This review presents the best programs for drawing on a computer for experienced artists and ordinary users. A variety of application functionality allows you to draw portraits, landscapes, comics or create design designs. A variety of tools, processing effects and modes will allow you to create a unique masterpiece.
Our selection of free drawing programs will help you get acquainted with the capabilities of each software and choose the best one.
Programs |
Russian language |
License |
Plugins |
Rating |
purpose |
| Yes | Free | Yes | 10 | amateur | |
| Yes | Free | No | 10 | amateur | |
| Yes | Free | Yes | 8 | amateur | |
| Yes | Free | Yes | 8 | amateur | |
| Yes | Free | Yes | 8 | amateur | |
| Yes | Free | Yes | 10 | amateur | |
| Yes | Free | Yes | 9 | Pro | |
| Yes | Free | Yes | 8 | amateur | |
| Yes | Free | No | 6 | amateur | |
| Yes | Free | Yes | 8 | Pro |
GIMP- free editor for creating screen and web graphics, high-quality processing and rendering with a wide range of tools and a variety of effects. The application supports all popular formats, has batch processing and work with layers. The interface is multi-window and customizable.
PicPick is a free app for taking screenshots by capturing the screen and further editing it. Using the "scroll" function, you can create a screen of web pages and documents in the form of a single picture. The software has a Russian-language interface and a wide range of editing tools.
Paint.NET is a free application that performs the functions of a graphic editor with the ability to work with layers, noise reduction, stylization and artistic processing. The main options of the program are focused on working with photo editing and vector graphics.
Inkscape is a free graphic utility for creating vector technical drawings with a set of tools for easy and fast editing. Works on an individual engine, exports and imports to various graphics formats, opens and saves in a compressed gzip format, and also has a multilingual menu.
PaintTool SAI is a free application for creating beautiful digital paintings and high-quality illustrations with a variety of tools and effects. The utility works with an unlimited number of layers, edits files of various formats and saves in its own ".sai". Implemented work with a graphics tablet.
Krita is a free program that allows you to create, process and correct raster images. graphic images using a large set of tools and filters. The cross-platform utility simulates canvas material, emulates real tools and supports photo import.
Adobe Photoshop– popular powerful utility for high-quality editing and working with photos and images using a large set of tools. The graphics editor supports various modes and layers, adds effects and text entries, creates raster graphics, while having a clear interface.
It can not only brighten up leisure, but also help in professional activities, especially if the latter is associated with graphics and creativity. It all depends on its functional features. Consider a few interesting applications, which will help to independently create a graphic masterpiece for any user.
Standard Paint
This drawing programpreinstalled on every computer With . It is not equipped with special functionality, but has a standard required set of functions. The user can make changes to images of any format. It is with this program that the user begins to get acquainted with the developments of this direction.
The main advantage of the software is that you don’t have to look for a program and install it on a PC. It is enough just to open the start menu and in the section standard programs find Paint. The software is quite simple and even a novice user will be able to resize the original image, cut out the desired part, and apply simple drawings with a pencil, brush, or using standard geometric shapes.
Graphic editor Gimp
One of the most functional programs that can work with graphic tablets. The program is very flexible in management and supports the creation of plugins that simplify the process. The simple interface is intuitive even for a novice user. The software allows you to improve color reproduction and make the image brighter. Quickly removes unwanted details from an image.
The program is useful for web designers, as it allows you to cut site layouts. As mentioned above, it is possible to draw pictures using a graphics tablet. It has its own format in which you can store texture layers and texts. Is different fast work with the clipboard, the image is inserted into the working area instantly. Allows you to archive images and opens .psd files.
The program is distributed free of charge. To download the software, just go to the developers website www.gimp.organd click on the corresponding button.
MyPaint for emerging artists
Which is perfect for artists starting their journey. Beyond incredible simple interface, understandable even to the most inexperienced user, the software will please with a dimensionless canvas. It is also worth noting a set of brushes that will allow you to create a real picture using the editor.
Application features:
- the ability to assign hotkeys for individual commands;
- a large selection of brushes and the ability to customize them;
- perfect graphics tablet support;
- supports any operating system.
You can download the program on the official website of the developers mypaint.org after specifying the operating system that is used on the PC or tablet.
SmoothDraw
With extensive possibilities for processing and creating drawings. The software is designed more for creating images, and not for editing ready-made ones. The user is offered a large number of drawing tools: pens, pens, pencils and brushes. All this is arranged in a convenient and clear interface. In addition to well-known pencils, sprays, brushes and other tools, the program also contains non-standard features such as water drops, graffiti, stars, grass and many other effects that allow you to process multi-layered images with high quality.
You can learn more about the capabilities and features of the program on the website of the developers www.smoothdraw.com.
