CorelDraw Graphics Suite 12 review

CorelDraw has been the leading vector graphics program for well over a decade.

While version 12's new features reaffirm its market-leading position, the Graphics Suite, which adds bitmap editing and web animation tools, adds up to an unbeatable package for graphic designers.

Considering the scope of CorelDraw its interface is remarkably clean and easy to use. Numerous dockable panels allow you to customise the screen layout to suit your working style, and the toolbar is neatly organised into logical groups. However, its real strength lies in the quality of its results. CorelDraw's basic curve and node editing is as slick as ever and is joined by a host of other powerful tools. 3D Extrude allows you to create 3D-perspective objects with little effort. You can add drop shadows or set transparency options. There are blends, contour effects, interactive distortions and even a decent set of bitmap effects.

Version 12 also adds tools that make using the software faster. The Smart Drawing tool allows you to draw freehand on the page with the software recognising and tidying your efforts into neat geometric shapes. Dynamic guides speed up the alignment of objects. It displays temporary guides as the object you're creating comes into alignment with others on the page and also displays the distance between them, all without you wrestling with menus and dialog boxes.

Photo-Paint is a bitmap editor that's up to the demands of professional use, while RAVE produces slick animations in Flash format using CorelDraw's vector-editing tools and a keyframe-based timeline. With professional export options including PDF and colour separations, CorelDraw Graphics Suite is an incredibly sophisticated package that is priced lower than less capable rival products.

EXPERT'S VERDICT

"With unbeatable drawing tools, first-class bitmap editing and more, it's everything graphic designers need at a fantastic price."

EDITOR'S VERDICT

"Still the best drawing program on the PC."