15 essential tools for graphic designers

Graphic designer at work
(Image credit: Getty)

If you're looking for the essential tools for graphic designers, you've come to the right place. We've rounded up the best hardware, software and other graphic design tools to help creatives of all levels work more effectively. Whether you're starting from scratch or looking to upgrade a specific piece of kit, our recommendations will help you pick the best option.

Reliable equipment doesn't have to be expensive (take a look at our guide to the best free graphic design software if your budget it particularly tight), but here we've hand-picked the very best kit that money can buy based on our reviews of each product. Some might be a big investment, but all will be worthwhile in the long run.

Why you can trust Creative Bloq Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

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Cat Ellis

Cat is currently the editor of Creative Bloq's sister site Advnture. She was operations editor on Computer Arts, the former magazine for graphic designers and illustrators, and spent many years covering creative software as downloads editor for TechRadar. Cat is also a UK Athletics qualified run leader, and in her spare time she enjoys nothing more than lacing up her shoes and hitting the roads and trails (the muddier, the better).