Adobe Illustrator Online

Adobe Illustrator Online is the browser-based way to work with Adobe Illustrator, Adobe's vector graphics software for logos, icons, illustrations and layouts. Instead of installing the full program, you open Illustrator's web experience after signing in to your Adobe account. There is no separate file to download for the online version itself; for the full desktop app, Adobe offers a free trial download of Illustrator.

What can I do with Illustrator online?

Illustrator works with vector graphics: shapes defined by paths rather than pixels, so they stay sharp at any size, from a business card to a billboard. In the browser you can create and edit such designs, work on files stored in Adobe's cloud and share them for feedback. This is convenient on a PC where you cannot install software, on a lightweight laptop, or when a colleague needs to review or make a small change to a design without setting up the desktop app. Complex projects with many layers, advanced typography or plug-ins are still best handled in the desktop version, which offers the complete tool set.

What do I need?

• An Adobe account.
• A current browser such as Chrome or Edge on Windows.
• A stable internet connection, since files and tools run through Adobe's services.
• A plan that includes Illustrator for continued use after any trial.

Is it free?

Illustrator is a paid Adobe product. Adobe offers a free trial, after which a subscription is required. Check what the trial includes and when it ends, and cancel in your Adobe account if you do not want to continue.

How do I start?

1. Go to the official Illustrator page and sign in with your Adobe account.
2. Choose to start the trial or open Illustrator if your plan already includes it.
3. Open a file from your Adobe cloud storage or create a new one.
4. Save regularly; work is stored in your Adobe account.

How does it compare with the desktop app?

The desktop Illustrator runs locally, works offline once installed and has the full set of features. The online experience trades some of that depth for convenience and quick access from any PC. Many designers use both: desktop for main work, browser for quick edits and reviews. Adobe describes new features in its Illustrator release notes.

Is it safe?

Sign in only on adobe.com. Phishing pages that imitate Adobe's login are common, as are "free Illustrator" downloads on unofficial sites that contain malware. Turn on two-step verification for your Adobe account.

Pros and cons

• Pro: no installation needed on the PC.
• Pro: files stay in Adobe's cloud for sharing and review.
• Pro: free trial available.
• Con: requires a subscription after the trial.
• Con: fewer tools than the desktop version and needs a constant connection.

What are the alternatives?

Our listings include Adobe Illustrator for the desktop, CorelDraw as another professional vector editor, and GIMP and Microsoft Designer for free or simpler graphics work.