Adobe Illustrator has long been a go-to tool for designers, enabling them to craft stunning vector graphics, logos, and icons. However, its steep annual price tag of $239.88 can be prohibitive for those with limited budgets. If you’re in this boat, fear not, for there are numerous free and low-cost alternatives available that rival Illustrator in terms of features. In this article, we’ll delve into the top twelve alternatives to Adobe Illustrator, providing you with budget-friendly options to create beautiful designs.

How to Get Adobe Illustrator for Free

Before we dive into the alternatives, it’s worth noting that the only way to access Adobe Illustrator for free is through a 7-day trial. To do this, simply visit the Adobe Illustrator product page and click the ‘free trial’ button. Be cautious and download Illustrator solely from Adobe’s official website to avoid illegal sources that can compromise your computer’s security with viruses and spyware.

Why Opt for an Adobe Illustrator Alternative?

While Adobe Illustrator has maintained its industry-standard status, there are compelling reasons to consider alternative applications:

Affordability: Adobe Illustrator is part of the Adobe Creative Cloud suite, which involves a subscription and can be costly. All the alternatives listed here are either free, have lower subscription fees, or require a one-time purchase.
Accessibility: Illustrator, with its powerful feature set, can pose a steep learning curve for beginners. Conversely, some alternatives offer more intuitive interfaces that are easier for newcomers to grasp.
Performance: Adobe Illustrator, although feature-rich, can be resource-intensive and sluggish on older or less powerful devices. Alternatives may offer smoother performance on a wider range of hardware.
Specific Focus: Some design apps excel in specific areas. For instance, you might prefer an alternative that combines vector capabilities with superior photo editing features.
Open Source or Cross-Platform Options: Certain Illustrator alternatives are open-source, allowing users to customize and contribute to their development. Moreover, many are available across multiple platforms, facilitating seamless work across different operating systems.

In the end, the choice of a design tool comes down to your budget and personal preferences. We recommend trying out various tools to determine the one that best aligns with your needs. Without further ado, let’s explore these top free alternatives to Adobe Illustrator.

Best Free Adobe Illustrator Alternatives

1. Inkscape

Best for: Pro and semi-pro illustrators and web designers
Platform: Mac, Windows, Linux

Inkscape is a popular, open-source vector graphics editor that is widely used for creating and editing scalable vector graphics (SVG) and other vector-based image formats. It is a versatile and powerful tool for designers, artists, and anyone who needs to work with vector graphics. Here is some information about Inkscape and how it can be useful:

Open-Source Software: Inkscape is free and open-source software, which means it is available to anyone for download and use without any cost. This makes it an accessible option for individuals and organizations with limited budgets.
Cross-Platform: Inkscape is available for multiple operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it a versatile choice for users on different platforms.
Vector Graphics: Inkscape is primarily designed for creating and editing vector graphics. Vector graphics are composed of mathematical equations that define shapes, allowing them to be resized without loss of quality. This makes Inkscape ideal for tasks like logo design, illustrations, icons, and graphic design projects.
SVG Support: Inkscape’s native file format is SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics), which is an open standard for vector graphics on the web. SVG files are lightweight and can be easily used in web design, animations, and interactive graphics.
User-Friendly Interface: Inkscape features an intuitive user interface with tools and panels that are easy to navigate. It has a familiar layout for those who have experience with other graphic design software, making it relatively easy to learn.
Drawing Tools: Inkscape offers a wide range of drawing tools, including shapes, freehand drawing, text, and path editing. You can create complex illustrations with the Pen tool, Bezier curves, and various shapes like rectangles, ellipses, and polygons.
Extensions and Plugins: Inkscape has a powerful extension system that allows users to add new features and functionality through extensions and plugins. This extensibility enhances its capabilities and can be customized to suit specific needs.
Raster Image Editing: While Inkscape primarily deals with vector graphics, it also has some basic raster image editing capabilities. You can import raster images and perform tasks like resizing, cropping, and applying filters.
Export Options: Inkscape provides various export options, allowing you to save your artwork in different file formats, such as PNG, PDF, EPS, and more. This flexibility is essential for sharing and using your designs in various contexts.
Community and Support: Inkscape has an active and supportive user community. You can find tutorials, documentation, and forums online to help you learn and troubleshoot issues.
Scalability: One of the key advantages of vector graphics is their scalability. Inkscape allows you to create graphics that can be resized to any dimension without losing quality. This is particularly valuable for designs intended for print or responsive web design.

