Affinity
affinity.studio
What it is
Affinity is a desktop creative app combining vector design, pixel editing and page layout in one application. Individuals can use its Pixel, Vector and Layout tools without payment or tool restrictions, and the free plan includes export tools and Canva integration. A free Canva account is required to download and use Affinity; Canva premium is needed for Canva AI tools inside the app. It runs on Windows and macOS and is optimized for Apple silicon and Intel on macOS. Imported PSD, AI, IDML and DWG files can retain their layers and structure. Finished assets can be exported to Canva for live collaboration and campaigns, while designs can be imported into Cavalry for animation. After download and license activation, Affinity can be used offline. Help, lessons, stock libraries, Canva integrations and AI tools require an internet connection. The app can be installed on as many devices as desired, and the site says it will receive free updates. An iPad version is being built, with no release date announced.
Spec sheet
- Free plan
- YesRead 20 Sep 2026 · affinity.studio
- AI needs premium
- Canva premium is required to unlock Canva AI tools in Affinity.Read 27 Sep 2026 · affinity.studio
- Apple silicon support
- The app is optimized for Apple silicon and Intel on macOS.Read 27 Sep 2026 · affinity.studio
- Brand kit
- YesRead 20 Sep 2026 · affinity.studio
- Canva account required
- A free Canva account is required to download and use Affinity.Read 27 Sep 2026 · affinity.studio
- Canva integration
- Finished Affinity assets can be exported to Canva for live collaboration and campaigns.Read 27 Sep 2026 · affinity.studio
- Cavalry integration
- Finished designs can be imported directly into Cavalry for animation.Read 27 Sep 2026 · affinity.studio
- Creative toolsets
- Affinity combines vector design, pixel editing, and page layout in one app.Read 27 Sep 2026 · affinity.studio
- Desktop app
- YesRead 20 Sep 2026 · affinity.studio
- Desktop platforms
- Affinity is currently available on Windows and macOS.Read 27 Sep 2026 · affinity.studio
- File compatibility
- PSD, AI, IDML, and DWG files can retain layers and structure when imported.Read 27 Sep 2026 · affinity.studio
- Free for individuals
- Affinity is free for individuals with no payment required.Read 27 Sep 2026 · affinity.studio
- Free updates
- The app will receive free updates with new features and improvements.Read 27 Sep 2026 · affinity.studio
- Full free access
- Free users can use Pixel, Vector, and Layout tools without restrictions.Read 27 Sep 2026 · affinity.studio
- Illustration tools
- YesRead 20 Sep 2026 · affinity.studio
- iPad availability
- The iPad version is still being built and has no announced release date.Read 27 Sep 2026 · affinity.studio
- Mobile app
- NoRead 20 Sep 2026 · affinity.studio
- Multiple device installs
- Affinity can be installed on as many devices as desired.Read 27 Sep 2026 · affinity.studio
- Offline use
- After download and license activation, Affinity does not require internet access for use.Read 27 Sep 2026 · affinity.studio
- Online-only features
- Help, lessons, stock libraries, Canva integrations, and AI tools require online access.Read 27 Sep 2026 · affinity.studio
- Organization SSO
- Organizations can use SSO through Canva Enterprise or Canva Education.Read 27 Sep 2026 · affinity.studio
- Real-time collaboration
- YesRead 20 Sep 2026 · affinity.studio
- Support resources
- The site provides a Help Center, product help, lessons, and release notes.Read 27 Sep 2026 · affinity.studio
- Template library
- YesRead 20 Sep 2026 · affinity.studio
Plans and prices
Strong points and limits
Strong points
- Pixel, Vector and Layout tools are free without restrictions.
- Imported PSD, AI, IDML and DWG files can retain structure.
- Can be installed on as many devices as desired.
- Works offline after download and license activation.
Limits
- A free Canva account is required to use Affinity.
- Canva premium is required for Canva AI tools.
- The iPad version has no announced release date.
- Some features require internet access.
Who it suits
Affinity suits individuals who need vector, pixel-editing and page-layout tools in a desktop app. It may also suit users working with supported design-file formats or Canva and Cavalry workflows.
Verdict
Affinity offers three creative toolsets in a free desktop app for Windows and macOS. Users should account for the Canva account requirement and the online needs of selected features.
Where Specifiction places it
- Vector Graphics Software#6 of 518.8
- AI Photo Editors#16 of 978.8
- Desktop Publishing Software#5 of 308.7
- Graphic Design Software#36 of 1508.8
- Design tools#36 of 1468.8
- Photo editors#32 of 978.5
- Designing Solutions#12 of 298.6