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Adobe Illustrator vs Adobe Photoshop
Raster-based image editing, whereas Illustrator creates scalable vector graphics.
Adobe IllustratorIndustry-standard vector graphics and illustration
Adobe PhotoshopIndustry-standard image editing and compositingWhich to pick
Pick Adobe Illustrator if you want…
- AI-enhanced vector creation
- Integrations with Gemini 2.5 or Creative Cloud (on Adobe Illustrator's list, not Adobe Photoshop's)
Pick Adobe Photoshop if you want…
- Advanced photo editing with generative AI
- Pixel-based photo editing
- Integrations with Web or Adobe Express (on Adobe Photoshop's list, not Adobe Illustrator's)
Side by side
- What it is
- Adobe Illustrator:Adobe Illustrator is a vector graphics editor that uses generative AI to turn text prompts into editable vector artwork.
- Adobe Photoshop:Adobe Photoshop is a professional image editing and compositing tool with AI-powered features.
- Best for
- Adobe Illustrator:AI-enhanced vector creation
- Adobe Photoshop:Advanced photo editing with generative AI
- Who it’s for
- Adobe Illustrator:Graphic designers, illustrators, branding teams, and anyone needing scalable vector graphics.
- Adobe Photoshop:Designers, photographers, and creatives needing advanced image manipulation.
- Pricing
- Adobe Illustrator:Paid
- Adobe Photoshop:Paid
- Works with
- Adobe Illustrator:Adobe Firefly, Gemini 2.5, Creative Cloud
- Adobe Photoshop:Web, Adobe Express, Adobe Firefly
Adobe Illustrator features
- Concept-to-Vector. Convert sketches, low-res images or text prompts into fully editable vector graphics.
- Generative Shape Fill. Apply AI-driven fills using models like GPT-4o and Gemini 2.5 to create complex patterns instantly.
- Generative Expand. Resize graphics, add bleeds and explore variations with AI-powered expansion tools.
- Turntable Preview. View designs from any angle in real time, adding motion for presentations.
- Enhanced Font Browser. Search, filter and organize fonts across Adobe apps with synced libraries.
- Improved Gradient Tool. Fine-tune color transitions with smoother gradients and preset palettes.
Adobe Photoshop features
- Generative Fill & Expand. AI-powered tools to add, expand, or remove content in images using Adobe Firefly models.
- Adjustment Layers. Clarity, Dehaze, and Grain layers for nondestructive texture and atmosphere tweaks.
- Topaz Labs Upscaling. Partner AI models upscale images with enhanced clarity and sharpness.
- Harmonize. Automatically blends people and objects into new backgrounds with matching lighting.
- Precision Selections. Improved subject selection and background removal for higher quality results.
- Mobile App. Free mobile version offers premium editing features on iOS and Android.
- Cloud Storage & Credits. 100 GB cloud storage and monthly generative AI credits included in plans.
- Adobe Express Integration. One-click templates and quick edits via Adobe Express included with Photoshop plans.
Adobe Illustrator vs Adobe Photoshop FAQ
Is Adobe Illustrator or Adobe Photoshop free?+
No, both are paid and neither has a free plan. Adobe Illustrator is paid, with a free trial. Adobe Photoshop is paid, with a free trial.
Do Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop integrate with the same tools?+
Partly. Both list Adobe Firefly. Adobe Illustrator also lists Gemini 2.5 and Creative Cloud; Adobe Photoshop also lists Web and Adobe Express.
On DevHunt
Based on each tool's website and DevHunt data. Details may change; check the official sites.