Our verdict: Affinity is the strongest free alternative to Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign in a single app. Every pixel, vector and layout tool is free with no time limit. The catch is a mandatory Canva account, and the AI tools are reserved for paid Canva plans.
About Affinity
Affinity began as three paid apps from Serif: Affinity Photo, Designer and Publisher. After Canva bought Serif, it merged them into one app called Affinity and made it free. The app opens files created in Affinity V1 and V2, but those older apps cannot open files saved by the new one.
The app is split into Pixel, Vector and Layout studios that share one document, so you can retouch a photo, draw a logo and lay out a brochure without switching programs. It imports PSD, AI, IDML and DWG files with their layers and structure. With a Canva premium plan, Canva AI tools such as Generative Fill and Generative Expand appear inside the app.
What it does well
- Three studios in one. Pixel, Vector and Layout tools work on the same document.
- Adobe file import. Opens PSD, AI, IDML and DWG files with layers preserved.
- Image Trace. Converts bitmap images into editable vector shapes.
- Publishing tools. Page layout with ePub export, mesh gradients and hatch fills.
- Custom studios. Rearrange panels and combine tools into your own workspace.
Who it is for
Good fit
Designers, photographers and small businesses who want professional tools without an Adobe subscription.
Look elsewhere
People who refuse to create an online account, or who need the AI tools without paying for Canva.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Full professional toolset for free
- Photo, vector and layout tools in one app
- Imports Adobe file formats
- Opens older Affinity V1 and V2 files
Cons
- Requires a Canva account to use
- AI features only with a paid Canva plan
- Files saved in the new app do not open in Affinity V1 or V2
How to install Affinity
Download the Windows (Intel/AMD) installer for personal PCs; the MSIX variant is meant for business deployment. On first launch you sign in with a Canva account, and a free account unlocks all editing tools. The app needs about 2.5 GB of disk space and a DirectX 10 GPU.
Questions about Affinity
Is Affinity free?
Yes. All vector, layout and pixel tools are free with a free Canva account. Only the Canva AI tools need a premium Canva plan.
Do I need a Canva account for Affinity?
Yes. You sign in with a Canva account; the free plan is enough for every editing tool.
Can Affinity open Photoshop files?
Yes. It imports PSD files, as well as AI, IDML and DWG, with their layers and structure.
