123RF vs Shutterstock: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between 123RF and Shutterstock comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
123RF
Access millions of royalty-free stock photos, vectors, videos, audio, and fonts with AI tools.
Best for you if:
- • You need stock assets features specifically
- • Offers over 240 million royalty-free stock assets including photos, vectors, videos, audio, and fonts.
- • Includes an AI Suite with tools for image generation, enhancement, and manipulation.
Shutterstock
Stock images, photos, and videos
Best for you if:
- • You need graphic design features specifically
- • Stock photo marketplace
- • Photos, videos, and music
| At a Glance |  123RF |  Shutterstock |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Stock Assets | Graphic Design |
Rating | —/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | 123RF | Shutterstock |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | — | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Stock AssetsAI Image Generation | Graphic DesignStock Assets |
How 123RF and Shutterstock Compare
123RF
Access millions of royalty-free stock photos, vectors, videos, audio, and fonts with AI tools.
Paid
Shutterstock
Stock images, photos, and videos
Paid
123RF is a stock assets tool. Shutterstock is in graphic design.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: 123RF
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has been rated yet.
Go with: 123RF
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: 123RF
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are paid. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
123RF is a stock assets tool. Shutterstock is in graphic design. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
123RF
- Our pick for this comparison
Shutterstock
- Better fit for graphic design
The Bottom Line
123RF is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 123RF or Shutterstock better?
123RF scores high/100 in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are 123RF and Shutterstock used for?
123RF: Access millions of royalty-free stock photos, vectors, videos, audio, and fonts with AI tools.. Shutterstock: Stock images, photos, and videos.
What does 123RF cost vs Shutterstock?
123RF is a paid tool. Shutterstock is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.