In summary, Inkscape is a versatile and valuable tool for creating vector graphics and illustrations. Its open-source nature, cross-platform availability, and user-friendly interface make it a popular choice for both beginners and experienced graphic designers. Whether you’re working on logos, icons, web graphics, or print materials, Inkscape can be a powerful addition to your toolkit.

2. GIMP

Best for: Advanced designers in need of powerful image manipulation
Platform: Mac, Windows, Linux

GIMP, which stands for GNU Image Manipulation Program, is a free and open-source raster graphics editor. It is a powerful alternative to commercial image editing software like Adobe Photoshop. GIMP is widely used for a variety of image manipulation and editing tasks. Here’s some information about GIMP and how it can be useful:

Open-Source Software: GIMP is free to download and use, and its open-source nature means that its source code is available for anyone to modify and distribute. This makes it accessible to a broad user base and encourages community contributions.
Cross-Platform: GIMP is available for multiple operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it a versatile choice for users on different platforms.
Raster Graphics Editing: GIMP is primarily designed for working with raster graphics, which are images composed of pixels. It’s well-suited for tasks like photo editing, retouching, and manipulation. You can perform various actions, such as cropping, resizing, color correction, and filters.
Layers and Masks: GIMP supports layers, allowing you to work on different elements of an image separately. Layers are essential for creating complex compositions and non-destructive editing. Masks enable you to control the visibility and transparency of different parts of an image.
Selection Tools: GIMP offers a wide range of selection tools, including rectangular and elliptical selections, freehand selection, and path-based selection. These tools are crucial for isolating and manipulating specific parts of an image.
Drawing and Painting: GIMP includes tools for drawing and painting, making it suitable for digital art creation. It provides brushes, pencils, and a range of painting options. You can also use pressure-sensitive tablets for more precise drawing.
Text Editing: GIMP allows you to add and manipulate text in your images. You can create text layers, apply various fonts, styles, and effects, and even add text along paths.
Advanced Filters and Effects: GIMP offers a wide variety of filters and effects to enhance your images. These include blurring, sharpening, noise reduction, and artistic filters. You can also create custom filters using the Script-Fu and Python-Fu scripting capabilities.
Extensible and Customizable: GIMP’s functionality can be extended through plugins and scripts. This means that you can customize GIMP to meet your specific needs by adding additional features and tools.
File Format Support: GIMP supports a broad range of file formats, including popular formats like JPEG, PNG, GIF, TIFF, and PSD (Adobe Photoshop’s format). It can also import and export PDF files and offers options for optimizing images for the web.
Community and Support: GIMP has an active user community, and there is a wealth of online tutorials, documentation, and forums available for learning and troubleshooting.
Free Alternative: GIMP is often seen as a cost-effective alternative to commercial image editing software. It provides many of the features found in paid software without the associated licensing fees.

In summary, GIMP is a versatile and powerful image editing tool that is useful for a wide range of tasks, including photo editing, digital art creation, graphic design, and more. Its open-source nature, extensive features, and cross-platform availability make it a valuable resource for individuals and professionals looking for a free and capable image editing solution.

3. Pixlr

Best for: Individuals working across different devices to create images
Platform: Windows, Mac, Web Browser, Mobile

Pixlr is a cloud-based image editing and graphic design software that offers a range of features for creating, editing, and enhancing images and graphics. It’s known for its user-friendly interface and accessibility. Here’s some information about Pixlr and how it can be useful:

Cloud-Based Platform: Pixlr operates entirely within a web browser, which means you don’t need to download or install any software. You can access it from any device with an internet connection, making it convenient for users who need to edit images on the go.
User-Friendly Interface: Pixlr features an intuitive and user-friendly interface that is relatively easy to navigate, even for those with little to no graphic design experience. It offers a straightforward layout with tools and features that are easy to understand.
Photo Editing: Pixlr provides a wide range of tools for editing photos, including cropping, resizing, rotating, adjusting brightness and contrast, and applying filters and effects. It’s suitable for basic to intermediate-level photo editing tasks.
Layers and Masks: Similar to professional image editing software like Adobe Photoshop, Pixlr supports layers and layer masks. This allows for advanced editing, compositing, and non-destructive editing of images.
Text Editing: You can add text to your images using various fonts, sizes, and styles in Pixlr. The software offers text editing capabilities that allow you to create posters, flyers, and other graphic designs with text elements.
Drawing and Painting: Pixlr includes drawing and painting tools, making it suitable for digital art creation. You can use brushes, pencils, and other tools to create custom artwork or annotations on your images.
Filters and Effects: Pixlr offers a variety of filters and effects that you can apply to your images, including vintage, artistic, and creative effects. This allows you to give your photos a unique and eye-catching look.
File Format Support: Pixlr supports popular image formats such as JPEG, PNG, GIF, and BMP. It also allows you to import and export PSD files (Adobe Photoshop’s format) and provides options for optimizing images for the web.
Templates and Design Assets: Pixlr provides access to a library of templates, stock photos, icons, and design assets that can help you quickly create graphics for social media, marketing materials, presentations, and more.
Free and Paid Versions: Pixlr offers both a free version with basic features and a paid version (Pixlr Pro) with additional functionality. The free version is quite capable for many common image editing tasks, while Pixlr Pro offers more advanced features and an ad-free experience.
Community and Tutorials: Pixlr has an active user community, and you can find tutorials and resources online to help you learn how to use the software effectively.
Cross-Platform Compatibility: Pixlr can be accessed and used on various devices, including desktop computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones, making it versatile and accessible for users on different platforms.

In summary, Pixlr is a useful and accessible image editing and graphic design tool, particularly for individuals and small businesses that need to perform basic to intermediate-level image editing and design tasks without the need for complex and expensive software. Its cloud-based nature, ease of use, and range of features make it a popular choice for quick and convenient image editing.

4. DesignEvo

Best for: Individuals starting a business in need of logo and asset design
Platform: Mac

DesignEvo is an online logo maker and graphic design tool that allows users to create professional-looking logos and graphics with ease. It’s a user-friendly and accessible platform, particularly useful for individuals and small businesses looking to design logos and visual assets for branding purposes. Here’s some information about DesignEvo and how it can be useful:

Logo Design Made Easy: DesignEvo simplifies the logo design process, making it accessible to individuals with little to no design experience. It provides a straightforward and intuitive interface that guides users through the logo creation process step by step.
Large Icon Library: DesignEvo offers a vast library of professionally designed icons, graphics, and shapes that users can choose from to build their logos. These icons cover a wide range of industries and themes, making it easy to find the right elements for your logo.
Customization Options: Users can customize their logos by adjusting colors, fonts, sizes, and alignments. DesignEvo provides various text and shape editing tools to help users create a unique logo that aligns with their brand’s identity.
Templates and Presets: DesignEvo offers a collection of logo templates and presets to jumpstart the design process. Users can select a template that matches their business or style and then customize it to make it their own.
Vector Graphics: Logos created with DesignEvo are vector-based, which means they can be scaled to any size without loss of quality. This is important for ensuring your logo looks great across different mediums, from business cards to billboards.
File Export Options: Once you’ve created your logo, DesignEvo allows you to export it in various file formats, including PNG, JPEG, and SVG. This flexibility ensures that your logo is ready for use in different contexts, from digital to print.
Free and Paid Versions: DesignEvo offers both free and paid plans. The free plan provides basic logo design functionality, while the paid plans offer more advanced features, such as high-resolution downloads, font uploads, and the ability to edit and re-download your logo later.
User-Friendly Interface: DesignEvo is designed to be user-friendly and accessible, making it a suitable choice for beginners and non-designers. The platform’s drag-and-drop interface and clear navigation make logo creation straightforward.
Brand Building: A well-designed logo is a crucial element of brand identity. DesignEvo helps users establish their brand’s visual identity by enabling them to create logos that reflect their brand’s personality, values, and mission.
Quick Turnaround: DesignEvo allows users to create logos relatively quickly. This can be especially useful for small businesses or individuals who need a logo on a tight timeline.
Support and Resources: DesignEvo provides tutorials and resources to help users get started and make the most of the platform. It also offers customer support to address any questions or issues.

In summary, DesignEvo is a useful online tool for logo design and basic graphic design needs. It’s a cost-effective and accessible solution for individuals and small businesses looking to create professional-looking logos and establish their brand identity without the need for extensive design skills or software.