Inkscape vector graphics
This is a free software that allows you to draw images using vector graphics, that is, directed segments. Vector graphics make it easy to resize an image while still maintaining its quality. Bitmaps do not allow this. The application has a Russian-language interface and does not cause much difficulty for the user.
You can download the graphic editor on the official website inkscape.org/ru/download . It is compatible with all operating systems just select the one you want.
PixBuilder Studio
Excellent software with not the widest, but regularly performing its functions, set of tools. You can use a brush and pencil to draw from scratch, or you can upload an image from a scanner. At the same time, the program has minimal system requirements to the computer on which it is installed and support for all known operating systems.
The software allows you to change the color and brightness, apply masks and adjust the gradient. There is a multi-stage history of changes made with the ability to undo an action or roll back to previous version. It is also possible to rotate or flip the image. Crop or use the stamp tool. Based on the declared functions, PixBuilder Studio looks like a mini-version of the well-known Photoshop.
You can download the program from here www.wnsoft.com . Here you can also specify the features and capabilities of the editor.
graffiti studio
In the style of graffiti, it will appeal to all lovers of this art direction. The user has a large number of colors and shades, several drawing options, and adjustment of the line thickness. The image of the wagon is used as a canvas, but it is possible to upload other “surfaces”. The software is perfect for creating sketches of graffiti with full visualization.
Affinity Designer software for drawing on a computer
Another graphics editor for drawing images from scratch. The user has access to a variety of color schemes, sets of brushes and palettes with the ability to customize. In addition, there is a tool for transforming various shapes, transforming or duplicating models. The user can independently customize the interface to suit their needs, while the standard offer will be intuitive for experienced users who have previously encountered similar programs. The software supports both vector and raster graphics.
The disadvantages of the application include a short test period, the application works for free only for 10 days, then you have to pay for the possibility of further use. However, the cost in comparison with analogues is quite low, so we decided to add the software to the list conditionally free apps. Another disadvantage is the lack of a Russified interface. Download the application to your computer here affinity.serif.com.
This is far from a complete list.computer drawing software. There are a lot of offers from developers, and each of them has an excellent set of features and tools. Depending on user requirements, you can select various programs that meet the requests. What drawing software do you use, and do you use similar programs at all? If so, what problems do you solve with their help? We invite everyone to the discussion.
— An interesting product, with real drawing tools (oil, roller, watercolor)
Very interesting, bitmap editor, with which you can create real artistic masterpieces, because it is here that real tools for applying paints are used: oil, palette knife, pen, watercolor, roller and many others. If you want to draw virtually like a real artist writes on his canvas, then download the ArtRage program.
ArtRage - a program for real artists
The developers have made maximum efforts to achieve realism while drawing. If in the same Adobe Photoshop you just move the tool, then here the process of applying paint is similar to reality, for example, to create a circle with a roller, the tool needs to be scrolled around the axis. There are 20 tools in the editor in total.
It is possible to connect a graphic editor, with which it is even easier to draw. However, if a person has the ability for this art, then making a beautiful drawing with a mouse is no more difficult.
To adjust the application in ArtRage, the following settings are used:
- pressure;
- softness;
- incline;
- size;
- symmetry;
- tracking etc. .
Plus, the user can create or use ready-made templates that are already configured and perform a specific function. In addition, you can choose the canvas on which you will draw, there are several types of paper, as well as some decorative backgrounds. And no one bothers you to download the background from the network and load it into the program.
ArtRage has a lot of ready-made stickers and stencils built into it. The former can be used as an addition to the work - attach the flight of birds, add spots, decorative triangles, etc. And the latter are used to facilitate labor, when, for example, you need to insert a symbol of a person, draw beads or a geometric figure, it is much easier to use a ready-made tool than to draw everything from scratch.
The layer system is very conveniently implemented - it is the same as in Corel or Photoshop, which makes it easier to work on a complex drawing, because fragments can be deleted, moved, repainted, etc. You can also work with layers - adjust transparently, fix, hide or transform.
Unfortunately, in the limited version, the result can be saved either in JPEG format, or in PTG project format. To expand the functionality you need to purchase full version, the cost of which is about 1500 rubles.
In all other respects, the ArtRage program is just perfect, with well-developed physics and many real tools, so given editor is a real find for a true artist.
In addition to the well-known graphic editor Photoshop and the standard Paint, there are various free programs for drawing on PC. And they are no worse than the same Photoshop. And some drawing games for the computer even surpass it. For example, ease of use.
What program is best for drawing? It's up to you to decide. And to simplify this task, below are the best software for drawing on PC.
The list is divided into two parts. The first one contains simple drawing programs that are suitable for amateurs and even for children 5-6 years old. And in the second - professional software in which you can draw graffiti, anime, artistic paintings with a brush (it is also suitable for graphics tablets).
