Adobe Illustrator vs Adobe Photoshop
Side-by-side from the Top 11 ranking of The 11 Best Graphic Design Software (2026). Last verified July 2, 2026.
The short answer
Adobe Photoshop ranks higher on Top 11 (#1 vs #3) for Designers and marketing teams choosing graphic design software. The professional raster standard, now with Generative Fill.
At a glance
| Adobe Illustrator | Adobe Photoshop | |
|---|---|---|
| Top 11 rank | #3 / The 11 Best Graphic Design Software (2026) | #1 / The 11 Best Graphic Design Software (2026) |
| Score (out of 9.4) | 8.9 | 9.3 |
| Best for | Best for vector illustration | Best overall for photo and raster work |
| Pricing | $$ ($22.99/mo, or $59.99/mo for full suite) | $$ ($22.99/mo, or $59.99/mo for full suite) |
| HQ | San Jose, USA | San Jose, USA |
| Founded | 1987 | 1990 |
Adobe Illustrator
The professional vector standard for logos and icons.
www.adobe.com/products/illustrator.htmlSee full entry in The 11 Best Graphic Design Software (2026)
Adobe Photoshop
The professional raster standard, now with Generative Fill.
www.adobe.com/products/photoshop.htmlSee full entry in The 11 Best Graphic Design Software (2026)
Methodology and scoring weights live at /methodology. No vendor pays for placement — see about.