Photopea vs Illustrator: Which is Better?
Both Photopea and Adobe Illustrator are used for graphic design, but they serve different purposes:
- Photopea is a web-based Photoshop alternative that supports raster and vector graphics but focuses on image editing and layer-based design.
- Illustrator is a vector-based design tool used for logos, illustrations, and scalable graphics.
1. Quick Comparison
| Feature | Photopea | Adobe Illustrator |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Photo editing, UI design, basic vector work | Professional vector design, logos, illustrations |
| Editing Style | Raster & vector support (Photoshop-like) | 100% Vector-based (Illustrator-like) |
| File Compatibility | PSD, AI, PNG, JPG, SVG, RAW | AI, EPS, SVG, PDF |
| Vector Support | ✅ Yes, but limited tools | ✅ Yes, industry standard |
| Layers & Masks | ✅ Yes, similar to Photoshop | ✅ Yes, but vector-based |
| Pen Tool & Paths | ✅ Yes, basic version | ✅ Yes, advanced (Bezier curves) |
| Best For | Designers, photo editors, casual vector work | Logo designers, illustrators, branding experts |
| Platform | Web-based (no installation) | Desktop (Windows, Mac) |
| Pricing | Free with ads, no premium version | Paid ($22.99/month) |
2. Detailed Feature Comparison
🎨 Photopea: Best for Raster Editing & Basic Vector Work
- Works like Photoshop with layers, masks, and blending modes.
- Supports basic vector tools (Pen Tool, Shape Tool, SVG export).
- Can open AI files, but lacks full Illustrator vector editing capabilities.
- Great for photo editing, UI design, and basic vector graphics.
✏️ Illustrator: Best for Professional Vector Design
- Fully vector-based, meaning designs are scalable without quality loss.
- Industry standard for logo design, branding, and vector illustrations.
- Advanced tools like Bezier curves, gradient mesh, and typography.
- Used by professional designers for high-quality vector work.
3. Which One Should You Choose?
✅ Choose Photopea if:
- You need Photoshop-like editing but occasionally work with vectors.
- You want a free, browser-based design tool.
- You work with PSD or AI files but don’t need advanced vector tools.
✅ Choose Illustrator if:
- You need precise vector tools for logos, branding, and illustrations.
- You require scalable graphics without pixelation.
- You’re a professional graphic designer or illustrator.
4. Final Verdict
- Photopea is best for photo editing, UI design, and basic vector graphics.
- Illustrator is best for professional vector-based design and illustrations.
If you need basic vector support + raster editing, Photopea is a free alternative.
If you need high-end vector tools for branding, logos, and scalable graphics, Illustrator is the industry leader. 🚀