Choose Affinity if you want
Illustration in a free desktop app.
A free illustration app with vector and pixel tools in one document, on Windows and macOS. It is built for design and layout as much as painting, and an iPad version is still in development.
Choose ArtRage if you want
Natural media oil and paint effects.
Natural media painting with textured canvases, layers and blend modes, on Windows and macOS. The page covers the Vitae edition, a one-time $80 purchase, and it does not run on iPad.
The main differences
- Affinity can be used for free; ArtRage requires payment.
Side by side
 Affinity |  ArtRage | |
|---|---|---|
| Score | 84.5 | 82.0 |
| Rank in list | #4 of 6 | #5 of 6 |
| Price | FreeFree with a Canva account; Canva AI tools need a premium plan | One-time purchaseVitae edition costs $80 once; no subscription |
| Free to use | Yes | No |
| Open source | No | No |
| Platforms | WindowsmacOSWindows, macOS | WindowsmacOSWindows, macOS |
| Made by | Canva | Not stated |
| Best for | Illustration in a free desktop app | Natural media oil and paint effects |
| Strengths |
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| Limits |
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| Links | Visit site | Visit site |
Questions about Affinity vs ArtRage
- Is Affinity better than ArtRage?
- Affinity ranks higher in our list of digital painting software (#4 against #5, score 84.5 against 82.0), but the gap is small and the better choice depends on what you need. Affinity is best for: illustration in a free desktop app. ArtRage is best for: natural media oil and paint effects.
- Which is cheaper, Affinity or ArtRage?
- Affinity: Free with a Canva account; Canva AI tools need a premium plan. ArtRage: Vitae edition costs $80 once; no subscription.
- Do Affinity and ArtRage run on the same platforms?
- Affinity supports Windows, macOS. ArtRage supports Windows, macOS.