Top 10+ Adobe Illustrator Alternatives for Graphic Designers

Adobe Illustrator has long been a favourite in the vector graphics arena. It's packed with robust tools and a playground for creativity, where you can bring visions to life with dynamic brushes, stunning effects, layers, filters, colour tweaks, gradients, and drawing tools. However, its hefty system demands and subscription cost have designers searching for Adobe Illustrator Alternatives.

Even with nearly 30 million Adobe Creative Cloud users as of 2022, the steep price tag isn’t one-size-fits-all. The good news? There’s a treasure trove of fantastic Adobe Illustrator Alternatives out there, both free and paid, that promise to meet graphic designers’ needs without emptying their wallets. In this blog, we’re diving into the top Adobe Illustrator Alternatives so you can pick the perfect match for your design endeavours, stress-free and budget-friendly.   

Table of Contents 

1) 10+ Adobe Illustrator Alternatives

    a) Inkscape

    b) CorelDRAW Graphics Suite   

    c) Affinity Designer  

    d) VectorStyler  

    e) Vectr  

    f) Sketch

    g) Corel Vector

    h) Apache OpenOffice Draw

    i) GIMP

    j) Pixlr

    k) Boxy SVG

2) Conclusion

10+ Adobe illustrator Alternatives

Illustrator offers many advantages, like manageable file sizes, cross-platforming, and in-panel editing. Keeping these features in mind, here are the top Adobe Illustrator Alternatives:   

Inkscape

Inkscape, the open-source vector graphics powerhouse, is the premier free alternative to Adobe Illustrator for professionals and enthusiasts in illustration, Graphic Design, and web design.
 

Packed with a comprehensive toolkit that rivals Illustrator’s, Inkscape offers everything from standard drawing and shape tools to unique features like spirals, clone patterning, sophisticated object manipulation, and many filters for angles, textures, and overlays. Plus, it’s equipped with versatile fill options. If Illustrator can do it, chances are, Inkscape can too.

The beauty of open-source software like Inkscape is not just its price tag (or lack thereof) but also its flexibility. Those with coding skills can tweak and tailor it, even integrating it into other applications. Inkscape’s latest update continually evolves, rolling out mesh gradients, enhanced SVG2 and CSS3 support, and fresh path effects.

The potential downside? Some users report sluggish performance, which may vary based on your hardware and OS. But why not take it for a spin yourself? It’s free to download, and you might just find it’s the tool you’ve been searching for.

CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 

CorelDRAW, part of the Corel graphics suite, is a formidable rival to Photoshop with its comprehensive vector illustration capabilities. It streamlines the process of preparing vectors for print, simplifies editing multi-page documents, offers non-destructive bitmap-to-vector conversion, and even allows you to whip up QR codes with ease.

For those who love to sketch, the LiveSketch feature is a game-changer on touch-enabled devices, transforming freehand drawings into precise vector graphics. CorelDRAW has carved out a niche in the printing industry across various global regions.

Supported formats include AI, PSD, PDF, JPG, PNG, SVG, DWG, DXF, EPS, TIFF, and more, ensuring seamless workflow integration.

Available on Both MacOS and Windows, CorelDRAW caters to a wide range of users.

Pricing details: Dip your toes into the world of CorelDRAW with a 15-day free trial. If it suits your fancy, you can opt for an annual subscription at £198 or go all in with a one-time purchase of the full license for £669.

Expanding on its offerings, CorelDRAW isn’t just about the tools; it’s about an ecosystem that supports your creative journey from concept to completion. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, CorelDRAW’s intuitive interface and robust feature set make it a compelling choice for anyone looking to create stunning vector art without the constraints of a subscription model.

CorelDRAW Graphics Suite shines with its ability to work well with industry-standard file formats like AI, EPS, PDF, and SVG. This feature is a boon for Designers, enabling effortless file sharing with clients and peers and smooth integration with other design tools, paving the way for more fluid collaboration.

Moreover, CorelDRAW Graphics Suite is on the ball, constantly refreshing with new additions and refinements. It stays in step with the ever-changing landscape of design and tech, thanks to a development team that tunes in to user input, rolling out updates that boost functionality and user experience.  

