Adobe Illustrator alternatives: 6 apps ranked by verified data
Common reasons people leave Adobe Illustrator: subscription only, no perpetual licence, and steep learning curve for newcomers. We ranked 6 alternatives by how directly each one replaces Adobe Illustrator, then by reviews, real visits and how recently each app's facts were checked against its own website. Inkscape currently ranks first.
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The highest-ranked app in this list for each need.
Best Adobe Illustrator alternative for most people
InkscapeFree, open-source vector editor for Windows, Mac and Linux.
Best Adobe Illustrator alternative for a free option
InkscapeFree, open-source vector editor for Windows, Mac and Linux.
Best Adobe Illustrator alternative for a free plan you can upgrade
FigmaBetter for UI and collaborative work, with solid vector tools.
Best Adobe Illustrator alternative for open source
InkscapeFree, open-source vector editor for Windows, Mac and Linux.
Best Adobe Illustrator alternative for Mac
CorelDRAWLong-running professional rival with a one-time purchase option.
Best Adobe Illustrator alternative for Windows
AffinityFree professional vector, pixel and layout app with no subscription.
Best Adobe Illustrator alternative for Linux
InkscapeFree, open-source vector editor for Windows, Mac and Linux.
Best Adobe Illustrator alternative for working in the browser
KittlBrowser-based vector and typography tool for merch and branding.
Adobe Illustrator alternatives: common questions
What is the best alternative to Adobe Illustrator?
Inkscape ranks first right now. Free, open-source vector editor for Windows, Mac and Linux. CorelDRAW and Figma follow it in our ranking.
Is there a free alternative to Adobe Illustrator?
Yes. Inkscape (open source), Figma (free plan + paid), Linearity Curve (free plan + paid) and Affinity (free plan + paid) have a free option. Check each app's verified facts for current plan limits.
Is there an open-source alternative to Adobe Illustrator?
Yes: Inkscape.
Which Adobe Illustrator alternatives work on Linux?
Inkscape runs on Linux.
Why do people switch from Adobe Illustrator?
The complaints we hear most: subscription only, no perpetual licence; steep learning curve for newcomers; expensive compared with Affinity or Inkscape.
How is this list ranked?
Every app is scored with the same published formula: how directly it replaces Adobe Illustrator, reviews (weighted by verification), visits from AppBreakup, how recently its facts were checked against its own website, and reader votes.