Let's start with simple applications in which you can draw on your PC. They are easy to use, so they are suitable for children and beginners who want to try their hand at this business.
Once again, I remind you that all applications are free, and you can easily find them on the office. websites (links below).
Paint.NET - simple program for drawing. Despite the similar name, this is not the default Paint that comes with Windows. Although very similar.
Paint.NET has a simple and informative panel, so it's not hard to figure it out. There are also floating windows that perform additional functions. They are translucent and do not interfere with editing pictures.
The main advantages of this software:
- layer support;
- import of external files;
- support for hotkeys (standard buttons are listed in the "Window" item);
- good functionality;
- takes up little space;
- completely in Russian.
Easy to use and free, this drawing program is great for kids. For the first time, its capabilities will be more than enough.
SmoothDraw - draw from scratch
SmoothDraw - allows you to edit images or create your own, since the functionality allows this. Great for those who like to draw from scratch - after all, this is what it is intended for.
Its main advantages:
- a huge toolkit (virtual canvas rotation, anti-aliasing, various blending modes);
- painting tools: grass, raindrops, stars, graffiti;
- synchronization with tablets.
Thanks to this functionality, it is suitable even for experienced artists. The only negative is that there is no Russian language. But SmoothDraw's interface is so simple that even kids can figure it out.
By the way, this program does not need to be installed, because it is portable version. That is, you can save it to a USB flash drive, and then use it on any PC or laptop.
MyPaint - app for tablets
MyPaint is free graphics program for drawing. Designed for tablets, but can also be used on PC.
The MyPaint app is designed for beginners and hobbyists. Turns the screen of a tablet or computer into a real artistic canvas (hiding all elements). Thanks to this, you can draw whatever your heart desires.
Its main advantages:
- a large selection of brushes (+ it is possible to create your own, as well as import ready-made ones);
- support for quick commands;
- works on Windows, Linux, Mac OS.
Thus, if you are looking for children's programs for painting with a brush, try the MyPaint application. It is possible that your child will like it very much. Link to office MyPaint website.
LiveBrush - application for drawing tablets
Its main feature: the presence of only one tool - brushes.
On the one hand, it seems to be not convenient, but on the other hand, you can realize any of your ideas. Just grab a brush and go!
LiveBrush is a great drawing tool for kids. Among its main advantages are:
- vector patterns;
- a large set of brushes (you can combine them, create your own or find ready-made ones on the Internet);
- full compatibility with the tablet (the application recognizes the tilt of the brush and the pressure on the display).
In a word, this is an ideal drawing program for children. Especially if you have a graphics tablet. Link to office website .
Tux Paint - drawing for kids
If you want a simple drawing program for kids, try Tux Paint. This drawing was created for kids from 3 years old and is used in many preschool institutions for teaching computer literacy.
Its main advantages:
- bright interface that kids will love;
- cool sound effects;
- support for Windows XP, Vista, 7, Linux and Mac OS.
And there is also a funny penguin Tux - a virtual assistant who will teach you how to draw correctly. The application is completely free (link to official website).
Professional drawing programs
This completes the list of amateur and children's drawing programs. Now let's take a look at the top drawing programs designed for professionals.
Gimp is a functional application
gimp- powerful program for drawing on a computer. In terms of functionality, it almost caught up with Photoshop, but unlike it, it is free.
Main advantages:
- a huge number of effects for editing images;
- wide functionality for creating drawings from scratch;
- it is possible to create a web resource design;
- on-the-fly image archiving;
- graphics tablet support.
Inkscape - draw vector graphics
Inkscape is a vector drawing program.
The main advantage of vector graphics is the ability to resize images while maintaining quality. Therefore, this application is often used in the printing industry.
This program supports:
- various operations with contours;
- copying styles;
- gradient editing;
- working with layers.
There is also a list of hotkeys and a function to export drawings to any format. Another plus is the presence of the Russian language. Link to office Inkscape website.
Artweaver is a free alternative to Photoshop
artweaver- professional program for drawing, which in terms of functionality is in no way inferior to Photoshop. Moreover, it even surpasses it in some functions.
For example, this application can:
- record video while drawing (ideal for creating video tutorials);
- work in the "cloud" (allows you to draw an image together with other artists online);
- imitate drawing with a brush, oil, paint, pencil and other tools.
Of course, all the standard options are in place here. Therefore, if you need a free professional drawing program, go to the office. website .
PixBuilder Studio - the second analogue of Photoshop
Another professional program for drawing on a computer is PixBuilder Studio. It is also similar to Photoshop, but unlike the previous version, it supports the Russian language.
Its main functions:
- creation of raster and web graphics;
- high-quality blur and sharpening effects;
- multi-stage cancellation of operations.