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Affinity Designer 

 Affinity Designer, crafted by Serif, is a robust vector graphics suite that has garnered acclaim from graphic designers, illustrators, and digital artists for its prowess as a formidable alternative to Adobe Illustrator.

 

A standout feature of Affinity Designer is its exceptional speed and performance. Designed to handle intricate design tasks, it is a dependable resource for crafting straightforward illustrations and elaborate compositions. The software’s instantaneous rendering allows for a seamless design experience, presenting real-time updates as alterations are made.

The software boasts a streamlined, intuitive interface designed to enhance workflow efficiency. It comes equipped with an extensive array of vector and raster tools, enabling the effortless creation of illustrations, logos, icons, and web graphics. Additionally, Affinity Designer provides a comprehensive selection of layer effects, blending modes, and non-destructive editing capabilities, thus expanding users' creative possibilities.

One of the key benefits of Affinity Designer is its seamless integration with other Affinity products, such as Affinity Photo and Affinity Publisher. This compatibility ensures a smooth file transfer process across different design stages without interruptions. The software’s fluid app-switching feature positions Affinity Designer as a versatile option for designers seeking both flexibility and productivity.

Engineered to support both vector and raster file formats, including Adobe Illustrator (AI) files, Affinity Designer facilitates a smooth transition for designers migrating from Illustrator, ensuring no loss of work or compatibility. The software’s availability across MacOS, Windows, and iPad platforms extends its reach to a diverse user base.

With its advanced features and efficient performance, Affinity Designer has outshined its competitors, offering itself as a one-time purchase in the Graphic Design arena. The software is well-equipped with tools and functionalities that cater to both seasoned professionals and novices alike.

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VectorStyler

VectorStyler emerges as a noteworthy alternative to Illustrator, particularly celebrated for its extensive selection of vector brushes.

 Tailored for illustrators seeking a diverse brush range, it operates on both Windows and macOS platforms and is available through a single payment.

Why VectorStyler is a compelling choice:

a) It boasts a vast array of scalable vector brushes.

b) The interface is user-friendly and intuitive.

Considerations before purchasing:

It is priced higher than some alternatives, requiring a one-time payment.

VectorStyler has recently broadened its accessibility, now supporting Windows in addition to macOS. Its appeal lies in its comprehensive brush options and additional tools like a shape builder, blend tool, and pattern tool—features that may be absent in other Illustrator substitutes.

The software accommodates Illustrator files and permits the import of AI brush collections. The interface is straightforward, complemented by a variety of intriguing filters and tools. However, at a cost of £‎95, VectorStyler is notably pricier than Affinity Designer, which is often preferred for its cost-effectiveness. Unlike Affinity Designer, VectorStyler does not offer an iPad version or belong to a broader software ecosystem. Nevertheless, for those who value the unique features that Affinity Designer does not provide, VectorStyler may justify its higher price point.

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Vectr

Another free graphics software, Vectr stands out for its simplicity and real-time collaboration features. Designed with beginners and small design projects in mind, Vectr offers a user-friendly interface that makes it easy for anyone to start creating vector-based designs without a steep learning curve. Its clean and intuitive layout allows users to focus on their creativity rather than getting lost in a complex set of tools.

One of the key strengths of Vectr is its cloud-based nature. Being a web-based application, Vectr enables seamless collaboration between multiple users, even from different locations. This real-time collaboration feature is especially beneficial for small design teams, freelancers working with clients, or students collaborating on a project. Changes made to the design by one team member are instantly visible to others, promoting efficient teamwork and smoother communication. 

Despite being a free tool, Vectr offers a decent range of essential vector editing tools and capabilities. Users can create shapes, manipulate paths, add text, and apply basic effects to their designs. While it may not have the same advanced features as premium vector graphics software like Adobe Illustrator, Vectr provides enough functionality to create stunning illustrations, icons, and other vector-based designs.   

Vectr's compatibility with various operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Linux, and Chrome OS, makes it accessible to a wide audience. Whether you're working on a desktop or a Chromebook, you can access Vectr without any installation hassles.  

Sketch

Sketch stands out as an optimal Illustrator substitute tailored for UI design, available exclusively for Mac users. It’s a single-purchase software highly recommended for UI Designers, UX Designers, Web Designers, and App Designers.

