In the realm of graphics software, Adobe typically reigns supreme. However, we were pleasantly surprised by the capabilities of CorelDRAW, which managed to captivate even the most Illustrator-centric users. CorelDRAW offers features that even Illustrator lacks, without the need for additional plug-ins or convoluted processes. Positioned primarily for the non-designer production industry and Windows-based graphic artists, CorelDRAW seamlessly combines accessibility and ease of use with professional-grade functionalities. Despite its commendable attributes, Adobe Illustrator retains its status as our Editors’ Choice winner, largely due to its seamless integration with other Creative Cloud applications.
CorelDRAW caters to vector drawing, editing, and layout, commanding a substantial following in industries such as apparel, garment, and textiles. Originally exclusive to Windows, its recent availability on macOS has broadened its user base. With Adobe Illustrator as its main competitor in the professional graphic design arena, Corel strives to level the playing field by modernizing its offerings with features like enhanced collaboration, expanded compatibility, and subscription-based extras.
The latest version introduces cloud-based collaboration, asset management, and an Adjustments inspector, among other enhancements. Below, we delve into these and other notable features.
Getting Started with CorelDRAW
Despite its name, CorelDRAW is more than just a drawing and painting application—it’s a comprehensive page-layout tool reminiscent of Adobe InDesign and Illustrator combined, with a touch of Photoshop’s functionality. The 2022 CorelDRAW Graphics Suite comprises CorelDRAW 2022 for vector illustration and multipage layout, Corel PHOTO-PAINT for image processing, and Corel Font Manager for typeface management. Additionally, CorelDRAW.app offers a browser-based version for online and iPad use, as well as collaborative file review.
CorelDRAW’s renowned user-friendly interface remains a standout feature, especially compared to the complexity of Adobe Illustrator. Setup is straightforward, whether opting for an annual subscription with extras and automatic updates, or a perpetual license without the added benefits.
Upon creating a new document, users are greeted with a clean, organized workspace and helpful hints to navigate the software. New users receive further assistance from hover-hint enabled tool icons. While the interface and tools are intuitive, there are notable exceptions, as outlined below.
CorelDRAW strives to maintain compatibility with other applications. For example, native Illustrator files can be opened, with options to import text as text or curves. However, fonts not licensed for use may require substitution or conversion to outlines. InDesign files cannot be directly opened, but corresponding PDFs can be accessed. Importing PDFs organizes pages in separate tab docks, with options for multipage views, though some graphics may not display correctly.
Given its prevalence in production environments, CorelDRAW prioritizes prepress interaction, file exchange, and output capability. Export options encompass a variety of file types, including PDF, Office formats, web, and WordPress integration, ensuring compatibility across diverse workflows.
Unique Features
CorelDRAW sets itself apart from competitors with a range of distinctive features, including customizable brushes and lines, shape blending, Boolean path operations, and advanced fill options such as texture, fountain, PostScript, and mesh (envelope). It supports various color spaces for printing and screens, including CMYK, spot, Pantone, RGB, HSB, and grayscale, and offers compatibility with plug-ins and scripts.
Among its standout features are custom QR code creation and validation, enabling seamless integration of QR codes into designs for connecting with audiences. Smart shape recognition automatically transforms freehand shapes into clean basic shapes, akin to Adobe Fresco’s functionality, streamlining the design process.
Additionally, CorelDRAW boasts a symmetry tool and curve object mirroring, ideal for creating intricate mandala art with ease. Advanced line tools, including connector, call-out, and dimensioning options, simplify the creation of flowcharts, mind maps, and callouts.
CorelDRAW includes a spiral tool for generating logarithmic and Archimedean spirals, a LiveSketch tool for converting freehand sketches into Bézier curves, and a three-point ellipse definer. It offers a range of smart-customizable common shapes and a table-making text tool for added versatility.
The software features various special effects makers, including bevel, blend, smear, repel, long shadow, and lens effects, applicable to both vector and raster images. The Impact Tool creates tapered starbursts and motion lines, customizable for different visual effects.
Notably, CorelDRAW’s Pointilizer allows for custom halftone generation using any shape, offering extensive customization options. The PhotoCocktail feature facilitates the creation of photomosaics, enhancing creativity in image composition.
Streamlined Asset Management
CorelDRAW introduces dynamic asset management through cloud-based repositories, enabling teams to create a centralized source of design assets. This approach fosters collaboration by sharing symbols across projects and teams, syncing updates in real-time.
Centralized design ecosystems support the development of super-charged design systems, akin to brand style guides, facilitating continuity across layouts and reducing file sizes. With access to the latest assets and collective feedback organized in one place, creatives can streamline collaboration and ensure consistency in design implementation.
Diverse Drawing Approaches
In the past, my experience with CorelDraw on the Mac left much to be desired compared to industry standards like Adobe Illustrator and Macromedia Freehand. However, the landscape has shifted, and CorelDraw now boasts a dedicated following alongside Illustrator enthusiasts. While some users remain loyal to one application, there’s a growing minority, myself included, who see the value in using both.
As an Illustrator user, I’m always on the lookout for hidden gems in other applications, and CorelDraw’s feature-rich offerings in its 2022 release once again impress. Therefore, I’ve chosen to join the ranks of those who benefit from utilizing both platforms.
While we confidently recommend CorelDraw, especially for newcomers seeking an accessible and cost-effective introduction to graphic design, Adobe Illustrator retains its status as the PCMag Editors’ Choice for vector graphics design.
Additional Details
Limitations in the Trial Version
- 15-day trial period
- Nag screen prompts
Key Features
Seamless Start: Whether you’re a novice or seasoned designer, CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X8 offers an intuitive experience tailored to your needs. Explore the basics with a Startup tour or dive into new features immediately, with a workspace customizable to your workflow. Access high-quality content and learning resources to enhance your projects, leveraging the power of Windows 10, multi-monitor viewing, and 4K display support.
Creative Freedom: Unleash your design prowess with CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X8’s versatile and user-friendly features. Easily discover fonts for any project with enhanced search and filtering tools. Accelerate your workflow with the improved Knife tool, enabling precise splitting of vector objects, text, and bitmaps along any path. Refine photos with the Healing Clone tool in Corel PHOTO-PAINT X8 and correct perspective distortions with the enhanced Straighten Image dialog box.
Personalized Workspace: Customize your design environment to suit your preferences with an updated interface and adjustable icon size, desktop appearance, and window borders. Organize fonts effortlessly with Corel Font Manager X8 and expand your creative toolkit with additional apps, plugins, and extensions available within the application.
Professional Output: Produce high-quality designs that leave a lasting impact across various mediums, from logos and signage to marketing materials and web graphics. CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X8 offers unmatched file format compatibility and advanced color-management tools, ensuring flexibility and precision for all projects. Join a vibrant community of CorelDRAW users to receive support and inspiration on your creative journey.
System Requirements
- Intel Core i3/5/7/9 or AMD Ryzen 3/5/7/9/Threadripper, EPYC processor
- 8 GB RAM
- 5.5 GB hard disk space for application and installation files
- OpenCL 1.2-enabled video card with 3+ GB VRAM
- Mouse, tablet, or multi-touch screen
- 1280 x 720 screen resolution at 100% (96 dpi)
- .NET FRAMEWORK 4.6
- DVD drive (required for box installation)
- Internet connection