Adobe Photoshop vs Procreate
Adobe Photoshop is a full-featured desktop raster editor with a subscription cost of $20.99/month, ideal for complex cover designs requiring advanced tools like layer masks and filters. Procreate is a one-time purchase ($12.99) iPad-only app that excels at illustration and painting, offering a streamlined workflow for artists on tablets. The main differences are platform (desktop vs iPad) and pricing model (subscription vs one-time), with Photoshop providing more advanced editing capabilities and Procreate focusing on intuitive drawing. For self-published authors, the choice depends on whether they need a professional desktop tool for intricate design work or an affordable, portable illustration app for quick cover creation.
Pick Adobe Photoshop
Pick Adobe Photoshop if you need a professional-grade raster editor with comprehensive design capabilities, advanced layer controls, and you're willing to pay a monthly subscription for desktop or web use.
Pick Procreate
Pick Procreate if you prefer a one-time affordable purchase, work primarily on an iPad, and value an intuitive illustration tool with a focus on painting and sketching for cover art.
At a glance
| Adobe Photoshop | Procreate | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ~$20.99/mo | One-time ~$12.99 |
| Pricing model | Subscription | One-time |
| Free option | No | No |
| Platforms | Mac, Windows | iOS |
| Best for | Cover Design | Cover Design |
| AI features | No | No |
| Open source | No | No |
See more options: Adobe Photoshop alternatives · Procreate alternatives