Improved handling of templates, tracing, text and layers along with new table support, but ultimately X4 disappoints

A new interface, smart albums, guided editing and photo merging keep Photoshop Elements ahead of the pack

With Web Standard/Premium, Design Premium AND Macromedia’s products now absorbed into CS3, choosing the right suite is EASY.

Modern and efficient conversion to WMV with ahead-of-the-curve Silverlight capabilities

Piranesi gets the major overhaul of interface and tools that its extraordinary creative power deserves

Piranesi gets the major overhaul of interface and tools that its extraordinary creative power deserves

Improved interface and drawing capabilities, new photo matching and hand-drawn effects – and it’s still free

A new interface, drawing engine and programming language, but surprisingly little new power.

An improved working environment and ground-breaking colour handling make Illustrator fresher than ever.

Photoshop moves beyond photo editing to conquer completely new territory.

Non-destructive image processing and creative filters feature in this comprehensive upgrade to the market leader.

New effects enable richer design results, while a host of other improvements boost productivity.

Powerful new versions of InDesign, Photoshop and Illustrator, and now Acrobat 8 Professional too.

A questionable interface redesign and greater-than-ever complexity lead to a half-baked feeling.

Improved interface, object and layer handling, plus integrated 3D painting add greatly to power, usability and value

New multiple page support and improved text handling, but the program’s main strength remains its underlying speed.

Improved media handling, Flash video support and greater interactivity see Captivate extend into new areas of training.

Microsoft finally recognises that web authoring needs a standards-compliant tool, albeit on its own terms.

New realism for bristled brushes and automatic painting that approaches manual quality give Painter X an edge.

A wide range of power, but too old-fashioned and confusing for most users.