Yes, Inkscape is free. Inkscape describes itself as a free and open source vector graphics editor for Linux, Windows and macOS, and it doesn't have a premium version. The files you save or export from it belong to you.
The question behind the question is usually whether you can use it for client work and logos. You can, and Inkscape's licence page says so in plain terms. Here's what Inkscape gives you, how the licence works and where it fits next to Adobe Illustrator.
What you get with Inkscape
- A full vector editor with no trial, no tiers and no account to create.
- SVG as its main format, which Inkscape points out is supported by many other apps, including web browsers.
- Import and export of SVG, AI, EPS, PDF, PS and PNG files.
- Windows, macOS and Linux versions, from the same project.
Inkscape's FAQ says people use it for web graphics, technical diagrams, icons, logos, maps and art, and that thousands of images on Wikipedia were made with it.
Can you use Inkscape for commercial work?
Yes. Inkscape's licence page says all files saved or exported from Inkscape, such as SVG, PNG or PDF, are owned by the people who made them. If you build on someone else's artwork, that original author's rights still apply to their part.
| Question | Answer from Inkscape |
|---|---|
| Do I own logos I design in Inkscape? | Yes, files you save or export are yours |
| Does the GPL apply to my drawings? | Only if the output contains part of the program itself |
| Is running Inkscape restricted? | No, the licence says running the program isn't restricted |
| Who's behind Inkscape? | A member project of the Software Freedom Conservancy, a US non-profit |
The licence point is worth understanding. Inkscape is under the GNU GPL, and the licence text says the output of the program is only covered if it contains a work based on the program itself. Your artwork doesn't, so you can use it however you like.
Inkscape vs Adobe Illustrator
Inkscape is a vector editor, so the closest comparison is Adobe Illustrator rather than a photo editor. Inkscape's FAQ explains why vectors suit logos, text and design layouts: they scale cleanly, while raster graphics suit photographs. A few things to know before you switch:
- Inkscape opens AI files, which helps if a client sends one.
- It saves natively in SVG, so your files open in browsers and many other apps.
- It's run by volunteers under a non-profit, so support comes from the community and the official documentation.
File formats: what Inkscape opens and saves
Inkscape's FAQ goes further than the about page. It says Inkscape can also import CorelDRAW (CDR) and Visio (VSD) files, and save to formats including SVG, PDF, EPS, LaTeX and HPGL. It can import most raster formats, such as JPEG, PNG and GIF, as images inside your drawing.
There's one export quirk to know: Inkscape only exports PNG for raster images. If you need a JPEG, the FAQ suggests converting the PNG in another program such as GIMP, or using an extension.
Printing in CMYK
Print shops often ask for CMYK files. Inkscape's FAQ suggests importing your SVG into Scribus, a free desktop publishing program, adjusting the colour profiles there and letting Scribus produce the print file. You can also set CMYK values in Inkscape first and carry them into Scribus.
Inkscape has been around a long time, too. Its FAQ says it started in late 2003 as a fork of an earlier editor called Sodipodi.
Who Inkscape suits
- Small business owners making logos, social graphics and simple print pieces.
- Crafters cutting SVG files on a cutting machine.
- Students and teachers who need vector diagrams without a classroom licence.
- Web designers making icons, banners and mockups, which Inkscape's FAQ says many people use it for.
If you mostly edit photos rather than draw shapes and text, Inkscape is the wrong tool. Its FAQ says raster editors suit photographs better, and recommends vectors for logos, text and design layouts.
How to start with Inkscape
- Download Inkscape from inkscape.org for Windows, macOS or Linux.
- Install it and open a new document. There's no sign-in.
- Draw with the shape and pen tools, then save as Inkscape SVG to keep everything editable.
- Export a PNG for the web or a PDF for print when you're done.
If you're weighing your options, my roundup of Illustrator alternatives compares Inkscape with other vector tools, and my guide on where to get free SVG files gives you ready-made graphics to edit in it.
My verdict: Inkscape is free, open source and safe to use for client work, because the files you make are yours. If you need vector design and don't want a monthly plan, it's the first thing I'd try.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Inkscape completely free?
Yes. Inkscape is free and open source software for Windows, macOS and Linux, with no premium version.
Can I use Inkscape for commercial use?
Yes. Inkscape's licence page says files saved or exported from Inkscape are owned by the people who made them, so you can use them for client work.
Does the GPL licence affect my Inkscape designs?
No. The licence says output is only covered if it contains a work based on the program itself, which your artwork doesn't.
Can Inkscape open Illustrator files?
Yes. Inkscape says it can import SVG, AI, EPS, PDF, PS and PNG files.
Who makes Inkscape?
Inkscape is a member project of the Software Freedom Conservancy, a US non-profit organisation.
Can Inkscape export JPEG files?
No. Inkscape's FAQ says it only exports PNG for raster images, so convert the PNG in another program such as GIMP if you need a JPEG.
Can Inkscape open CorelDRAW files?
Yes. Inkscape's FAQ says it can import CorelDRAW (CDR) and Visio (VSD) files natively.
How do I print Inkscape designs in CMYK?
Inkscape's FAQ suggests importing your SVG into Scribus and adjusting the colour profiles there before producing the print file.
Is Inkscape like Adobe Illustrator?
Yes, in type. Inkscape's FAQ describes it as an open source vector graphics editor similar to Adobe Illustrator, CorelDRAW, Freehand or Xara X.
Can I add photos to an Inkscape design?
Yes. Inkscape's FAQ says imported raster images become objects in your drawing that you can move, transform and clip.
Does Inkscape run on Linux?
Yes. Inkscape is available for Linux, Windows and macOS from the same open source project.
