Graphic designers require a lot of high-quality tools and gadgets that help them get their job done efficiently. Each tool can tackle a different aspect of graphic design, from the simple productivity tools to the more complex gadgets that require more expert-level use and knowledge. Whether you’re starting out as an expert graphic designer, check out the following tools and consider incorporating them into your graphic design tool collection.
1. Trackpad
Graphic design requires a lot of time spent on the computer. Because of this, you need something that gives you relief from having to move your arm too much while moving the pointer. With a trackpad, your arm gets some much-needed relief and allows your fingers to take on some efforts of being on the computer for long periods of time.
The one you purchase will depend on your budget and computer type, but it should be one that works seamlessly with your computer. It should also be way more comfortable to use than your regular mouse.
2. Laptop Computer For Graphic Designers
A computer is one of the most powerful tools a graphic designer can use. As a graphic designer, it’s important to have a computer that is both powerful and portable. Especially for the graphic designer on the go, who needs the right tools no matter where they are.
Whether you’re working from home or constantly traveling, a portable computer is the easiest way to take your work with you, no matter where you go. Take the time to look up the best laptops for graphic designers before making a purchase. Make sure to get one that suits all of your needs.
3. Desktop Computer
If you’re a graphic designer, having a laptop computer is essential. However, a desktop computer is also important to get the job done. A laptop offers a variety of benefits that a desktop can’t provide. Between the portability and the convenience of a laptop, it’s difficult to see why a desktop is better.
On the other hand, a desktop computer can be twice as powerful as a regular laptop, making it easier for graphic designers to use the powerful design software they need with ease. If possible, strive to have both a laptop and a desktop computer in your arsenal.
4. Drawing Tablet
Finding a good drawing tablet that works perfectly for your needs and wants isn’t easy. Depending on your experience and level of expertise, you might find tablets that range widely in quality, features, and cost.
Nevertheless, a drawing tablet is just one of those tools that graphic designers would benefit from owning.
Offering the ability to take your creations from pad to screen in an instant, every graphic designer simply needs a drawing tablet in their arsenal of design tools and gadgets. If you’re in the market for a drawing tablet, make sure to do some research before purchasing one to make sure you get one that’s right for you.
5. Headphones
A good pair of headphones is necessary for any creative worker who needs time and focuses to get their work done. This is no different for graphic designers, who also require lots of concentration to do their work. If you’re considering getting yourself a good pair of headphones, consider purchasing a pair that has noise-canceling features.
This will allow you to work in nearly any noisy environment without issues. If this isn’t possible for you, there are still many brands that do a good job of canceling out a lot of external noises and focus on your work.
6. Portable Storage Device
Depending on the type of computer you have, you might not have enough storage space available to you. If this is the case, you would benefit from having a portable storage device for your computer such as an external hard drive. An external hard drive allows you to save any big-sized projects you may be working on without issues.
It also allows you to continue working on your projects from any computer you have available at the moment. The best benefit of an external hard drive, however, is that it serves as a backup storage device for your projects. This will protect your progress in case of technical difficulties.
7. Computer Mouse
If a trackpad isn’t your thing, you might be interested in having a good computer mouse for your graphic design needs. Not everyone benefits from the features of a trackpad, especially those who have not used one before and may not be comfortable with how they work. For these kinds of graphic designers, a computer mouse is the best way to go.
Your computer mouse options can range widely by price, size, and a number of buttons, and customization options. It’s best to pick one that fits comfortably on your hand and allows you to use it for extensive periods of time with ease. Also, consider your graphic design needs when picking the number of buttons and connectivity options.
8. Design Software
This is possibly the single most important tool that a graphic designer can use. Without proper design software, graphic designers simply cannot get their jobs done.
So it’s important for graphic designers to have a good set of design software available. Design programs such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign are only some of the programs available for designers. While these are widely popular, there are a variety of other programs that help graphic designers do their work efficiently. When picking one out, it’s important to choose one that fits your needs, as well as your budget.
9. Antivirus Software
Antivirus software is not necessary only to graphic designers, but they are very much an important part of the graphic designer’s arsenal of tools and gadgets. This is because antivirus software helps designers protect the most important tool they have in their arsenal: their computers.
Just with everything else, antivirus software options vary by quality and price. Fortunately, it’s easy to find antivirus programs that successfully keep your computer safe without breaking the budget.
The best route to take when shopping for antivirus software is to pick one that is highly reviewed and well-known in the market. Once you find one that you trust, make sure it fits your security needs, and make the purchase.
10. Digital Calendar
A digital calendar is a simple tool that plays an important role in the graphic designer’s life. For designers who are always on the go and maintain a busy schedule, a digital calendar can be a great way to stay on track. Physical calendars help too, but digital calendars such as Google Calendar offer better features such as multi-device syncing options that keep your schedule available to you from almost any device.
11. Comfortable Chair
Like with most tools that creative workers use, it’s important for the chair you use as a graphic designer to be as comfortable and ergonomic as possible. Most graphic designers spend long hours of the day and night sitting in front of a computer and working on projects.
This can not only get uncomfortable but can also cause health issues such as back pain or soreness. For this reason, it’s necessary to have a chair that is not only comfortable to sit in but appropriate for your specific physical needs.
12. Keyboard
Similar to the computer mouse, having a good keyboard is essential to the graphic designer’s set of tools and gadgets. As a tool that is constantly being used, it’s important that the keyboard you have as a graphic designer is comfortable to use, especially for long periods of time.
Whether the keyboard you prefer is mechanical, ergonomic, or standard, the most important part of choosing the right keyboard for you is getting one that fits your needs.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a starting graphic designer or an expert at your craft, you probably require a great variety of tools and gadgets to work on your design projects. If you’re not sure exactly what you need to do your graphic design work, consider the following list:
- A trackpad for your computer
- A laptop computer
- A desktop computer
- A drawing tablet
- A good pair of headphones
- A portable storage device
- A computer mouse
- Design software
- Antivirus software
- A digital calendar
- A comfortable chair
- A keyboard for your computer
All of these tools will help you complete your graphic design to work more efficiently and comfortably. If you’re looking to start your graphic design career or are interested in improving your arsenal of tools and gadgets, look at this list and consider getting any of these tools.