5. Vectornator

Best for: Designers seeking a user-friendly tool for efficiency
Platform: iPad, Mac, iPhone

Vectornator is a vector graphic design software that is available for macOS, iPad, and iPhone. It is known for its user-friendly interface and a wide range of features that make it useful for various design and illustration tasks. Here’s some information about Vectornator and how it can be useful:

Cross-Platform: Vectornator is available on multiple Apple platforms, including macOS, iPad, and iPhone. This cross-platform compatibility allows users to work on their designs seamlessly across different devices.
Vector Graphics: Vectornator is primarily designed for creating and editing vector graphics. Vector graphics are composed of mathematical equations that define shapes, making them easily scalable without a loss of quality. This makes Vectornator ideal for tasks like logo design, illustrations, icons, and graphic design projects.
User-Friendly Interface: Vectornator features an intuitive and user-friendly interface that is designed to be easy to learn and navigate. It offers a streamlined workspace with essential tools and options, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced designers.
Drawing Tools: Vectornator provides a wide range of drawing tools, including the Pen tool for creating precise paths and shapes, as well as freehand drawing tools for more organic and creative artwork. It also includes tools for creating gradients, patterns, and more.
Typography: The software allows users to work with text and typography. You can add and format text, create text on a path, and apply various text styles and effects to enhance your designs.
Import and Export: Vectornator supports importing various file formats, including SVG, PDF, and popular raster image formats like PNG and JPEG. It also provides export options for sharing your designs in different formats, making it versatile for various design workflows.
Templates and Libraries: Vectornator offers a library of pre-made templates and assets, such as icons and illustrations. This can save time and help kickstart your design projects.
Real-Time Collaboration: Vectornator offers real-time collaboration features that allow multiple users to work on the same project simultaneously. This is particularly useful for design teams and collaborative projects.
Integration with Other Apps: Vectornator can integrate with other design and productivity apps on the Apple ecosystem, allowing for a seamless workflow and sharing of assets between applications.
Export for Print and Web: Vectornator provides options for exporting designs in formats suitable for both print and web use, ensuring that your designs maintain their quality in various contexts.
Support and Community: Vectornator has an active user community and offers support through tutorials, documentation, and user forums. This can be helpful for learning the software and troubleshooting any issues.
Free and Paid Versions: Vectornator offers both free and paid versions, making it accessible to a wide range of users. The paid version, Vectornator Pro, offers additional features and advanced capabilities.

In summary, Vectornator is a versatile vector graphic design software that is useful for a wide range of design tasks, from creating logos and illustrations to typography and graphic design projects. Its user-friendly interface, cross-platform availability, and integration with the Apple ecosystem make it a valuable tool for both casual users and professional designers looking for vector graphic design capabilities on Apple devices.

6. Figma

Best for: Designers in need of an all-in-one tool
Platform: Web Browser

Figma is a cloud-based design and prototyping tool that has gained popularity in recent years, particularly among designers, product managers, and teams working on web and app design projects. Figma offers a range of features that facilitate collaborative design and prototyping processes. Here’s some information about Figma and how it can be useful:

Cloud-Based Collaboration: Figma is entirely cloud-based, which means that designers and team members can access and work on design projects from anywhere with an internet connection. This cloud-based approach simplifies collaboration, as multiple users can work on the same design file simultaneously.
Cross-Platform Compatibility: Figma is available as both a web application and a desktop application for Windows and macOS, ensuring that designers can use it on their preferred operating system. Additionally, there are mobile apps for iOS and Android, allowing for design review and collaboration on mobile devices.
Real-Time Collaboration: One of Figma’s standout features is real-time collaboration. Multiple users can edit and comment on a design file simultaneously, making it easy for teams to work together, provide feedback, and iterate on designs in real time.
Vector Graphics: Figma is primarily focused on vector graphics, making it well-suited for designing user interfaces, icons, illustrations, and other vector-based assets. It provides tools for creating and editing shapes, paths, and text.
Design Components and Libraries: Figma allows you to create and reuse design components and libraries. Designers can create component libraries, which house reusable UI elements like buttons, icons, and navigation bars. This feature streamlines design consistency and updates across different parts of a project.
Prototyping: Figma includes interactive prototyping capabilities, allowing designers to create clickable prototypes and user flows. You can link different frames or artboards together to simulate user interactions and test the user experience.
Design Version Control: Figma automatically tracks design version history, making it easy to revert to previous iterations if needed. This feature helps maintain a history of design changes and ensures that nothing is lost during the collaborative design process.
Design Handoff: Figma simplifies the handoff process from design to development by providing features like design specifications, export options, and the ability to inspect design assets. Developers can easily access design assets and code snippets, making the transition from design to development smoother.
Plugins and Integrations: Figma supports a wide range of plugins and integrations with other design and collaboration tools. This extensibility allows users to enhance their workflow by integrating with services like Sketch, Adobe XD, Slack, and more.
User Testing and Feedback: Figma provides tools for user testing and feedback collection. You can share designs with stakeholders and users, gather comments and suggestions directly within the design file, and iterate based on feedback.
Security and Permissions: Figma offers various security features and permissions settings, ensuring that sensitive design files are protected, and access can be controlled at different levels for team members.
Free and Paid Versions: Figma offers a free version with basic features, making it accessible to individuals and small teams. Paid plans offer more advanced features and collaboration options, making it suitable for larger design teams and organizations.

