VSCO vs Procreate: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between VSCO and Procreate 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:
VSCO
Elevate your photos and videos with powerful editing tools and a creative community.
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need image editing features specifically
- • Advanced photo and video editing on mobile.
- • Extensive library of film-inspired presets.
Procreate
Digital illustration app for iPad
Best for you if:
- • You need graphic design features specifically
- • Procreate is a digital illustration app for iPad artists and designers
- • It provides professional brushes, layers, and animation in a native app
| At a Glance |  VSCO |  Procreate |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | $5.99/one-timeProcreate Pocket (iPhone) |
Best For | Image Editing | Graphic Design |
Rating | - | 4.8/5 |
Free plan | Yes | No |
Choose VSCO or Procreate?
Choose VSCO if
Elevate your photos and videos with powerful editing tools and a creative community.
- High-quality, professional-grade filters and presets.
- Intuitive and user-friendly interface.
- Powerful manual adjustment tools for fine-tuning.
- You want a free tier before you commit
- Your work is image editing-shaped, not graphic design-shaped
Choose Procreate if
Digital illustration app for iPad
- Best iPad drawing app
- One-time purchase
- Professional features
- Your work is graphic design-shaped, not image editing-shaped
| Feature | VSCO | Procreate |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | ★4.8/5 198 reviews |
| Categories | Image EditingVideo Editing | Graphic DesignUI/UX Design |
In-Depth Analysis
VSCO
Elevate your photos and videos with powerful editing tools and a creative community.
Strengths
- +High-quality, professional-grade filters and presets.
- +Intuitive and user-friendly interface.
- +Powerful manual adjustment tools for fine-tuning.
- +Strong emphasis on aesthetic and artistic expression.
- +Active and inspiring creative community.
Weaknesses
- -Many advanced features are locked behind a paid subscription (VSCO Membership).
- -The community aspect can sometimes feel less engaging than other social platforms.
- -Can be overwhelming for complete beginners due to the sheer number of options.
Key features
Procreate
Digital illustration app for iPad
Strengths
- +Best iPad drawing app
- +One-time purchase
- +Professional features
- +Great brushes
- +Good performance
Weaknesses
- -iPad only
- -Learning curve
- -No subscription perks
- -Limited animation
- -Single-page focus
Key features
Pricing: VSCO vs Procreate
| Plan | VSCO | Procreate |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | N/A | $12.99 one-time Procreate (iPad) |
| Tier 2 | N/A | $5.99 one-time Procreate Pocket (iPhone) |
| Tier 3 | N/A | $12.99 one-time Procreate Dreams |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on VSCO pricing and Procreate pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
VSCO has a free tier. Procreate is paid only.
Go with: VSCO
Want the highest-rated option?
Procreate is rated 4.8/5. VSCO has no ratings yet.
Go with: Procreate
Value user reviews?
VSCO: no ratings yet. Procreate: 198 reviews (4.8/5).
Go with: Procreate
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
VSCO is freemium. Procreate is paid. VSCO lets you start free.
What's your use case?
VSCO is a image editing tool. Procreate is in graphic design. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Procreate is rated 4.8/5; VSCO has no ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
Procreate
- Our pick for this comparison
VSCO
- Has a free tier
- Better fit for image editing
The Bottom Line
Procreate is our pick. VSCO has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is VSCO or Procreate better?
Procreate is rated in our evaluation. VSCO is freemium and Procreate is paid.
What are VSCO and Procreate used for?
VSCO: Elevate your photos and videos with powerful editing tools and a creative community.. Procreate: Digital illustration app for iPad.
What does VSCO cost vs Procreate?
VSCO is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Procreate is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.