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Affinity is a free desktop creative application that combines the former Photo, Designer, and Publisher capabilities for image editing, vector design, and page layout. A free Canva account is required to activate it, while Canva AI Studio features such as Generative Fill, Expand & Edit, and Remove Background require Canva premium access.
For painters and illustrators, the main benefit is having pixel, vector, layout, and RAW tools in one workspace rather than moving between separate Affinity products. The unified app launched for macOS and Windows; Canva described an iPad version as coming soon but did not announce a release date.
What “free Affinity” actually means
The core Affinity desktop application is free to download and use, with no time limit or deliberately stripped-down free tier, according to Canva.
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One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchYou need a Canva account to activate the software, but a free account is sufficient for the core application. Canva AI Studio features, including Generative Fill, Expand & Edit, and Remove Background, are associated with a Canva premium account.
#1 Best Overall
- Universal Compatibility: It's compatible with Windows 7/8/10/11, Mac 10.10 or later, Linux. Compatible with Photoshop, Illustrator, SAI, Painter, MediBang, Clip Studio, and more. It's ideal for digital drawing, animation, sketching, photo editing, 3D sculpting, and more (XP-PEN Artist12 drawing tablet must be connected to a computer to work).
- 11.6 HD IPS display: Artist12 drawing tablet is the XP-PEN’s latest smallest 1920x1080 HD display paired with 72% NTSC(100%SRGB) Color Gamut, presenting vivid images, vibrant colors and extreme detail for a stunning display of your artwork. It's pre-installed anti-reflective screen protector already. The slim touch bar can be programmed to zoom in and out, scroll up and down. Its 6 shortcut keys are customizable, XP-PEN driver allows the shortcut keys to be attuned to other different software
- Battery-free stylus with a digital eraser at the end: XP-PEN advanced P06 passive pen was made for a traditional pencil-like feel! Featuring a unique hexagonal design, non-slip & tack-free flexible glue grip, partial transparent pen tip, and an eraser at the end! Delivering technical sense, high efficiency, with a fashionable and comfortable grip, and there are 8 replacement pen nibs included with the multi-function pen holder
- XP-PEN Artist12 drawing tablet with screen is ideal for online education and remote work. Set the Artist12 drawing screen as an extended display when working from home, visually present your handwritten notes on the screen directly. Teachers and students can write and edit complicated functional equations with ease. It's compatible with XSplit, Zoom, Twitch, Microsoft Teams, ezTalks Webinar, Idroo, Scribbiar, wiziQ, and more
- XP-PEN provides a one-year warranty and lifetime technical support for all our drawing pen tablets/displays. Register your XP-PEN Artist12 drawing tablet on xp-pen web to apply for an ArtRage 5, openCanvas, or Explain Everything. Your laptop/desktop needs to have HDMI and USB-A ports available for the connection, or you need an extra converter(such as Thunderbolt to HDMI, depends on what ports that your laptop/desktop has) for the connection
| Feature | Included in the free Affinity app? |
|---|---|
| Pixel painting and photo editing | Yes |
| Vector drawing and image tracing | Yes |
| Multipage layouts and typography | Yes |
| RAW development | Yes |
| Canva AI Studio tools | Require the relevant Canva premium access |
| Canva account for activation | Required; a free account is sufficient for the core app |
One application, four useful workspaces
Affinity divides its capabilities into studios rather than requiring separate programs. Canva also says users can rearrange panels, combine tools from different disciplines, and save or share custom studio arrangements.
- Pixel Studio: raster painting, photo editing, masks, selections, retouching, and texture work.
- Vector Studio: logos, shapes, paths, scalable line work, and vector tracing.
- Layout Studio: multipage documents, master pages, typography, portfolios, zines, and print projects.
- Develop Studio: RAW processing before sending an image into the rest of the application.
This combination is useful for painters who work across media. A scanned watercolor can be cleaned in Pixel Studio, a vector border added in Vector Studio, and the finished work placed in a catalogue or portfolio in Layout Studio. Those elements can coexist in one project.
