Artificial intelligence is transforming the design industry, making it easier and faster to create stunning visuals. Whether you need to generate graphics, streamline workflows, or enhance creativity, AI tools offer a helping hand. Here’s a breakdown of six powerful AI tools every designer should try. First, we will discuss how to check the usefulness of AI tools.
How to Check the Usefulness of AI Tools
AI tools can be useful, but how do you determine their effectiveness? Here are the key factors to consider before integrating an AI tool into your workflow.
1. Ease of Use: A good AI tool should simplify your work, not complicate it.
Can you learn it quickly without extensive training?
Does it integrate smoothly with existing software?
2. Speed and Efficiency: A useful AI tool should enhance productivity and save valuable time.
Does it reduce time spent on repetitive tasks?
Can it process bulk tasks efficiently?
Does it generate designs faster than manual work?
3. Quality of Output: If constant corrections are needed, the tool may not be worth the investment.
Does the AI generate high-quality results?
Is the output customizable to match your style?
Does it require frequent manual adjustments?
4. Creativity and Flexibility: AI should enhance creativity, not limit it.
Can it produce unique, innovative designs?
Does it allow creative control, or is it too restrictive?
Does it adapt to different styles and industries?
5. Cost vs. Value: Invest in AI tools that provide tangible improvements in efficiency and quality.
Is the tool reasonably priced for its features?
Does the free version offer enough functionality?
Will it save enough time to justify the cost?
6. Integration and Compatibility: A great AI tool should fit seamlessly into your workflow.
Does it work with your current design software?
Can you export files in commonly used formats?
Does it sync with cloud storage and collaboration tools?
7. User Support and Updates: Reliable support and continuous improvements are essential for long-term usability.
Is customer support available when needed?
Does the tool receive frequent updates?
Is there an active user community?
Top 6 AI Tools for Designers
1. Adobe Firefly
Features:
AI-powered image generation
Text-to-image and text effects
Smart recoloring and vectorization
Seamless integration with Adobe Creative Cloud
Pros:
High-quality image generation
Deep integration with Adobe tools
User-friendly interface
Cons:
Limited free access
Requires an Adobe Creative Cloud subscription
Best For: Graphic designers, digital artists, and marketing professionals who need quick, high-quality design enhancements.
2. Canva Magic Studio
Features:
AI-powered design assistant
Automatic background remover
AI-generated templates and layouts
Text-to-image and text-to-video tools
Pros:
Easy to use, even for beginners
Extensive template library
Free version with great features
Cons:
Not ideal for detailed, professional editing
Some AI tools are locked behind a paid plan
Best For: Social media managers, marketers, and small business owners who need fast and stunning graphics.
3. Runway ML
Features:
AI-powered video editing
Text-to-video and motion tracking
AI-generated special effects
Browser-based—no installation required
Pros:
No need for high-end hardware
Advanced AI effects for videos
Continuous updates with new AI features
Cons:
Limited features in the free version
Slow processing for large files
Best For: Video editors, content creators, and filmmakers looking for AI-powered tools to speed up video editing and add creative effects.
4. Midjourney
Features:
AI-powered text-to-image generator
Highly detailed, artistic images
Works through Discord for easy collaboration
Customizable prompts for unique visuals
Pros:
Produces stunning, high-quality images
Great for concept art and mood boards
Fast and easy to use
Cons:
No free version
Limited control over minor details
Best For: Artists, illustrators, and creative professionals who need inspiration or high-quality AI-generated images for branding and marketing.
5. Khroma
Features:
AI-powered color palette generator
Learns your color preferences
Suggests color combinations based on your style
Works seamlessly with design tools
Pros:
Saves time in picking color schemes
Generates unique and professional palettes
Free to use with no subscriptions
Cons:
Limited to color-related tasks
No direct design capabilities
Best For: Web designers, branding experts, and graphic designers who want AI-powered help in selecting the perfect color schemes.
6. Remove.bg
Features:
AI-powered background remover
Instant processing for images
Supports bulk editing
Integrates with design tools
Pros:
Lightning-fast background removal
Easy to use for all skill levels
Saves hours of manual editing
Cons:
The free version outputs lower-resolution images
Works best with clear subject-background separation
Best For: E-commerce store owners, photographers, and designers who need quick and efficient background removal for professional images.
Final Thoughts
AI is revolutionizing design, but it’s essential to choose the right tools. Whether you need quick design templates, high-quality image generation, or AI-powered color suggestions, these tools can enhance your workflow without replacing creativity. Evaluate each tool based on ease of use, efficiency, quality, creativity, cost, integration, and support.