It does work out a little cheaper than Illustrator but really the main reason to choose CorelDRAW over Illustrator would be if you prefer the interface and workflow. It can easily import Adobe AI and PSD files, so there are no problems with compatibility, and CorelDRAW now has a browser-based app and iPad app too, making it easier to use the program on the go. It adds in new features including dynamic asset management and a faster adjustments docker for photo editing. There's also CorelDRAW standard, which is aimed at enthusiasts rather than professionals. CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 2021 is available for a one-off payment while the new version requires a subscription. Because the interfaces and approaches are quite different, fans of each tool will argue, with equal vehemence, that theirs is the easiest to use, but there’s no real objective way of settling this.ĬorelDRAW isn't exactly a cheap Illustrator alternative, but it is more flexible in terms of how you can pay because you can get the software in several ways. Both are packed with features and both have their passionate advocates. In fact, it's hard to say whether CorelDRAW or Illustrator is the 'better' tool. First launched in 1989, CorelDRAW is an Illustrator alternative that has a big following among artists and illustrators.