The workspace is customizable. Someone who mainly paints can keep brushes, Layers, Colour, and Navigator visible and hide layout panels until they are needed.
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Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallHow to install Affinity
- Go to the official Get Affinity page.
- Download the macOS or Windows application.
- Install and launch it.
- Sign in with an existing Canva account or create a free one.
- Complete activation, then start a new document or open an existing file.
The unified release launched for macOS and Windows. Canva described an iPad version as coming soon, without announcing a release date; do not assume the free desktop release is an iPad release.
What this means for digital painters
The main practical benefit is that one application combines capabilities previously spread across Affinity Photo, Designer, and Publisher. It can support raster work, vector elements, RAW development, and portfolio or print layouts.
Rank #2
- PLEASE NOTE：XPPen Artist13.3 Pro drawing tablet Need to connect with computer,you need to use it with your computer or laptop, the 3 in 1 cable is included
- Drawing Tablet with Screen: Tilt Function- XPPen Artist 13.3 Pro supports up to 60 degrees of tilt function, so now you don't need to adjust the brush direction in the software again and again. Simply tilt to add shading to your creation and enjoy smoother and more natural transitions between lines and strokes
- Graphics Tablets: High Color Gamut- The 13.3 inch fully-laminated FHD Display pairs a superb color accuracy of 88% NTSC (Adobe RGB≧91%，sRGB≧123%) with a 178-degree viewing angle and delivers rich colors, vivid images, and dazzling details in a wider view. Your creative world is now as powerful as it is colorful
- Drawing Pad: One is enough- The sleek Red Dial on the display is expertly designed with creators in mind, its strategic placement allows for natural drawing postures. With just one wheel, you can effortlessly zoom in and out, adjust brush sizes, and flip the canvas—all tailored to suit the habits of everyday artists. The 8 customizable shortcut keys allow you to personalize your setup, streamlining your workflow and enhancing creative efficiency
- Universal Compatibility & Software Support：supports Windows 7 (or later), Mac OS X 10.10 (or later), Chrome OS 88 (or later), and Linux systems. Fully compatible with major creative software including Photoshop, Illustrator, SAI, and Blender 3D. Register your device to access additional programs like ArtRage 5 and openCanvas for expanded creative possibilities.
Affinity is not identical to Photoshop. Tools, shortcuts, layer behavior, and file conversion differ, so Photoshop users should expect an adjustment period. Its free core app makes it possible to test the workflow without committing to a subscription.
A painting workflow might look like this:
- Use Develop Studio to correct a RAW photograph of a traditional painting.
- Move into Pixel Studio to remove dust, adjust colour, and add a signature or texture.
- Use Vector Studio to create a logo, border, or scalable label.
- Bring the artwork into Layout Studio for a portfolio page, exhibition handout, or small catalogue.
- Check the document and export a PDF for print.
To trace a raster image, switch to Vector Studio and choose Vector > Image Trace. The result can be a starting point for a simplified illustration or cut-ready shape, but check nodes, corners, and small enclosed shapes; automatic tracing still needs cleanup.
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1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesOpening Photoshop files: useful, but not perfect
Affinity can open PSD and PSB files and advertises support for formats including AI, PDF, SVG, TIFF, and IDML. To open a Photoshop file, use File > Open, select the PSD, and open it. To place it into an existing document, use File > Place.
There are several things to check when moving an active project from Photoshop:
Smart Objects may rasterize
Smart Objects rasterize by default unless you change the import preference. Before opening the file, go to Settings > General and enable Import PSD smart objects where possible.
Rank #3
- Please note: Kamvas 13 (Gen 3) Pen Display is not a standalone product, this device must be connected to a computer/laptop to work.
- All-new Canvas Glass 2.0: HUION Kamvas 13 (Gen 3) drawing tablet for pc features a fully laminated 13.3-inch screen and brand new anti-sparkle canvas glass 2.0 for reduced glare and improved accuracy. It is perfect for designers, artists, and illustrators to unleash their creativity.
