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Inkscape

A vector graphics editor for logos, illustrations and diagrams, built on the open SVG format.

Instead of Adobe Illustrator

M · ToolOpen sourceFreeNo accountPlain files
inkscape.org
Screenshot of the Inkscape website

Screenshot from inkscape.org, taken 2026-10-23, shown to help you recognise the tool. It belongs to its maker. Ask us to remove it.

Open an Inkscape drawing in a text editor and it reads as text, because SVG, its native format, is plain text, so what you draw opens in browsers, code editors and plenty of other tools. Inkscape is a free and open-source vector editor for logos, illustrations and diagrams that also imports and exports AI, EPS, PDF and PNG files. Many authors develop it, each keeping their own copyright, and it belongs to the Software Freedom Conservancy, a US nonprofit. It runs on Windows, Mac and Linux.

Inkscape scores a 5 on lock-in, power and longevity, a 4 on footprint and delivery and a 3 on self-direction.

It is a strong answer to Illustrator for logos, icons and illustration. The interface rewards patience and feels less polished than Adobe's, so expect a learning curve.

The file you make is plain text you could read in a decade.

    What stands out

  • A vector editor built on the open SVG format
  • Imports and exports AI, EPS, PDF and PNG
  • Belongs to the Software Freedom Conservancy, a US nonprofit
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For dark backgrounds, use inkscape-dark.svg in place of inkscape-light.svg.

For comparison, we also reviewed Adobe Creative Cloud (12/30) as a benchmark.

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