Understanding the Difference Between Adobe Illustrator CC and CS6 for Graphic Designers

Introduction

Adobe Illustrator is a versatile and powerful tool for graphic designers, offering a range of features to create vector graphics, logos, and illustrations. However, with the evolution of software, it's essential to understand the differences between the latest version, Illustrator CC, and the older version, Illustrator CS6. In this article, we will explore the key differences between these two versions, helping designers and professionals make an informed decision based on their needs.

Key Differences Between Adobe Illustrator CC and CS6

1. Subscription vs. Perpetual License

Adobe Illustrator CC:

tAvailable through a subscription model as part of Adobe Creative Cloud. tUsers pay a monthly or annual fee to access the software and receive regular updates.

Adobe Illustrator CS6:

tSold as a perpetual license, meaning users pay a one-time fee to own the software. tUsers do not receive updates beyond the last version released, locking them into an older feature set.

2. Updates and Features

Adobe Illustrator CC: Continuously updated with new features and improvements.

tUsers benefit from the latest tools, performance enhancements, and bug fixes. tRegular updates ensure that the software stays relevant and compatible with the latest operating systems.

Adobe Illustrator CS6: Belongs to the last major release of the Creative Suite line.

tThough it has robust features, it does not receive updates, meaning users miss out on newer functionality introduced in later versions. tThe software becomes less compatible with newer operating systems and devices without updates.

3. Cloud Integration

Adobe Illustrator CC: Strong integration with Adobe Creative Cloud services.

tCloud storage: Store and access your projects from anywhere, anytime. tCollaborative tools: Work together with team members in real-time. tAccess to Adobe Fonts and other resources: Expand your design possibilities with a wide range of fonts and templates.

Adobe Illustrator CS6: Limited cloud features, no built-in cloud services or access to online resources.

4. User Interface and Performance

Adobe Illustrator CC: Improved user interface with modern design elements and better performance optimization for newer operating systems.

tThe interface is more responsive and compatible with the latest OS updates. tBetter performance ensures a smoother and more efficient design workflow.

Adobe Illustrator CS6: While it has a solid interface, it may not be as responsive or compatible with the latest OS updates.

5. Advanced Features

Adobe Illustrator CC: Includes advanced features such as:

tReal-time collaboration, allowing teams to work together in real-time. tEnhanced image tracing for better vectorization of raster images. tNew tools for working with graphics, such as live shapes and direct selection tools.

Adobe Illustrator CS6: Lacks many of the newer features found in CC, such as:

tThe updated Creative Cloud libraries for easy access to assets and templates. tLive shapes tools for creating and manipulating shapes more efficiently.

Summary

In summary, Adobe Illustrator CC offers a more flexible and feature-rich experience due to its subscription model, continuous updates, and cloud integration. Adobe Illustrator CS6, being a standalone version, lacks these ongoing enhancements and modern capabilities.

Users should consider their needs, such as budget and the importance of having the latest features, when choosing between the two.

This article aims to provide a clear understanding of the differences between Adobe Illustrator CC and CS6, enabling designers to make the best choice for their workflow and projects.