- Advanced PenTech 4.0 Technology: The 16384 levels of pressure sensitivity and 2g IAF ensure a fluid and natural drawing experience, while the 3 customized pen side buttons improve your workflow.
- Improved Color Accuracy: With enhanced color accuracy to Avg. ΔE<1.5, 16.7 million display colors, 99% sRGB coverage, and Rec.709 standard color gamuts, HUION Kamvas 13 (Gen 3) digital art tablet delivers stunning visuals.
- Rigorous Color Calibration: HUION Kamvas 13 (Gen 3) drawing monitor includes a factory calibration report for added assurance of color consistency.
Where an imported Smart Object remains supported, select the Move Tool and double-click its layer in the Layers panel. You can also use Edit Document or Replace Document in the context toolbar.
Text can arrive as pixels
If editable type matters, enable Import PSD text as text rather than bitmap under Settings > General. Otherwise, text layers may arrive as bitmap content and no longer be normally editable as text.
Opening is not the same as round-tripping
Opening a PSD does not mean Affinity automatically saves over the original Photoshop file. Save your working version as an Affinity document. If someone needs a PSD, use File > Export and choose the Photoshop format.
Check the colour space
Affinity preserves the imported file’s colour space by default. To convert opened files to your working space, go to Settings > Color and enable Convert opened files to working space. Check this before colour-critical edits or print preparation.
Preparing paintings for print
For a document’s colour format or ICC profile, use Document > Setup > Convert Format/ICC Profile.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Rank #4
- Ultra-Portable with Revolutionary X-Dial Wheels: Weighing only 1.58 lb with an 11.9" portable screen, XP Pen drawing tablet features dual X-Dial wheels that instantly adjust brush size and canvas zoom, saving 40% operation time. The 33% narrower bezels provide more drawing area, while 8 customizable keys prevent misoperations. Perfect for digital artists sketching in cafes or students carrying this tablet with pen between classes
- Eye-Care Paper-Feel Display: AG etched glass provides paper-like texture, reducing 85% glare and resisting fingerprints. Full lamination technology ensures the pen tip closely follows the cursor with nearly zero parallax. Ideal for architects detailing blueprints or illustrators working long hours - your eyes stay comfortable even after 8-hour sessions with this professional graphic tablet
- Magnetic X4 Pen with 16K Precision: The X4 chip drawing pen features 16,384 pressure levels and 60-degree tilt support, with 2g initial pressure perfect for feather-detail illustrations on your drawing tablet. 50% faster response speed and 200% steadier nibs prevent wobble during precise inking. Includes 10 replacement nibs and magnetic attachment to prevent loss. Enjoy professional drawing experience with smooth, natural strokes that respond to your every movement
- Pro Color Accuracy with Factory Calibration: This drawing tablet with screen delivers 1920x1080 Full HD resolution with 99% sRGB and ΔE<1.5 color accuracy displaying 16.7 million colors. Factory pre-calibrated with OSD menu adjustment ensures perfect color matching for professional photography retouching or brand design projects where color precision is critical
- Certified Universal Compatibility: This art tablet guarantees flawless performance across all major platforms: Windows 7 or later, macOS 10.13 or later, Android 10.0 or later, ChromeOS 88 or later, Linux, and Windows ARM. It is rigorously tested with top software including Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Krita, ensuring a stable and hassle-free experience for freelancers and students collaborating across different ecosystems
Before exporting a multipage portfolio, open the preflight panel with Window > Layout > Preflight to help catch document problems.
To export, use File > Export > Export. Affinity’s guidance identifies PDF/X-1a:2003 as a conservative compatibility choice and PDF/X-4 as a more flexible option when the printer supports transparency and ICC profiles. Ask the printer which standard it prefers rather than guessing.
Batch processing is available at File > New Image Process > Batch Job. Click Add under Sources, then configure the output settings. This can produce consistent web-sized copies or convert a folder of scans without opening each image individually.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What changed after launch
On October 29, 2025, Canva announced the unified desktop application, combining the former Photo, Designer, and Publisher capabilities and making the core app free.
