Adobe Illustrator is the industry leader in vector design, but its subscription model can be expensive for beginners or freelancers. Thankfully, there are several free tools—both online and desktop—that offer many of the same features, like SVG editing, pen tools, layers, shape creation, and typography control.
Page Contents
1. Inkscape
Inkscape is the most powerful free alternative to Illustrator. It’s open-source and supports SVG editing, Bezier curves, layers, path operations, and text tools. It runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux and supports Illustrator file formats (.AI via SVG or PDF).
Best for: Graphic designers, illustrators, and anyone needing full-featured vector design software.
2. Vectr
Vectr is a free, browser-based vector design app with desktop versions available. It features basic vector shapes, text tools, layers, and real-time collaboration, making it easy for beginners.
Best for: Quick, simple vector designs and team collaboration online.
3. Boxy SVG
Boxy SVG is a Chrome-based vector editor with support for SVG, fonts, gradients, and layers. It offers a clean interface and integrates with Google Fonts and local file systems.
Best for: Web designers and UI/UX pros working primarily in SVG format.
4. Gravit Designer (Free Version)
Gravit Designer offers a free cloud-based app for vector design, illustration, and UI mockups. The free version includes shape tools, layers, and export options (limited offline use and fewer advanced tools).
Best for: Graphic designers wanting a modern, cross-platform web tool.
5. Krita (with Vector Tools)
Krita is a free, open-source painting program that also supports vector layers, SVG import/export, and shape tools. While primarily raster-based, it’s great for comics and mixed workflows.
Best for: Digital artists blending illustration and vector shapes.
6. SVG-Edit
SVG-Edit is a free, browser-based vector editor that works in modern browsers without sign-up. It’s lightweight and includes basic pen tools, path editing, shape creation, and layers.
Best for: Simple SVG editing and fast browser-based vector tasks.
7. Penpot
Penpot is an open-source, collaborative vector design tool for teams. It’s browser-based and supports prototyping, component design, and UI/UX wireframes with a focus on open design standards.
Best for: Teams and product designers looking for a Figma-style free tool.
8. Draw.io / Diagrams.net
While not a vector tool in the traditional sense, Draw.io allows you to create flowcharts, diagrams, and icons with SVG export, layers, and grid snapping—useful for basic layout and infographics.
Best for: Business users and educators creating diagrams or flowcharts.
9. Lunacy by Icons8
Lunacy is a free vector editor for Windows, macOS, and Linux. It supports Sketch file formats, has built-in assets (icons, illustrations), and offers offline use with zero cost.
Best for: UI/UX designers who need a fast, desktop-ready vector tool.
10. Figma (Free Tier)
Though primarily for UI/UX design, Figma supports robust vector drawing tools, layers, typography, prototyping, and team collaboration in the browser. The free plan is generous and supports unlimited files.
Best for: Web designers and teams building interfaces with vector assets.
Choosing the Best Free Illustrator Alternative
-
Need full-featured vector software? → Go with Inkscape or Gravit Designer
-
Want browser-based design? → Try Vectr, Boxy SVG, or SVG-Edit
-
Focused on collaboration and UI/UX? → Use Figma, Penpot, or Lunacy
-
Combining drawing and vector art? → Consider Krita for mixed media
All these tools offer robust vector capabilities at no cost—ideal for personal projects, freelancing, or professional design work.
