Adobe Color vs Khroma: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Adobe Color and Khroma 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.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Adobe Color
Create and explore color palettes for design projects
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.4/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • You need color tools features specifically
- • Free color palette generator and explorer tool accessible via web browser
- • Create harmonious color schemes using color theory rules and extract palettes from images
Khroma
AI color palette generator
Best for you if:
- • You need ai image generation features specifically
- • Khroma is an AI color palette generator that learns your color preferences
- • It creates personalized color combinations based on your selected favorites
| At a Glance |  Khroma | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | Color Tools | AI Image Generation |
Rating | 84/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | Adobe Color | Khroma |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Color ToolsGraphic Design | AI Image GenerationColor Tools |
Understanding the Differences
Both Adobe Color and Khroma solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Adobe Color positions itself as "create and explore color palettes for design projects" while Khromafocuses on "ai color palette generator". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Adobe Color
Adobe Color makes sense if you're looking for a completely free solution. With a score of 84/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose Khroma
Khroma is worth considering if you need a free tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Adobe Color lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Adobe Color
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Adobe Color handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: Adobe Color
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Both have enterprise tiers—compare their security features.
We'd pick: Adobe Color
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Nothing at all? Adobe Color is completely free.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Adobe Color higher (84/100). But the community has upvoted Khroma more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Adobe Color Does Better
- Higher overall score (84/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Khroma If
- You need a completely free solution
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Adobe Color (84/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Adobe Color scores higher in our analysis, but Khroma might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Adobe Color or Khroma better?
Based on our analysis, Adobe Color scores higher with 84/100. Adobe Color isfree while Khroma is free. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Adobe Color to Khroma easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Adobe Color and Khroma offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Adobe Color is completely free.Khroma is completely free. Visit their websites for current trial offers.