In summary, Figma is a powerful cloud-based design and prototyping tool that facilitates collaboration, real-time editing, and efficient design workflows. Its focus on vector graphics, real-time collaboration, and design system management makes it a valuable resource for designers and teams working on digital product design and development projects.

7. Vectr

Best for: Novice designers with a low learning curve
Platform: Web Browser

Vectr is a free, web-based vector graphics editor that allows users to create and edit vector graphics directly in their web browsers. It is a user-friendly and accessible tool for individuals and small teams looking to design and work with vector-based graphics. Here’s some information about Vectr and how it can be useful:

Web-Based: Vectr is a browser-based application, which means you don’t need to download or install any software. You can access it from any device with an internet connection and a web browser, making it convenient for users on different platforms.
Vector Graphics: Vectr is designed specifically for creating and editing vector graphics. Vector graphics are composed of mathematical equations that define shapes, allowing them to be resized without losing quality. This makes Vectr ideal for tasks like logo design, illustrations, icons, and graphic design projects.
User-Friendly Interface: Vectr features an intuitive and user-friendly interface that is suitable for both beginners and experienced designers. Its layout is straightforward, with easily accessible tools and a canvas for drawing and editing.
Real-Time Collaboration: Vectr offers real-time collaboration features, allowing multiple users to work on the same project simultaneously. This is especially useful for teams or individuals working on projects together remotely.
Cross-Platform Compatibility: Since Vectr is web-based, it works on various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux, without the need for platform-specific software.
Basic Drawing Tools: Vectr provides essential drawing tools such as shapes, lines, curves, and text. You can create and manipulate these elements to build complex vector graphics.
Layers and Transparency: Vectr supports layers, which allow you to organize and manage different elements of your design separately. You can also control the transparency and blending modes of individual layers.
Export Options: You can export your Vectr projects in various formats, including SVG, PNG, and JPG, making it easy to use your designs in other applications or for web and print purposes.
Tutorials and Learning Resources: Vectr provides tutorials and learning resources to help users get started with vector graphic design. This can be helpful for those who are new to vector graphics editing.
Community and Support: Vectr has an active user community, and you can find support through online forums and help resources.
Free and Paid Versions: Vectr offers both a free version with basic features and a paid version with advanced features. The free version is suitable for many vector graphic design tasks, while the paid version unlocks additional capabilities and collaboration features.
Integration: Vectr can be integrated into other applications and platforms, allowing you to use your Vectr designs in various contexts, such as websites, presentations, and marketing materials.

In summary, Vectr is a user-friendly, web-based vector graphics editor that is useful for creating and editing vector graphics for a wide range of design projects. Its accessibility, real-time collaboration, and compatibility with various platforms make it a valuable tool for individuals, small teams, and anyone looking to work with vector graphics without the need for complex software installations.

Best Paid Adobe Illustrator Alternatives

8. BoxySVG

Best for: Designers with low design volume seeking quality tools
Platform: Mac, Windows, Chrome, Web

BoxySVG is a vector graphics editor designed specifically for working with Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) files. It is a user-friendly, web-based tool that allows users to create, edit, and manipulate SVG graphics directly in their web browsers. Here’s some information about BoxySVG and how it can be useful:

