No other tool can come close to Adobe Illustrator when it comes to graphic design. The fantastic software excels at designing vector graphics, logos, icons, and several other things.
However, the main drawback of the software is its price, which makes it difficult for small graphic designers to afford. So, they have to depend on cheaper or open-source alternatives to Adobe Illustrator.
An open-source graphic designing tool may not be exactly the same as the Adobe Illustrator bus. Still, you will find most of the functions in it. Users can find a variety of such software, each with a different set of functions. The best part of using them is that they are absolutely free and come with a nominal subscription fee.
So, if you are also looking for a similar alternative that is efficient and pocket-friendly, then our list will help you a lot. We have tried to list the best open-source alternative for Adobe Illustrator to help our readers choose.
1. Inkscape
Inkscape is one of the most suitable counterparts of Adobe Illustrator for illustrating, sketching, and editing pictures. It has all the required functions, from bitmap tracing to color tracing. Inkscape also allows you to rotate the screen by pixels.
The software is open-source, but there are still several complex functions. For instance, you can create unique textures and gradients in Inkscape. All over the illustrator can be used by both semi Pro and Pro graphic designers.
2. sK1 Project
This is a fantastic tool for Photoshop, image manipulation, and other graphic editing. Many add-ons are available for it. The best part of the sK1 Project is that it allows you to use third-party plugins to add features that are not available in Photoshop.
The only drawback of the sK1 Project is that it features limited vector functions making it unsuitable for some artists. Still, you can rely on it for non-drawing purposes as photo editing features are best in class and free to use.
3. Libre Office Draw
If you are a beginner in making vector graphics and need easy-to-use software, try out Libre Office Draw. This amazing open-source alternative to Adobe Illustrator has all the professional functions but is simplified to use. Some tools you will get in Libre Office Draw include pen, bezier curves, groups, shapes, etc.
As the software is easy to use, you can finish your project much faster than on any other software. The UIÂ is also clean; you will find everything using the search option. As the software is open-source, you can also make minor tweaks if required.Â
4. SVG Edits
It is a portable vector graphics editor that you can use without downloading. The software is suitable for those who want to do light editing and don’t want to engage dedicated space in their computer system for that. SVG Edits is also one of the oldest open-source editors you will get.
The product has not been updated for a long time, but the developers’ team has recently become active. They have introduced many modern features to keep up with contemporary illustrator software.
5. Skencil
Skencil is a worthy substitute for Adobe Illustrator as it has almost all of Adobe’s functions. From basic vector editing tools like pen, ink, line, knife, etc., to advanced stuff like Boolean operations and symbols, everything is present in it. In addition, the user interface is straightforward and easily navigable.
Skencil has several convenience features, including sharing your images directly over the internet without saving them. You can also do the same to print your project in high quality. Skencil supports JPG, PNG, SVG, and others.
6. Apache OpenOffice Draw
This open-source illustrator and photo editor offers premium-quality pictures to its users free of cost. Features like bezier curves, 3D functions, etc., are present in it. You will get pre-designed templates on Apache OpenOffice Draw to incorporate them into your project.
You can use the software’s digital reference book if you are new to graphic design. Some unique functions, like merging several pages to make a long Canvas for your vector art, are available in Apache OpenOffice Draw.
7. Affinity Designer
It is a fantastic software for making vector drawings from scratch. Its extensive features like infinite zooming, automatic snapping points, etc., have made it one of the favorites among graphic designers. Apart from vectors, you will also get a raster workspace in Affinity Designer.
The software allows you to use unlimited artboards while drawing. However, this reference search software is not free and comes with a 90-day free trial. After that, you can opt for a subscription.
8. Collaboration Online Draw
Collaboration Online Draw is a cloud-based alternative to Adobe Illustrator. The software can be accessed through a browser, making it portable and convenient. In addition, it integrates with cloud hosting platforms like Nextcloud and ownCloud to offer ample storage space for your drawings.
Collaboration Online Draw has a built-in library where you will find templates, animations, images, etc., to insert them into your work. Another promising platform aspect is that you can work on 3D objects. The supported file formats in Collaboration Online Draw are PNG, JPG, SVG, GIF, and others.
