1. Adobe Photoshop

What it is: The industry‑standard raster graphics editor for Windows (and other OSs). 
Key strengths:

• Powerful image‑editing, photo retouching and compositing tools (layers, masks, blending modes etc). 

• Broad file format support, integration with other Adobe apps, very mature ecosystem.
  Best for: Designers, photographers, digital artists—anyone who works primarily with images, photo manipulation or raster‑based design.
  Things to consider:

• It uses a subscription model (costly over time). 

• For purely vector work or basic graphic tasks, it may be overkill or not quite the optimal tool.

2. 

Adobe Lightroom Classic 15.0.0 Free Download

What it is: The professional vector‑graphics editor from Adobe, focused on scalable graphics, illustrations, typography. 
Key strengths:

• Best‑in‑class vector tools: creating logos, icons, illustrations, designs that scale without losing quality. 

• Works well for print, branding work, digital artwork where crisp vector is essential.
  Best for: Illustrators, logo designers, UI/icon designers, any work requiring vector precision.
  Things to consider:

• Also subscription‑based, and there is a learning curve for its full set of features.

• If your needs are simpler (e.g., basic graphic posts), a lighter tool might suffice.

3. Affinity Designer

What it is: A modern vector‑and‑raster hybrid graphics editor for Windows (and other platforms) built as an alternative to big‑name tools. 
Key strengths:

• Both vector and raster workspaces: you can switch between vector drawing and pixel editing in the same app. Canva

• One‑time purchase (or at least less burdensome pricing) compared to heavy subscriptions. 
  Best for: Designers seeking professional‑grade tools without big recurring costs; creatives who work in illustration, branding, UI/UX, and want flexibility.
  Things to consider:

• While very capable, certain niche features (especially in vector‑trace workflows) may be less mature than the leading tools. For example:

  “The only thing that sucks is … image trace … I didn’t use that feature that much anyway.” 

• File‑format exchange with clients who expect Adobe formats may be a limitation.

4. CorelDRAW Graphics Suite

What it is: A comprehensive graphics suite (vector illustration, image editing, layout) available for PC (Windows and also Mac), widely used especially in signage, print, large format work. 
Key strengths:

• Strong vector capabilities plus photo‑editing layout modules all in one suite. 

• Good alternative for professional work, with solid reviews for versatility. 
  Best for: Designers working in print, signage, large‑format, component design (logos, banners), anyone needing a full‑suite workflow on PC.
  Things to consider:

• Though professional, some users report interface quirks or less polish in certain advanced workflows. 

• If you only do simple graphics posts, it may be more complex than needed.

5. Inkscape

What it is: Free and open‑source vector graphics editor that works on Windows among other OSs. 
Key strengths:

• Great value: free to use, open‑source community support.

• Good for vector work (logos, diagrams, illustrations) especially when budget is a big constraint. 
  Best for: Beginners, students, hobbyists, designers on tight budgets who need vector tools.
  Things to consider:

• UI and workflow may feel less polished or slower compared to commercial flagship tools. 

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