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About Inkscape

Inkscape is a free, open-source vector graphics editor and the best-known free alternative to Adobe Illustrator and CorelDRAW. It is used for logos, icons, illustrations, diagrams, web graphics and print designs, and it has been developed by its community for more than 20 years.

Inkscape uses the open SVG format, which web browsers and many programs support. It can also import Adobe Illustrator (AI) and CorelDRAW (CDR) files, as well as PDF and EPS, and export to PDF, PNG, EPS, DXF and more. Complex AI files may lose some formatting when imported.

Inkscape is free for personal and commercial work and runs on Windows 10/11 (64-bit), Mac and Linux.

Key features

Vector drawingPen, shape, calligraphy and text tools
SVG nativeOpen, standard format for web and print
Import AI and CDROpen Illustrator and CorelDRAW files
ExportPDF, PNG, EPS, DXF, EMF and more
Trace bitmapTurn pictures into vectors
ExtensionsAdd features with add-ons
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License and price

License type
Free · open source

System requirements

Operating system
Windows, macOS, Linux
Windows
Windows 10 or 11, 64-bit (Windows 7/8: Inkscape 1.2.2)

Good and keep in mind

Good

  • Completely free, also for commercial work
  • Opens Illustrator and CorelDRAW files
  • Runs on Windows, Mac and Linux

Keep in mind

  • Complex Illustrator files may lose some formatting
  • Can be slow with very large drawings
  • The interface differs from Illustrator, so it takes some getting used to

Frequently asked questions

Is Inkscape really free?
Yes. Inkscape is free and open source, also for commercial work, with no subscription or trial limits.
Can Inkscape open Illustrator (AI) and CorelDRAW (CDR) files?
Yes, it can import AI and CDR files. Very complex files may lose some formatting; saving as PDF or SVG in the original program gives the best results.
Is Inkscape good enough for professional work?
Yes. Many designers use it professionally for logos, illustrations and print, even though Illustrator has some more advanced features.

Other free alternatives to CorelDRAW Graphics Suite

AffinityVector design, photo editing and layout in one app · Windows, macOSFree (Canva account)
GUIDEBest Free Alternatives to CorelDRAWFree alternatives to CorelDRAW for vector design, signs and print: Inkscape (opens CDR files) and Affinity, for Windows, Mac and Linux.

In our guides

GUIDEBest Free Alternatives to CorelDRAWFree alternatives to CorelDRAW for vector design, signs and print: Inkscape (opens CDR files) and Affinity, for Windows, Mac and Linux.GUIDEBest Free Alternatives to Adobe IllustratorInkscape and Affinity compared: the best free alternatives to Adobe Illustrator for logos, icons and vector illustrations on Windows, Mac and Linux.