Adobe Illustrator CS6 vs CC: Detailed Comparison

Adobe Illustrator has been a go-to vector graphics editor for creative professionals for many years. With the release of Adobe Illustrator Creative Suite 6 (CS6) and the subsequent Creative Cloud (CC) version, users faced a pivotal decision – to stick with the reliable CS6 or embrace the subscription-based CC. Which side you land on in the Adobe Illustrator CS6 vs CC debate depends on your preferences and requirements.   

According to Adobe,  Adobe Stock offers more than 200 million photos, 115 million vectors and illustrations, and over 900000 free resources for its users to utilise. With such a rich resource base, it is only natural for people to want the best version of Illustrator to use.  In this blog, we'll explore the similarities and differences between Adobe Illustrator CS6 vs CC, enabling you to make an informed choice. 

Table of Contents 

1) What is Adobe Illustrator CS6? 

2) What is Adobe CC?

3) Adobe Illustrator CS6 vs CC 

   a) User Interface and Accessibility 

   b) Pricing Model 

   c) Features and Updates 

   d) Performance and Stability 

   e) Cloud integration and Collaboration 

   f) Supports and Updates 

4) Conclusion 

What is Adobe Illustrator CS6 and Adobe Illustrator CC? 

Adobe Illustrator CS6 is a professional vector graphics editor developed by Adobe Systems, released in 2012. It enables designers and artists to create precise, scalable graphics suitable for print, web, and multimedia projects. Despite being an older version, CS6 boasts a comprehensive set of tools and advanced drawing capabilities that allow users to produce high-quality illustrations, logos, icons, and artwork with exceptional precision and creativity. The software integrates seamlessly with other Adobe products, enhancing workflow efficiency.

CS6 supports multiple file formats, making it versatile for various design needs. It also offers powerful typography features, enabling detailed and creative text manipulation. However, it is important to note that as of 2024, Illustrator CS6 lacks the latest updates and features present in newer versions of the software. Users seeking the most current tools and capabilities might consider upgrading to a more recent version to benefit from Adobe's latest advancements in vector graphics editing technology.
 

What is Adobe CC?

Adobe CC, part of Adobe Systems' Creative Cloud suite, is a professional vector graphics software introduced in 2013. "CC" denotes Creative Cloud, reflecting its subscription-based model. Illustrator CC provides designers and artists with advanced tools to create precise, scalable artwork for print, web, and multimedia projects. Its extensive features include pen tools, gradients, brushes, and powerful typography capabilities, allowing seamless creation of illustrations, logos, icons, and detailed text designs.

As a Creative Cloud application, Illustrator offers users the advantage of regular updates, ensuring access to the latest tools and features. This keeps the software at the cutting edge of design technology. Additionally, Illustrator on CC supports seamless integration with other Adobe products, enhancing workflow efficiency and enabling collaborative design efforts. Whether working on individual projects or within a team, Illustrator on CC provides the tools and connectivity needed to produce high-quality, professional graphics with ease and precision.

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Adobe Illustrator CS6 vs CC

Let's look at an in-depth category-wise comparison of Adobe Illustrator CS6 and Illustrator CC.

1) User Interface and Accessibility 

The user interface of any software plays a vital role in determining the overall user experience. When comparing Adobe Illustrator CS6 and CC, the user interface and accessibility are crucial aspects that can influence the choice between the two versions. 

Adobe Illustrator CS6 presents a familiar and straightforward interface that has been widely praised for its simplicity and ease of use. Seasoned users who have been using Illustrator for years find comfort in the familiar layout and tool arrangement. The clean design allows users to focus on their creative process without distractions. The traditional light mode interface, with its bright colour scheme, makes it easy on the eyes during long design sessions. 

On the other hand, Adobe Illustrator CC takes the user interface to a new level of customisability and modernity. One of the standout features of CC is the customisable toolbar, which empowers users to arrange their most frequently used tools according to their individual workflow preferences. This enhancement streamlines the design process and increases productivity. Additionally, Illustrator CC introduces a dark mode option, catering to users who prefer a more subdued interface that reduces eye strain, especially when working in low-light conditions. 

Furthermore, CC's interface also boasts improved High Dots Per Inch (HiDPI) and Retina Display support, enhancing the visual clarity and sharpness on high-resolution screens. This ensures that designers can see every detail of their artwork accurately, even on the latest high-definition displays. 

2) Pricing Model 

The pricing model is a critical factor that significantly differentiates Adobe Illustrator CS6 from CC. CS6 operates on a traditional one-time purchase model, where users pay a fixed price to own the software outright, granting them a perpetual license. This approach was popular among users who preferred a one-and-done payment structure and had no desire for regular updates or additional features. 

On the other hand, Adobe Illustrator CC adopts a subscription-based model, where users pay a recurring fee, typically on a monthly or annual basis, to access the software and its full range of features. This subscription grants users continuous access to the latest version of Illustrator, along with regular updates and bug fixes. Additionally, the CC subscription includes access to other Adobe Creative Cloud applications, such as Photoshop, InDesign, and Premiere Pro, making it an attractive package for those who require a suite of creative tools. 