Graffiti Studio - for graffiti lovers
This is a unique program for drawing graffiti. Designed more for fun, but fans of street art will definitely like it.
Its main features:
- background selection (cars, buses, walls, etc.);
- huge color palette (more than 100 colors);
- realistic options (adding smudges, using markers, etc.).
And most importantly - the drawings are obtained as real. That's what this app is all about. Link to download Graffiti Studio.
Paint Tool SAI - for anime fans
And the last one on this list is an anime drawing program. If you've always dreamed of drawing manga characters, you can try your hand at Paint Tool SAI. Although this application is also suitable for creating portraits and landscapes.
The main features of the program for drawing anime:
- many brushes;
- pencils of various softness;
- a set of useful tools (available fine tuning each of them).
It also supports working with several drawings at once and combining them through layers. Link
Krita is so advanced and functional program for drawing that you can’t believe that this is not a commercial product, but a development with an open source code. This editor has support for layers, a huge number of brushes and tools, a bunch of different filters and effects.
Krita can be used to create digital paintings, sketches, paintings, comics, and even hand-drawn stop-motion animation. The interface is easily customizable. Plus, Krita works great with graphics tablets.
GIMP
- Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux.
Powerful, flexible, customizable open source raster editor. True, the interface and hotkeys are peculiar here - artists who are used to Photoshop will have to relearn.
GIMP has most of the tools available in Photoshop: layers, masks, color correction, smart selection, brushes, filters, and a mountain of other features. Some of the missing ones can be fixed using third-party extensions.
- Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux.
But this is already a tool for creating vector graphics - a free and open source analogue Adobe Illustrator. It is well suited for creating logos, icons, web graphics, vector illustrations, and other design products.
Inkscape contains everything for comfortable creation and editing vector images: color and texture management tools, layers, smart placement and alignment of objects, as well as the ability to vectorize bitmap images.
- Platforms: Windows.
This, of course, is not a full-fledged analogue of Photoshop, but rather, the good old Paint on steroids, but for amateur drawing it will be enough.
It is precisely because of its simplicity that Paint.NET is well suited for beginner artists. Plus, it is able to work quickly even on devices.
Paint.NET supports working with layers and has a lot of effects. There are tools for blurring, styling, sharpening and noise reduction, and if desired, the program's capabilities can be extended using plugins.
- Platforms: Windows, macOS.
- Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, web.
Gravit Designer is a fairly powerful and advanced yet free vector graphics editor. With it, you can easily create icons, logos, banners and other images. The application has many tools: curves, layers, shapes, selection and transformation of objects, work with text and fonts.
In addition, there is a built-in library of user-created vector objects. You can freely use them in your own work. Another feature of the application: if desired, it can be launched without installation, directly in the browser through the Gravit native web service.
Paid programs for drawing on a computer
- Platforms: Windows, macOS.
- Price:$49.99.
The editor impresses with its capabilities. Customizable panels and keyboard shortcuts, a convenient canvas rotation system that makes it look like you are drawing on real paper, compatibility with graphics tablets, shadow effects, glow effects, contours, bevels - just to name a few.
Affinity Designer is definitely worth a try for those who are professionally involved in graphics and design and do not want to overpay for Photoshop.
- Platforms: Windows.
- Price:$59.99
A very peculiar program for drawing, which differs from the others presented here. BlackInk will allow you to draw incredible pictures with a rather unusual style. What can I say, just take a look at the images created in the editor, and you will understand that it allows you to create art.
Instead of traditional approaches to creating bitmaps BlackInk uses its own mechanism. The so-called Controller opens up unprecedented possibilities for customizing brushes. It is not easy to master it, but the result will impress you.
- Platforms: Windows, macOS.
- Price: subscription from 644 rubles per month.
Photoshop is the de facto standard in the world. computer graphics, the most popular program for artists, designers and photographers. It makes no sense to talk about the possibilities: if something can be done with the image, then it will do it.
Because Photoshop is part of cloud service Adobe Creative Cloud, you can easily use your brushes, colors and styles on all devices - settings are synchronized literally on the fly. In addition, there are just a bunch of plug-ins created for Photoshop because of its popularity.
The only thing wrong with Adobe's brainchild is the subscription price. However, this was to be expected, because Photoshop is the most powerful and advanced of all raster editors in the world.
- Platforms: Windows, macOS.
- Price:$429.
Everyone knows Corel Draw - the most powerful professional vector graphics editor. But Corel has another brainchild - the raster editor Corel Painter, which is great for drawing. This editor has many handy tools for working with color, synthesizing textures and cloning objects, as well as brushes, canvases and layers.
This expensive but effective editor for sophisticated artists is definitely worth the money.
Loading...