Web-Based Application: BoxySVG is a web app, which means you don’t need to download or install any software on your computer. You can access and use it directly in your web browser, making it a convenient option for both Windows and macOS users.
SVG-Focused: BoxySVG is tailored for working with SVG files, which are widely used for web graphics, icons, logos, and illustrations. It allows you to create and edit vector graphics, making it a valuable tool for web designers, illustrators, and developers.
User-Friendly Interface: BoxySVG features an intuitive and user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate. It is designed to be approachable for both beginners and experienced users in vector graphics editing.
Drawing Tools: BoxySVG offers a range of drawing tools, including basic shapes (rectangles, circles, polygons), freehand drawing, and text. You can create complex illustrations and designs using these tools.
Path Editing: BoxySVG provides tools for editing paths, allowing you to create and manipulate complex shapes using Bezier curves. This is particularly useful for creating custom icons and illustrations.
Layers and Groups: Like many graphics editors, BoxySVG supports layers and groups, which help you organize and manage the elements in your artwork. Layers make it easier to work on different parts of your design separately.
Import and Export: You can import existing SVG files into BoxySVG for editing. It also provides various export options, allowing you to save your work in different formats, such as SVG, PNG, and PDF.
Live Preview: BoxySVG has a live preview feature that allows you to see how your SVG graphics will look in different browsers as you work. This helps ensure that your designs are compatible with various web environments.
Responsive Design: BoxySVG includes features for creating responsive SVGs. You can easily adjust the size and positioning of elements to create graphics that adapt well to different screen sizes and resolutions.
Collaboration: BoxySVG offers collaboration features, allowing multiple users to work on the same SVG document simultaneously. This can be beneficial for teams working on web design projects.
Integration: BoxySVG can be integrated with other web development tools and platforms. You can directly copy SVG code or export your designs for use in web development projects.
Cost-Effective: BoxySVG offers a free plan with basic features, making it accessible to users with limited budgets. Paid plans with additional features and storage are also available.

In summary, BoxySVG is a web-based vector graphics editor that focuses on SVG files. It’s a useful tool for web designers, illustrators, and developers who need to create or edit vector graphics for web projects. Its simplicity, live preview, and collaboration features make it a convenient choice for working with SVGs in a browser-based environment.

9. Corel Vector

Best for: Freelance illustrators and designers requiring a robust design tool
Platform: Mac, Linux, Windows, Chrome, Web Browser

Corel Corporation is a Canadian software company known for its suite of creative and productivity software applications. One of its most well-known products is CorelDRAW, which is a vector graphics editor. Corel also offers other software products like Corel Painter, Corel PaintShop Pro, and Corel VideoStudio. Here’s some information about Corel and how its software can be useful:

CorelDRAW: CorelDRAW is a professional vector graphics editor widely used in graphic design, illustration, and desktop publishing. It is known for its versatility and robust features, making it suitable for creating logos, brochures, posters, banners, and more. CorelDRAW supports both vector and raster graphics, making it a powerful all-in-one design tool.
Corel Painter: Corel Painter is a digital painting software that simulates natural media such as brushes, paints, and canvas textures. It is a favorite among digital artists, illustrators, and concept artists for its ability to replicate traditional art techniques digitally. Corel Painter offers a wide range of brushes and tools for creating digital artwork.
Corel PaintShop Pro: PaintShop Pro is an image editing software similar to Adobe Photoshop. It is designed for photo editing and manipulation, offering tools for enhancing and retouching photographs. It provides features like layers, masks, filters, and advanced selection tools.
Corel VideoStudio: Corel VideoStudio is a video editing software designed for creating and editing video content. It includes features for video editing, compositing, and special effects. It’s suitable for both beginners and more advanced video editors.
Productivity Software: Corel also offers productivity software like Corel WordPerfect Office, which is an alternative to Microsoft Office. WordPerfect Office includes word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, and email software, making it useful for office and business tasks.
Cross-Platform Compatibility: Corel software applications are available for both Windows and macOS, making them accessible to users on different operating systems.
Wide Range of Features: Corel software products are known for their extensive feature sets, making them suitable for professionals and advanced users. They often include tools for advanced graphics and video editing, as well as options for automation and customization.
User-Friendly Interface: Corel products generally have user-friendly interfaces that are easy to learn, making them accessible to users with various levels of expertise.
Training and Support: Corel provides training materials, tutorials, and customer support to help users learn and troubleshoot any issues they may encounter while using their software.
Cost-Effective Alternatives: Corel software products are often seen as cost-effective alternatives to some of the more expensive software suites in their respective categories, such as Adobe Creative Cloud or Microsoft Office.

In summary, Corel offers a range of creative and productivity software applications that are useful for a variety of tasks, including graphic design, digital art creation, photo editing, video editing, and office productivity. These applications are known for their extensive features, cross-platform compatibility, and user-friendly interfaces, making them valuable tools for both professionals and hobbyists in various creative and business fields.