 

Why Sketch is worth considering:

a) It excels in UI and icon design.

b) Offers a straightforward and user-friendly interface.

Points to ponder before choosing Sketch:

a) Limited to Mac users.

b) Doesn’t match Illustrator’s comprehensive feature set.

Launched in 2010, Sketch quickly became the preferred tool for app and website prototyping, thanks to its specialised focus on UI and icon design. While it may not be as all-encompassing as Illustrator, its simplicity and ease of use make it ideal for quick and efficient icon and UI design tasks.

Sketch is priced at £89, which includes a year of free updates. After the expiration of the license, users can continue using the current version indefinitely or opt to renew for access to the latest software updates.

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Corel Vector

Corel Vector, a cost-effective browser-based alternative to Illustrator, is ideal for designers who are mindful of their budget. Previously known as Gravit Designer, Corel Vector has transitioned from a free model to a subscription-based service.

Why Corel Vector stands out:

a) Offers a solid toolkit.

b) Supports AI and Sketch files.

c) More affordable subscription compared to CorelDRAW Graphics Suite.

Points to consider:

Exclusively online-based. As a fresh offering from Corel, Corel Vector presents itself as a viable Illustrator substitute for those seeking web-based vector design tools without a hefty price tag. Priced at £69.99 annually, it is a more economical choice than both the comprehensive CorelDRAW Graphics Suite and Illustrator. The software’s interface is designed to be clear and user-friendly, capable of handling a range of tasks from icon design and prototyping to vector illustration and animation.

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Apache OpenOffice Draw

OpenOffice presents a comprehensive suite of free office applications, unrestricted for use. Among its offerings, the Draw program stands out as a user-friendly tool for crafting a variety of visual elements, including charts, graphics, diagrams, posters, and even 3D designs.

 

While it may not boast the advanced functionalities of Adobe Illustrator or similar programs, OpenOffice Draw’s no-cost policy and intuitive design make it an excellent choice for users with basic needs. Notably, OpenOffice adheres to international standards, being the pioneer software suite to adopt the ISO-certified OASIS OpenDocument Format (ISO/IEC 26300) as its default file format.

Key details:

a) Price: Free

b) Operating Systems: macOS, Windows, Linux

c) Project goals: Facilitate the creation of everything from simple diagrams to intricate 3D illustrations. Whether it’s a rapid sketch or a detailed plan for technical or general use, OpenOffice Draw is equipped for business processes, diagrams, and more.

d) Compatible formats: PNG, JPG, GIF, TIFF, BMP, WMF

e) Bitmap conversion: Available

Core features:

a) Maximum page size of 300cm x 300cm.

b) Smart connectors are ideal for flowcharts, organisational charts, network diagrams, and floor plans.

c) Dimension lines that automatically calculate and display linear dimensions during drawing.

d) Object manipulation through rotation in two or three dimensions.

e) A 3D controller for creating geometric shapes like spheres and cubes.

f) A clipart gallery.

g) It is capable of creating Flash (.swf) versions of designs.

GIMP

GIMP, short for GNU Image Manipulation Program, primarily excels in image editing and offers a suite of features that, while not as extensive in vector capabilities as some back-end solutions, still presents a highly adaptable interface and the ability to extend functionality through third-party plugins. 

This positions it as a potential alternative to Adobe Illustrator or Adobe Photoshop for certain users. As a free and open-source software, GIMP stands out as a formidable design tool for desktop environments.

Details:

a) Price: Free

b) Operating Systems: Compatible with macOS, Windows, GNU/Linux, Sun OpenSolaris, and FreeBSD

c) Project objectives: Aims to provide tools for photo retouching, image composition and authoring, as well as comprehensive graphics manipulation.

d) Supported formats: Works with a variety of formats, including PNG, JPG, GIF, TIFF, PDF, HEIF, BMP, and DDS

e) Bitmap conversion: Not available

Key features:

a) Photo enhancement: Offers tools to correct perspective distortion, remove lens-induced distortions such as barrel distortion and vignetting, and fine-tune black and white photos using the channel mixer.

b) Digital retouching: Provides advanced options for image touch-ups.

c) Negative darkroom feature: Allows users to create print enlargements from scanned photographic negatives, mimicking traditional darkroom techniques.

d) Customisable interface: Users can tailor the workspace to their preferences, enhancing workflow and productivity.

