Photoshop
Adobe
Image editing for render post-production, collages and site photos.
- Runs on
- Windows, Mac
- Pricing
- Subscription
- Students
- Education pricing
Graphics & presentation
The tools used across the design process, from the first sketch to the final board. What each is for, what it runs on, how it's paid for, and whether students get it free.
Graphics & presentation
Boards, portfolios, diagrams and post-production.
Illustrator
Adobe
Vector graphics for diagrams, drawings for presentation and branding.
- Runs on
- Windows, Mac
- Pricing
- Subscription
- Students
- Education pricing
InDesign
Adobe
Layout for portfolios, boards, reports and books.
- Runs on
- Windows, Mac
- Pricing
- Subscription
- Students
- Education pricing
Figma
Figma
Collaborative design in the browser, handy for boards, diagrams and decks.
- Runs on
- Web, Windows, Mac
- Pricing
- Free and paid plans
- Students
- Free education plan
Newer tools, from startups
Generative design, site analysis, estimating and more: see what startups are building for architects and builders.
See startups →Platforms, pricing and student access are from each maker’s website and can change; check there before you buy.