10. Affinity Designer

Best for: Experienced designers needing advanced vector and raster tools
Platform: Mac, Windows, iPad

Affinity Designer is a professional vector graphics design software developed by Serif, a UK-based software company. It is known for its powerful feature set, user-friendly interface, and affordability. Affinity Designer is primarily used for creating vector graphics and illustrations, making it a valuable tool for graphic designers, illustrators, and other creative professionals. Here is some information about Affinity Designer and how it can be useful:

Vector Graphics: Affinity Designer is specifically designed for working with vector graphics. Vector graphics are composed of mathematical equations that define shapes, allowing them to be resized without loss of quality. This makes Affinity Designer ideal for tasks like logo design, illustrations, icons, and graphic design projects.
Affordable: Affinity Designer is a cost-effective alternative to other professional vector graphic design software like Adobe Illustrator. It offers a one-time purchase price without the need for a subscription, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
Cross-Platform: Affinity Designer is available for both Windows and macOS, providing compatibility for users on different operating systems.
User-Friendly Interface: Affinity Designer features an intuitive and user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate, even for those new to vector graphic design. The layout is designed to be familiar to users of other graphic design software.
Professional Features: Despite its affordability, Affinity Designer offers a wide range of professional features, including vector brushes, advanced layer styles, gradient editing, and precise alignment and snapping tools.
Pixel Persona: Affinity Designer has a unique “Pixel Persona” that allows you to seamlessly switch between vector and raster editing. This feature is especially useful when you need to work on both vector and pixel-based elements within the same document.
Live Effects and Filters: The software offers live effects and filters that can be applied to vector objects, allowing for non-destructive editing. This means you can make changes to effects and filters at any time without losing your original artwork.
Typography Tools: Affinity Designer includes comprehensive typography tools for working with text. You can create text on a path, adjust character and paragraph styles, and import fonts. The software also supports OpenType features.
Export and File Compatibility: Affinity Designer supports various file formats, including SVG, PDF, EPS, and popular raster formats like JPEG, PNG, and TIFF. It also offers export persona features for easily exporting assets and artboards for web and print.
Artboards and Symbols: You can work with multiple artboards within a single document, which is useful for creating designs for multiple screens or formats in one place. The software also supports symbols, making it easier to reuse and edit design elements.
Resource Integration: Affinity Designer seamlessly integrates with other Affinity products, such as Affinity Photo (for raster image editing) and Affinity Publisher (for desktop publishing), creating a unified workflow for various design tasks.
Community and Support: Affinity Designer has an active user community, and you can find tutorials, documentation, and forums online to help you learn and troubleshoot issues.

In summary, Affinity Designer is a versatile and cost-effective vector graphics design software that offers professional-level features. Whether you’re a graphic designer, illustrator, or hobbyist, it provides a robust toolset for creating high-quality vector graphics and illustrations. Its cross-platform availability and affordability make it a compelling choice for many creative professionals.

11. Sketch

Best for: Collaborative design teams
Platform: Mac app, Web Browser, iPhone app

Sketch is a professional vector graphics design software primarily used by designers and artists for creating user interfaces (UI), web design, app design, and other digital illustrations. It’s a popular choice in the design industry for its user-friendly interface and specific features tailored for digital design. Here’s some information about Sketch and how it’s useful:

