Free Alternatives to Illustrator (2025): 9 Vector Editors Compared

TL;DR: For most people, Inkscape is the best free Illustrator alternative (capable and cross‑platform). If you prefer the browser and SVG workflows, try Boxy SVG. For collaboration, a Figma free plan works well for UI and basic vector work. Lunacy is a lightweight desktop pick with handy extras.

Why consider an Illustrator alternative?

• Cost: Subscription adds up if you only need basic vectors occasionally.
• Simplicity: Many free tools start fast and feel lighter.
• OS support: Strong options on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
• Web/SVG‑first: If your final output is SVG for the web, some tools are purpose‑built for that.

How we tested

• File imports: SVG and PDF in all tools; limited .ai import where supported (often via PDF content inside .ai).
• Core tasks: Shape building, path operations, text on path, symbols, and export to SVG/PDF/PNG.
• Practical checks: Snapping, precision transforms, and stability on medium‑complexity files.

The contenders

Inkscape (Best overall free desktop editor)

Pros

• Powerful path tools, node editing, and Boolean operations
• Rich extension ecosystem; active community
• Good SVG support and PDF export

Cons

• UI can feel dense at first
• CMYK/print workflows require extra steps or external tools

How to switch from Illustrator

• Map Pathfinder to Inkscape’s Path menu (Union, Difference, Intersect, etc.)
• Use Extensions for extra effects; customize keyboard shortcuts early

Boxy SVG (Best for web‑first SVG work)

Pros

• Designed around clean SVG output
• Great for icons, UI assets, and illustrations destined for the web
• Runs in browser or as a desktop app

Cons

• Not aimed at complex print layouts
• Advanced features are more limited than heavy desktop suites

How to switch from Illustrator

• Focus on SVG‑native workflows; export SVG and optimize
• Replace complex effects with simpler, web‑friendly shapes/gradients

Figma (Great for collaboration and UI‑adjacent vector work)

Pros

• Real‑time collaboration and commenting
• Components, constraints, and prototyping for interface design
• Easy sharing via links

Cons

• Offline support is limited compared to desktop apps
• Not meant to be a print/prepress tool

How to switch from Illustrator

• Treat vector assets like components; organize frames and pages
• Export SVG/PNG for dev handoff; keep a “source” page for symbols

Lunacy (Lightweight desktop vector editor)

Pros

• Fast, simple UI with useful extras (icons, illustrations)
• Works offline; good for banners, mockups, and simple illustrations

Cons

• Smaller ecosystem than Inkscape or Figma
• Some advanced typography and prepress features are limited

How to switch from Illustrator

• Start with shape and text tools; learn constraints for responsive layouts
• Use built‑in assets for quick drafts and social graphics

Comparison notes

• OS: Inkscape (Win/macOS/Linux), Lunacy (Win/macOS), Figma/Boxy SVG (browser + apps)
• Export: All handle SVG/PNG; PDF is supported on desktop tools
• Print: True CMYK workflows are limited—convert at export using external tools if needed
• Collaboration: Figma leads; others rely on file sharing/version control

Tips when switching

• Fonts: Install the same typefaces across machines; avoid missing glyphs
• Color: For print, soft‑proof with ICC profiles and convert on export
• Export presets: Save SVG/PDF/PNG presets for consistent assets
• Shortcuts: Customize early; it pays off quickly

FAQ

Can I open .ai files in free tools?

Partially. Many .ai files contain a PDF stream that imports cleanly; complex Illustrator‑specific features (live effects, appearance) may not translate perfectly. Ask for SVG/PDF exports when possible.

Which tool is best for logo design?

If you need precise curves and control, Inkscape is a strong choice. For simple, web‑bound marks, Boxy SVG is excellent. If you collaborate with teammates or clients, Figma’s sharing features are hard to beat.

Final verdict

• Inkscape: Best all‑around free desktop editor for precision paths and exports.
• Boxy SVG: Best for web/SVG assets, icons, and lightweight illustration.
• Figma: Best for collaboration, components, and UI‑adjacent vector work.
• Lunacy: Best lightweight desktop option for quick banners and mockups.