Creative Market vs Shutterstock: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Creative Market 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:
Creative Market
Discover and download high-quality design assets created by independent artists worldwide.
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • Marketplace for digital design assets
- • Sells fonts, graphics, themes, photos, etc.
Shutterstock
Stock images, photos, and videos
Best for you if:
- • Stock photo marketplace
- • Photos, videos, and music
| At a Glance |  Creative Market |  Shutterstock |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Graphic Design | Graphic Design |
Rating | —/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Creative Market | Shutterstock |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | — | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Graphic DesignIcon Libraries | Graphic DesignStock Assets |
How Creative Market and Shutterstock Compare
Creative Market
Discover and download high-quality design assets created by independent artists worldwide.
Free tier available
Shutterstock
Stock images, photos, and videos
Paid
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Creative Market has a free tier. Shutterstock is paid only.
Go with: Creative Market
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has been rated yet.
Go with: Creative Market
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Creative Market
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Creative Market is freemium. Shutterstock is paid. Creative Market lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are graphic design tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Creative Market
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Shutterstock
The Bottom Line
Creative Market is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Creative Market or Shutterstock better?
Creative Market scores high/100 in our evaluation. Creative Market is freemium and Shutterstock is paid.
What are Creative Market and Shutterstock used for?
Creative Market: Discover and download high-quality design assets created by independent artists worldwide.. Shutterstock: Stock images, photos, and videos.
What does Creative Market cost vs Shutterstock?
Creative Market is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Shutterstock is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.