kitio.aiAdobe Illustrator vs Adobe InDesign
A side-by-side look at pricing plans, free tiers, features, pros and cons, updated for 2026. Adobe Illustrator starts at $22.99/mo and Adobe InDesign starts at See pricing page. Check both pricing pages for current plans.
At a glance
Best for
Pricing model
Starting price
Free plan
Made by
Based in
Rating
Key features
- Text to vector graphic
- Generative recolor
- Generative shape fill
- Mockup tool
- Creative Cloud Libraries
- Page and book layout
- Advanced typography
- Text to image with Firefly
- Generative Expand
- Print and interactive PDF export
| Feature | Adobe Illustrator | Adobe InDesign |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Professional vector design app with Firefly generative tools | Page layout software for print and digital, with Firefly AI tools |
| Category | Design | Design |
| Pricing model | Free trial | Free trial |
| Starting price | $22.99/mo | See pricing page |
| Free plan | No, 7-day trial | No, trial available |
| Made by | Adobe | Adobe |
| Based in | United States | United States |
| Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Key features |
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Pricing compared
Adobe Illustrator starts at $22.99/mo and Adobe InDesign starts at See pricing page. Check both pricing pages for current plans.
Free plan
Cheapest paid plan
Top plan
Free trial
2 plans
Illustrator
$22.99/mo
- Annual plan, billed monthly
- Illustrator desktop, web and iPad
- Generative credits included
Creative Cloud Pro
$69.99/mo
- Annual plan, billed monthly
- 20+ apps incl. Photoshop
- Premium Firefly features
Prices in USD, checked Oct 28, 2026 or later. Plans change often, so confirm on each tool's site before you buy.
Pros and cons
Adobe Illustrator
- Industry-standard vector toolset
- AI output stays editable
- Deep Creative Cloud integration
- Expensive subscription
- Steep learning curve
- Generative credits are capped
Adobe InDesign
- Industry standard for print layout
- Strong long-document tools
- Generative images without leaving the layout
- Subscription only
- Steep learning curve
- Generative features use monthly credits
Which one should you choose?
Choose Adobe Illustrator if you want:
- Industry-standard vector toolset
- AI output stays editable
- Deep Creative Cloud integration
Watch out: expensive subscription.
Choose Adobe InDesign if you want:
- Industry standard for print layout
- Strong long-document tools
- Generative images without leaving the layout
Watch out: subscription only.
Adobe Illustrator vs Adobe InDesign FAQ
What is the difference between Adobe Illustrator and Adobe InDesign?
Adobe Illustrator: Professional vector design app with Firefly generative tools. Adobe InDesign: Page layout software for print and digital, with Firefly AI tools. Both are design tools.
Is Adobe Illustrator or Adobe InDesign cheaper?
Adobe Illustrator starts at $22.99/mo and Adobe InDesign starts at See pricing page. Check both pricing pages for current plans.
Do Adobe Illustrator and Adobe InDesign have free plans?
Adobe Illustrator: No, 7-day trial. Adobe InDesign: No, trial available.
Who makes Adobe Illustrator?
Adobe Illustrator is made by Adobe, based in United States.
Who makes Adobe InDesign?
Adobe InDesign is made by Adobe, based in United States.
Which should I choose, Adobe Illustrator or Adobe InDesign?
Choose Adobe Illustrator if you value industry-standard vector toolset and ai output stays editable. Choose Adobe InDesign if you value industry standard for print layout and strong long-document tools.