Coolors vs Shutterstock: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Coolors 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:
Coolors
Color palette generator and design tool
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need ui/ux design features specifically
- • Coolors is a color palette generator that helps designers create beautiful color schemes
- • It generates harmonious palettes, extracts colors from images, and exports to any format
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 | ||
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | UI/UX Design | Graphic Design |
Rating | 86/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Coolors | Shutterstock |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 86 | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | UI/UX DesignGraphic Design | Graphic DesignStock Assets |
How Coolors and Shutterstock Compare
Coolors
Color palette generator and design tool
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Shutterstock
Stock images, photos, and videos
Paid
Coolors is a ui/ux design tool. Shutterstock is in graphic design.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Coolors has a free tier. Shutterstock is paid only.
Go with: Coolors
Want the highest-rated option?
Coolors scores 86/100. Shutterstock is unrated.
Go with: Coolors
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Coolors
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Coolors is freemium. Shutterstock is paid. Coolors lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Coolors is a ui/ux design 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
Coolors
- Higher score: 86/100 vs unrated
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Shutterstock
- Better fit for graphic design
The Bottom Line
Coolors (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Coolors or Shutterstock better?
Coolors scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Coolors is freemium and Shutterstock is paid.
What are Coolors and Shutterstock used for?
Coolors: Color palette generator and design tool. Shutterstock: Stock images, photos, and videos.
What does Coolors cost vs Shutterstock?
Coolors is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Shutterstock is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.

