To start in graphic design you need a computer that can handle large image files, design software, a desk and keyboard you can work at for hours, and somewhere to learn and to find paid work. Here is each of those, what it is for, and the picks this page recommends.
| What you need | What it is for | Picks on this page |
|---|---|---|
| Desk | Posture, and keeping your tools within reach | UPLIFT V2 Standing Desk, IKEA Bekant Desk |
| Laptop | Processing power, a good display and plenty of storage | Apple MacBook Pro, Dell XPS 15, Microsoft Surface Book 3 |
| Keyboard | Comfortable typing and shortcuts all day | Logitech MX Keys, Apple Magic Keyboard |
| Earphones | Blocking out noise while you work | Apple AirPods Pro, Sony WH-1000XM4 |
| Software | Actually making the designs | Adobe Creative Cloud, Canva, Gravit Designer |
| Learning | Building skills | Coursera, Udemy, Skillshare, Lynda |
| Gigs | Showing work and finding clients | Behance, Dribbble, Upwork |
Starter or Step Up?
You do not need everything at once. The software is where most beginners can start light: Canva and Gravit Designer run in the browser and are user-friendly, so you can begin making designs without a big outlay. Adobe Creative Cloud, with Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign, is the fuller toolkit to move to when your work or your clients call for it. On the hardware side, the laptop is the one place worth spending properly, because it has to cope with heavy graphics work; the desk, keyboard and earphones can follow.
A Desk That Keeps You Comfortable and Within Reach of Your Tools
Design means long stretches at a screen, so a good desk matters for ergonomics as well as for keeping your tools close.
- The UPLIFT V2 Standing Desk is a fantastic choice with its adjustable height settings and spacious work surface.
- IKEA’s Bekant Desk is another great option that combines affordability, space, and flexibility.
Laptops for Graphic Design
Look for strong processing power, an excellent display and substantial storage. Large design files and several programs open together will show up a weak machine quickly.
- Apple MacBook Pro with its Retina Display and robust specs, it’s a staple in the design world.
- The Dell XPS 15 and Microsoft Surface Book 3 are fantastic alternatives, both featuring stunning displays and high-performance specs.
Bluetooth Keyboards
A comfortable keyboard can significantly increase your productivity, and design programs lean on keyboard shortcuts, so you will use it constantly.
- Logitech MX Keys is popular for its responsive keys and backlit feature.
- The Apple Magic Keyboard is a sleek, minimalist choice with comfortable, low-profile keys.
- Here’s a list of best bluetooth keyboards
We also have our own list of Bluetooth keyboards if you want more options to compare.
Earphones for Focus
A quality pair of earphones is perfect for tuning into your favorite tunes while designing, and noise cancellation helps when the room around you is not quiet.
- The Apple AirPods Pro and Sony WH-1000XM4 are renowned for their excellent sound quality and noise-cancellation features.
Graphic Design Software
You’ll need powerful software to bring your designs to life.
- Adobe Creative Cloud offers a comprehensive suite of design tools, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.
- For web-based options, Canva and Gravit Designer are user-friendly and versatile.
For quick edits to photos and graphics in the browser, see these online photo editing tools.
Learning Resources
There’s always something new to learn in the world of graphic design!
- Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and Skillshare offer a wide range of graphic design courses.
- Websites like Lynda (also known as LinkedIn Learning) offer video tutorials led by industry experts.
Best Places for Graphic Designer Jobs or Gigs
Once your skills are up to scratch, it’s time to find those gigs.
- Behance: A fantastic platform to showcase your work and discover new job opportunities.
- Dribbble: This community allows designers to share their work, network, and find job opportunities.
- Upwork: One of the largest freelancing platforms, perfect for finding both long-term and short-term projects.
If you are thinking of working for yourself, starting your own graphic design business covers the portfolio, pricing and client side.
Equipped with these tools, you are ready to start taking on design work. Remember, you’ve got this, and the world is ready for your designs to light it up!
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