Varial vs Affinity. Pro tools, plus the rest of the job.
Affinity is a strong desktop app for vector, photo, and layout. Varial covers that ground and adds UI design, live collaboration, motion, video, and 3D.
VarialAffinity
Vector, booleans, and brushesYesYes
Photo editing with layers and masksYesYes
Page layout and long documentsYesYes
Vector constraints and dimensionsYesNo
Live collaboration and commentsYesNo
Components, variants, and auto layoutYesNo
Prototypes and slidesYesNo
Motion and video editingYesNo
3D modeling and paintingYesNo
Client review and approvalsYesNo
Based on public product information, checked October 2026. Something out of date? Tell us.
Where Affinity shines.
We think Affinity is a good product. If these matter most to you, it may be the better fit.
- Free to download and use
- Deep photo and print tools
- Fast, native desktop app
Questions? Answers.
Can I open my Photoshop files?
Yes. Varial imports PSD and PSB with layers, plus SVG and common image formats.
Does Varial work offline?
Yes. Files save to your device and open without a connection.
Why pay when Affinity is free?
If you only need vector, photo, and print, Affinity is a great choice. Varial is for work that also needs UI, motion, video, 3D, or a team and client in the loop.