By April 2026, Affinity had added Canva Brand System features, including access to approved brand colours, fonts, imagery, and brand voice. These features may be useful for freelance artists and studios producing branded materials.
Best Value
- Word-first 16K Pressure Levels: 1.5x* faster than ever. Initial response rate decreases to 90ms*. Accuracy increases by 20% to bring out every art project precisely what you want. Virtually no lag or broken lines. X3 pro smart chip stylus delivers much more precise and smooth lines than ever before - exceling athyper-nuanced creation and beyond
- Easy Control, One Scroll for All: Easy & efficiency Red Dial Quick Key simplifies the interface for beginners, like aspiring graphic designers and junior illustrators, allowing them to master essential controls such as brush size, navigation and zoom In/Out. This design ensures a natural hand position, reducing wrist strain during prolonged use. Additionally, with 8 customizable keys, users can easily assign frequently used functions, streamlining their workflow and minimizing interruptions
- User-friendly Setup: Understanding that many artists and designers, especially beginners, may not be tech-savvy,the new 13-inch drawing tablet features clear setup instructions for hassle-free installation. With an updated driver and intuitive interface, users can easily configure the drawing screen, and pens with a single installation. Quick access to settings allows adjustments to brightness, contrast, and color temperature (Windows only), enabling even newcomers to start creating right away
- Stunning Color Accuracy: Featuring 125% sRGB, 107% Adobe RGB, 95%display P3 color gamut, this tablet ensures every stroke has exceptional color fidelity. With 16.7 million colors at 8-bit depth, you can enjoy smooth gradients and rich transitions. The 250 cd/m² brightness and 1000:1 contrast ratio provide clearer, more vivid images, allowing artists to see their creations accurately. Ideal for both professionals and hobbyists
- Exceptional Visual Experience: Our 13.3-inch drawing tablet features a full-laminated screen with AG Film, reduces parallax and glare for a paper-like feel. With Full HD resolution and an IPS panel, enjoy vibrant colors and sharp details from a wide 178° viewing angle, ideal for drawing, animation, photography, fashion, architecture design, and much more
The April 2026 update also added direct .af workflows with Capture One and DaVinci Resolve. DaVinci Resolve can refresh an .af file after it is updated and saved in Affinity. Affinity also introduced an AI Connector for Claude, described as free during its beta period, for automating repetitive tasks through generated scripts. These additions do not change the distinction between the free core creative tools and Canva AI Studio features associated with a premium account.
Should a painter switch?
Affinity is worth trying if you want a capable desktop alternative without a recurring software bill, especially if your work combines painting with page design. It can also be useful for opening PSD files, preparing print work, or building a portfolio.
Switching is less straightforward if your studio relies heavily on Photoshop-only features, complex Smart Object systems, proprietary plug-ins, or exact PSD round-tripping. Test a copy of an important project: inspect layers and text, compare colours, and export a test file before changing your main workflow.
The Tool Desk
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Is Affinity completely free now?
The core desktop application is free to download and use, and a free Canva account is required for activation. Canva AI Studio features such as Generative Fill and Remove Background are associated with Canva premium access.
Is Affinity available on iPad?
The launch announcement covered macOS and Windows and described an iPad version as coming soon, without giving a release date. Do not describe the unified free desktop app as an iPad release based on that announcement.
Can Affinity open and save Photoshop PSD files?
Affinity can open PSD files through File > Open and export a document to PSD through File > Export. Smart Objects and text may need import settings changed, and some Photoshop features may not transfer perfectly.
Is Affinity a good Photoshop alternative for painters?
It is an option for raster painting, image editing, vector elements, RAW development, and print layouts without a subscription for the core tools. Artists relying on Photoshop-specific plug-ins or complex Smart Objects should test important files before switching.
Recommended Free Tools
The Bottom Line
Affinity combines pixel painting and retouching, vector artwork, layout, and RAW processing in a free desktop application. A free Canva account is required to activate it, while Canva AI Studio features require the relevant premium access. PSD support is useful but not perfect, so check Smart Objects, text, colour profiles, and export settings before relying on it for an important project.
Quick Recap
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