Pixlr

Pixlr stands out as a cloud-based software that caters to designers who need flexibility and mobility. It operates on a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) model, which means it leverages cloud computing for processing and graphics rendering, making it independent of the user’s device capabilities. This feature ensures that Pixlr is a highly accessible tool for users on various platforms, including mobile, desktop, and web.

While Pixlr may not offer all the advanced features found in Adobe Illustrator, it provides enough support and a user-friendly interface to serve as a viable alternative, and it can also step in as a substitute for Adobe Photoshop for many users.

Details:

a) Price: Offers tiered pricing with Plus at £1.99/month, Premium at £7.99/month, and a Team package for up to 5 seats at £12.99/month. Annual payment options come with discounts.

b) Operating System: Accessible via web browsers.

c) Project goals: Designed for photo editing and Graphic Design tasks, with the added convenience of editing photos directly on mobile devices.

d) Supported formats: Accommodates a range of formats such as SVG, PNG, JPG, PSD, PXD, and WebP.

e) Bitmap conversion: Available.

Core features:

a) Pixlr X and Pixlr E: Two distinct online versions, where Pixlr X targets quick edits and beginners, and Pixlr E is suited for advanced edits and professional users, both supported by ads.

b) AI-powered background removal: Pixlr BG, an AI-powered tool, offers automatic and free image background removal.

c) Photo effects: Enables users to apply aesthetic photo effects through simple steps.

d) Design assets: Provides a library of stickers, overlays, borders, and decorative texts for creative projects.

Boxy SVG

Boxy SVG stands out as a browser-based vector graphics editor, catering specifically to the needs of web designers and developers immersed in the world of Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG). This application, although lightweight, packs a punch with its rich set of features. Aimed at simplifying the creation and editing of SVG files, Boxy SVG offers an array of essential vector editing tools.

 

Boxy SVG stands out as a browser-based vector graphics editor, catering specifically to the needs of web designers and developers immersed in the world of Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG). This application, although lightweight, packs a punch with its rich set of features. Aimed at simplifying the creation and editing of SVG files, Boxy SVG offers an array of essential vector editing tools.

One of its notable strengths lies in its support for layers, allowing users to organise and manipulate elements efficiently. Whether dealing with intricate shapes or gradients, Boxy SVG provides the tools for precise control over design elements. The browser-based nature of Boxy SVG is a crucial advantage, eliminating the need for users to install dedicated software. This accessibility enhances flexibility, enabling designers to work on vector graphics seamlessly from various devices without the constraints of specific installations.

The application strongly emphasises simplicity, making it approachable for users of varying skill levels. Its intuitive interface contributes to a smooth user experience, allowing beginners and experienced designers to navigate the editor effortlessly. Boxy SVG aligns with web standards, ensuring compatibility and facilitating a seamless integration into web-based design workflows.

While it may not boast the extensive feature set of some desktop applications, Boxy SVG excels in addressing specific design needs within the SVG domain. As a specialised tool, it complements the toolkit of web-focused Designers and Developers, providing a responsive and efficient platform for working with scalable vector graphics in a browser environment.

Vecteezy

Vecteezy is a user-friendly platform that simplifies vector design creation and offers a vast library of stock images from which users can choose. Its intuitive interface and streamlined process make it an ideal tool for individuals new to Graphic Design.

It provides a free version supported by ads, which includes a variety of features suitable for both novices and experienced users. Using images from the library requires attribution. The Pro subscription enhances the experience with ad-free browsing and complete commercial rights to Vecteezy’s extensive collection of the following:

1) Vectors

2) Photos

3) Videos

4) Limited downloads and legal coverage of files

Details:

a) Price: The free tier offers a £ 500 legal guarantee that allows for 50 print copies and up to 10K digital views. The Pro tier is priced at £14/month or £108/year, providing a £10,000 legal guarantee, 100K prints, 100K merchandise items, and 100K digital views. The Pro Extended tier, at £208/year, includes a £100,000 legal guarantee and permits unlimited downloads for all purposes.

b) Operating System: Accessible through any web browser.

c) Project goals: Facilitates the editing of SVG files and serves as an online source for high-quality, free vector art, as well as fresh stock photos and videos to kickstart creative projects. Users can customise Vecteezy’s content before downloading or creating original vector designs from scratch.

d) Supported formats: Compatible with SVG and PNG formats.

e) Bitmap conversion: Available exclusively with the paid Pro subscription.

f) Core features: Boasts millions of free resources. Designed to be straightforward for beginners while still offering robust features for professionals. Offers a pay-per-download option for non-subscribers.