Mac Exclusive: Sketch is exclusive to macOS, which means it’s only available for Mac users. Its design is optimized for the macOS environment and adheres to Apple’s design guidelines.
Vector Graphics: Sketch is a vector-based design tool, which means it focuses on creating scalable, high-resolution graphics. Vector graphics are essential for UI and web design, as they ensure that designs look crisp and clear across various screen sizes and resolutions.
User Interface Design: Sketch is particularly well-suited for designing user interfaces for websites, mobile apps, and other digital platforms. It provides a range of tools and features for creating buttons, icons, menus, and interactive elements.
Artboards: Sketch uses artboards, which are like canvases for your designs. You can create multiple artboards to represent different screens or views within a single document, making it easy to design complete user flows and prototypes.
Symbols and Shared Styles: Sketch allows you to create symbols and shared styles. Symbols are reusable design elements, such as buttons or icons, that can be updated across your entire project simultaneously. Shared styles allow you to maintain consistent colors, text styles, and other design elements throughout your project.
Plugins and Integrations: Sketch has a robust plugin ecosystem that extends its functionality. You can find plugins for tasks like user testing, prototyping, and exporting assets. It also integrates with design collaboration and prototyping tools like InVision, Framer, and Zeplin.
Vector Editing Tools: Sketch provides a range of vector editing tools for creating and modifying shapes, paths, and text. It includes features like Boolean operations, vector editing nodes, and vector-specific effects.
Export Options: Sketch makes it easy to export assets and designs for development. You can export individual elements, entire artboards, or slices in various formats, including SVG, PNG, JPG, and PDF.
Pixel Preview: While Sketch is primarily a vector design tool, it offers a pixel preview mode, allowing you to see how your designs will look when rendered as raster images. This is crucial for ensuring your UI designs appear as intended on different screens.
Design Collaboration: Sketch Cloud allows you to share your design files with collaborators and stakeholders. They can view and comment on designs online without needing the Sketch software.
Responsive Design: With the help of artboards and resizable symbols, Sketch supports responsive design. You can design for multiple screen sizes and orientations within the same project.
Community and Learning Resources: Sketch has a vibrant user community and numerous online tutorials and resources. This makes it easier to learn and stay updated on the latest design trends and techniques.

In summary, Sketch is a specialized vector design tool tailored for digital design, especially UI and web design. Its intuitive interface, powerful features, and integration with design collaboration tools have made it a popular choice among designers for creating interactive and visually appealing digital experiences. While it’s exclusive to macOS, its impact in the design industry is significant.

12. VectorStyler

Best for: Experienced designers preferring a one-time license
Platform: Mac, Windows

As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, VectorStyler was not a widely recognized or widely used vector graphics software like Adobe Illustrator, CorelDRAW, or Inkscape. It’s possible that it has gained more popularity or undergone changes since then. However, I can provide some general information about vector graphics software and how they are typically useful.

Vector graphics software, including potential options like VectorStyler, are primarily designed for creating and editing vector graphics. Here’s a general overview of vector graphics software and their usefulness:

Vector Graphics Creation: Vector graphics are composed of mathematical shapes and lines rather than pixels, making them ideal for creating logos, illustrations, icons, and other graphics that need to be scaled to various sizes without loss of quality. Vector graphics software allows you to draw and manipulate these shapes easily.
Illustration and Design: Vector software is commonly used for creating detailed illustrations and designs. It provides tools for drawing shapes, curves, and lines, as well as for adding text and applying various effects.
Logo Design: Many businesses and organizations use vector graphics software to design logos. Logos need to look crisp and clear at different sizes, and vector graphics allow for this scalability.
Typography: Vector software often includes advanced text handling capabilities, making it useful for typography and creating custom fonts.
Icon Design: Vector graphics are perfect for creating icons, especially for web and mobile applications. They can be easily resized to fit various device resolutions.
Print and Publication: Vector graphics software is used in print design for creating materials like brochures, posters, flyers, and business cards. Vector graphics can be exported to formats like PDF and EPS, which are suitable for professional printing.
Web Design: While raster graphics (like JPEGs and PNGs) are used for photographs and some web graphics, vector graphics are often used for elements that require sharpness and clarity, such as logos and icons on websites.
Artistic Expression: Vector software can also be used as a digital canvas for artistic expression. Artists create intricate artworks using vector drawing tools.
Precision and Control: Vector software provides precise control over every element of your design. You can easily adjust colors, shapes, sizes, and positions to achieve the desired result.
Export Formats: Vector software typically supports various export formats, including SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics), AI (Adobe Illustrator), PDF (Portable Document Format), and others, allowing you to share your work with others or use it in different contexts.
Extensibility: Some vector graphics software supports extensions or plugins that can enhance its functionality, allowing you to add features and tools tailored to your needs.

It’s important to note that the specific features and user experience of any vector graphics software can vary significantly. Before choosing a vector graphics software, it’s advisable to research and evaluate options to ensure that they meet your particular requirements and preferences.

If you are specifically interested in VectorStyler, I recommend visiting their official website or consulting recent reviews and user feedback to learn more about its features and how it may be useful for your specific needs.

Adobe Alternatives for Any Budget

Professional vector graphics creation doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether you’re a graphic design novice or an experienced pro, these alternatives provide budget-friendly options for creating stunning visuals. Explore these tools to find the one that best suits your design needs.

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in June 2018 and has been updated for comprehensiveness.]*