Adobe Illustrator vs. CorelDRAW Graphics Suite vs. Inkscape

Graphic design software

Comparison of Adobe Illustrator, CorelDRAW Graphics Suite and Inkscape
Adobe Illustrator

The industry standard for vector design, with the deepest toolset. It is subscription only.

CorelDRAW Graphics Suite

A full design suite that is strong for print and sign work. It is expensive.

Inkscape

A capable free and open-source vector editor. The interface feels dated and it slows down on complex files.

Real cost
Price 26 € per month 369 € per year 0 €
Payment Subscription Subscription Free
Trial 7-day trial 15-day trial No trial
Free Tier No free tier No free tier No free tier
Open Source No No Yes
Features and limits
Main Features
  • Precise vector drawing tools
  • Works with Photoshop and InDesign
  • Large font library included
  • Generative tools
  • Industry-standard file format
  • Vector illustration and page layout
  • Strong tools for print and signs
  • Photo editor included
  • Bitmap to vector tracing
  • Font manager included
  • Full vector drawing toolset
  • Uses the open SVG format
  • Text on paths and shape tools
  • Extensions
  • Imports many file formats
Limits
  • Subscription only
  • Takes time to learn
  • High price
  • Less common outside print and sign work
  • The interface feels dated
  • Slow with very complex files
Compatibility and trust
Supported Operating Systems
WindowsmacOS
WindowsmacOS
WindowsmacOS
Verified on
Where to buy
Vendor Go to vendor’s site: Adobe Illustrator (opens in a new tab)

Subscription. Approximate list price in euros, check the vendor.

Go to vendor’s site: CorelDRAW Graphics Suite (opens in a new tab)

Subscription. Approximate list price in euros, check the vendor.

Go to vendor’s site: Inkscape (opens in a new tab)

Free, open source.