Pixelied

Pixelied emerges as a compelling design suite that offers an array of features tailored for ease of use, making it an excellent choice for creating eye-catching graphics. It’s particularly beneficial for those accustomed to Illustrator but requires a faster alternative for graphic creation, like Canva. Pixelied may not match Illustrator’s depth in vector editing, but it compensates with a rich selection of assets, vector icons, templates, and pre-designed solutions that streamline the design process.

Users can seamlessly integrate their vector files from Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop into Pixelied, enhancing their design capabilities. This cloud-based application is accessible across various devices, ensuring that your creative workflow is uninterrupted, regardless of location.

Pricing: Pixelied is accessible with a free tier, and a Pro plan is available at an affordable £7.95 per month. Additionally, Pixelied has been featured in an AppSumo deal, offering the design suite at a discounted price of £49.00, down from the original value of £390.00.

Figma

Figma is recognised for its collaborative capabilities, particularly in wireframing and UI design. While not a direct rival to Adobe’s offerings, Figma’s web-based application facilitates a shared workspace where files can be distributed via links, streamlining the review process without the need for constant exporting.

The platform is acclaimed for its real-time collaboration features, allowing teams to work together seamlessly. Although Figma’s vector graphic tools are more fundamental compared to Adobe Illustrator, they still provide essential tools like the pen tool, vector networks, and smart components, catering to web-focused design.

a) Compatible formats: Supports a variety of formats, including PDF, PNG, JPG, SVG, and others.

b) Operating System/Device: Available on MacOS and as a cloud-based web application thus, eliminating the need for any downloads.

c) Pricing: Figma offers a free tier for up to 2 editors and three projects. For extended use, paid plans begin at £6 per editor per month, with annual billing.

Gravit Designer

Gravit Designer is an advanced vector Graphic Design application that is ideally suited for professional Designers. It boasts an extensive collection of design elements, such as shapes and illustrations, which users can employ to create high-quality, scalable vector graphics. The premium PRO version offers even more functionality, including cloud-based file synchronisation, an offline mode for seamless work, and a broader range of file import and export capabilities.

a) Supported file formats: Gravit Designer is compatible with numerous file formats, including PNG, JPG, PDF, SVG, EPS, and AI.

b) Available on multiple platforms: The software is designed to be cross-platform, with compatibility across MacOS, Windows, Linux, and Chrome OS.

c) Pricing structure: Gravit Designer provides a free version with essential features for those starting out or with limited needs. For professionals seeking the full array of advanced features, the PRO plan is priced at an annual subscription of £ 39.88.

Vectornator 

Vectornator began its journey as an iPad application and has evolved into an intriguing free option for vector editing. It offers a suite of advanced tools which includes boolean operations, grouping, the pen tool, anchoring, and masking features. What makes Vectornator particularly noteworthy is the anticipated introduction of real-time collaboration, which is expected to be a game-changer for design workflows.

a) Supported formats: The app is adept at handling various file formats such as AI, SVG, and PDF, catering to a wide range of design needs.

b) Operating Systems: Initially designed for iOS, Vectornator runs smoothly on both MacOS and iOS devices, including iPads and iPhones.

c) Pricing information: Vectornator is available at no cost, making it an accessible tool for Designers of all levels.

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Conclusion  

Selecting the ideal Adobe Illustrator Alternative hinges on your individual design needs, financial considerations, and personal taste. Whether it’s Inkscape’s robust capabilities, CorelDRAW Graphics Suite’s high-end tools, Affinity Designer’s fluid workflow, Gravit Designer’s web-based ease, or Vectr’s upcoming collaborative features, each option offers distinct advantages to enrich your Graphic Design endeavours.

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