While the upfront cost of CS6 may seem appealing, the subscription model of CC offers certain advantages. For instance, it ensures users always have access to the most up-to-date features and improvements without the need for additional purchases or upgrades. Furthermore, the subscription approach often lowers the barrier to entry, making professional-grade software more accessible to students, freelancers, and small businesses who might have found the one-time purchase cost prohibitive. 

3) Features and Updates 

Adobe Illustrator CC introduces a plethora of new features and updates that set it apart from its CS6 predecessor. These enhancements are designed to empower users with greater creative freedom and efficiency. One standout feature in CC is the Puppet Warp tool, an innovative addition that enables users to easily manipulate and distort artwork. This tool is particularly useful for creating dynamic illustrations and adjusting the positioning of elements within a design. 

Another exciting feature is the Image Trace function, allowing users to convert raster images into editable vectors seamlessly. This feature streamlines the process of transforming hand-drawn sketches or scanned artwork into scalable and editable vector graphics, saving time and effort while preserving the original quality. 

Moreover, Adobe Illustrator CC offers improved integration with other Creative Cloud applications, fostering a more interconnected design ecosystem. Users can effortlessly switch between Illustrator and other Adobe tools like Photoshop or InDesign, ensuring a smooth and cohesive workflow. This level of integration empowers designers to combine different creative elements seamlessly, unlocking new possibilities for artistic expression. 

Additionally, Adobe frequently releases updates to enhance the software's performance and introduce new functionalities. These updates are delivered directly through the Creative Cloud, meaning CC users always have access to the latest tools and improvements. The continuous improvement cycle ensures that Illustrator CC stays relevant and future-proof, keeping users on the cutting edge of design capabilities. 

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4) Performance and Stability 

Performance and stability are crucial considerations when choosing between Adobe Illustrator CS6 and CC. Adobe CC is optimised for modern hardware, enhancing overall performance. Its design leverages multi-core processors and high-performance graphics cards, enabling it to handle complex projects and large files more efficiently. This results in a smoother, more responsive experience, particularly beneficial for professional designers working on intricate illustrations, large print designs, or detailed vector artwork.

In contrast, Illustrator CS6, though still powerful, may face limitations on older hardware or systems with lower specifications. As technology advances, newer software versions are optimised to exploit the latest developments, potentially leaving CS6 users with reduced performance and longer rendering times.

Stability is equally vital in a design application, especially for time-sensitive projects or intricate artwork. Adobe CC benefits from continuous updates and bug fixes, ensuring a stable and reliable environment. Adobe’s development team actively addresses user-reported issues, delivering prompt resolutions and enhancing overall performance and stability.

Conversely, Illustrator CS6 receives fewer updates and support, which can lead to stability issues that disrupt the creative workflow. Users may encounter compatibility problems with newer Operating Systems or other software, and without regular updates, resolving these issues becomes more challenging.

5) Cloud integration and Collaboration 

Cloud integration and collaboration are key features that set Adobe CC apart from its predecessor, CS6, transforming the design process for modern creatives. Adobe CC allows users to save projects directly to Adobe Creative Cloud, providing easy access from any device with an internet connection. This eliminates the need for local backups and ensures your work is safe, even if your primary device fails.

The cloud-based approach also enhances collaboration among designers, teams, and clients. Multiple users can access the same project simultaneously, making it easy to collaborate on intricate designs. This is especially valuable for remote teams, freelancers, and clients in different locations. Collaborators can share feedback, make real-time edits, and maintain version control, improving workflows and reducing communication gaps.

Additionally, Adobe Creative Cloud integrates smoothly with other Adobe applications like Photoshop, InDesign, and XD. This allows designers to transfer projects seamlessly between software, streamlining the design process and encouraging cross-functional creativity. Sharing design assets across applications helps create consistent branding and cohesive design experiences.

6) Support and Updates 

Support and updates are crucial when choosing between Adobe Illustrator CS6 and CC, as the level of ongoing maintenance and enhancements differs significantly. Adobe CC users benefit from regular updates, including bug fixes, performance optimisations, and new features. This ensures users always have access to the latest tools and improvements, enhancing their overall design experience. With a subscription-based model, Adobe is incentivised to continuously invest in developing Adobe CC, resulting in a more refined and robust product over time.

In contrast, Adobe Illustrator CS6 users face limitations regarding updates. While Adobe does provide support, the frequency and extent of updates are limited compared to CC. Updates for CS6 mainly focus on critical bug fixes and security patches rather than new features or performance enhancements. As technology advances and new design trends emerge, CS6 users may find themselves at a disadvantage without access to the latest tools available in CC.

Moreover, support for older versions like CS6 may gradually decrease as Adobe prioritises newer releases. This may potentially lead to compatibility issues with newer Operating Systems, hardware, or other software.

Conclusion 

Ultimately, the choice between Adobe Illustrator CS6 VS CC depends on your specific requirements, budget, and willingness to embrace a subscription-based model. While CS6 may suffice for occasional users or those who prefer a one-time purchase, Illustrator on CC offers a wealth of cutting-edge features, cloud integration, and continuous updates, making it an enticing option for design professionals and teams.  

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