Palette Maker vs Adobe Color: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Palette Maker and Adobe Color 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:
Palette Maker
Generate AI-powered color palettes and preview them live on diverse design examples.
Best for you if:
- • Generates AI-powered color palettes.
- • Allows live preview of palettes on various design examples (logos, UI/UX, posters).
Adobe Color
Color wheel and palette tool
Best for you if:
- • You need color wheel and palette tool
- • You want a completely free tool
| At a Glance | ||
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | Color Tools | Color Tools |
Rating | —/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Palette Maker | Adobe Color |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | — | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 180 |
| Categories | Color ToolsGraphic Design | Color ToolsGraphic Design |
Understanding the Differences
Both Palette Maker and Adobe Color solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Palette Maker positions itself as "generate ai-powered color palettes and preview them live on diverse design examples." while Adobe Colorfocuses on "color wheel and palette tool". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Palette Maker
Palette Maker makes sense if you're looking for a completely free solution.
When to Choose Adobe Color
Adobe Color is worth considering if you need a free tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Palette Maker lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Palette Maker
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Adobe Color is built for teams that are leveling up.
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: Palette Maker
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Nothing at all? Palette Maker 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 Palette Maker higher (/100). But the community has upvoted Adobe Color more (180 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Palette Maker Does Better
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Adobe Color 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 Palette Maker. But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Palette Maker scores higher in our analysis, but Adobe Color 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 Palette Maker or Adobe Color better?
Based on our analysis, Palette Maker scores higher with high/100. Palette Maker isfree while Adobe Color 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 Palette Maker to Adobe Color 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 Palette Maker and Adobe Color offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Palette Maker is completely free.Adobe Color is completely free. Visit their websites for current trial offers.