Inkscape
Free vector graphics editor that works natively with SVG, used for logos, illustrations, diagrams and typography.
Draw logos, clip art and diagrams that stay sharp at any size, with no subscription.
Inkscape is a free vector graphics editor that uses the standard SVG format as its main file type. It suits designers, illustrators and technical people who need scalable artwork without paying for Illustrator.
What it is
Inkscape lets you draw shapes, paths and text, then edit them with node editing, layers and path operations. It imports formats like EPS, PostScript, JPEG, PNG, BMP and TIFF and exports PNG plus several vector formats. Its stated aim is a W3C-compliant SVG and CSS2 drawing tool with a light core and extensions.
Who it's for
It suits logo work, illustration, cartoons, signage and flowcharts where sharp output at any size matters. It is a weaker fit if your team needs real-time shared editing or a photo-retouching tool, since it is a single-user vector editor.
Key features
Native SVG editing
SVG is the main format, so files open in web browsers and many other applications.
Node and path tools
Node editing and complex path operations let you reshape artwork precisely.
Text on path
Text can follow a curve, which suits badges, logos and typography work.
SVG XML editor
You can edit the underlying XML of a drawing directly.
Clones and markers
Linked clones, markers, gradients and alpha blending are part of the supported SVG features.
Extension-based core
The project keeps a lightweight core and adds capabilities through extensions.
Up and running in 3 steps
Our honest verdict
What's great
- SVG is its main format, so output opens in browsers and many other programs without conversion.
- It lets you edit the SVG XML directly, which developers and web designers can use for precise control.
- It imports EPS, PostScript and common bitmap formats, helping when you inherit mixed source files.
- Binaries are covered by GPL-3.0-or-later, so there are no seat licences or subscription to manage.
Where it falls short
- It is a desktop vector editor only; the README describes no real-time collaboration or cloud workspace.
- The README describes no built-in generative AI features, so any AI-assisted work happens outside Inkscape.
- Its toolset is deep (node editing, XML editor, path operations), so expect a learning curve if you come from simple drag-and-drop tools.
- The license page says libraries in src/3rdparty carry LGPL or MPL terms and a few files are dual-licensed, which matters if you redistribute modified builds.
Pricing & license
Inkscape is free under its GPL licence and the README lists no paid plan. The only cost is your own time and computer.
Open remote AI-training roles
767 open remote AI-training roles, updated November 14, 2026; most pay $20–$175 an hour. Zekai lists them free; the application goes to the employer’s platform.
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FAQ
What file format does Inkscape use?
The README says it uses the standardized SVG file format as its main format, which many applications and web browsers support.
What can I import and export?
It imports formats like EPS, PostScript, JPEG, PNG, BMP and TIFF, and exports PNG as well as several vector formats.
What licence is it under?
Most source code is GPL version 2 or later, and the license page says the complete binaries are covered by GPL version 3 or later.
