve, but it also offers more advanced tools and features that can help you expand your skillset over time. If you're looking to work on a wide range of projects and adapt to various design challenges, Illustrator's versatility may be appealing.

Procreate is generally more user-friendly and accessible, making it an excellent choice for those just starting in digital art or illustration. However, don't underestimate its power and potential. As you grow more comfortable with the app, you may find yourself discovering new techniques and pushing the boundaries of your creativity.

In conclusion, there's no one-size-fits-all answer in the Adobe Illustrator vs Procreate debate. Consider your personal preferences, budget, and future goals when choosing the right app for your design needs. Both apps offer unique strengths and resources, so the final decision ultimately comes down to what feels right for you and your creative journey. Happy designing!

If you're interested in learning more about the practical applications of Procreate and Adobe Illustrator, we highly recommend checking out Nyanza D's workshop, 'Animating with Procreate and Photoshop.' This workshop will provide you with valuable insights and hands-on experience to help you choose the right app for your design needs and make the most out of both platforms.