Comprehensive Inkscape Review for Graphic Designers in 2023

Jack

By Jack

Update on

Inkscape Review

Inkscape is considered to be a leading vector graphic editing software. However, the best thing about this software is that it comes for free.

But, if you are a novice graphic designer, should you go for Inscape just because it’s free? Let’s find it out with this Inkscape review.

Inkscape comes with an attractive tagline saying ‘Draw Freely.’ In fact, if you can use professional vector software for free, that’s great! Moreover, it works just great with both Windows and Mac operating systems.

If you are a novice graphic designer who just wants to try free vector software, Inkscape is fine. But you should also know that Inkscape has a steep learning curve on top of its complicated interface.

Particularly for a Mac user, the interface issue can be pretty devastating.

Inkscape Introduction

Basically, Inkscape is a vector graphics editor. This app is totally free to download. It can be used on Windows, Mac, and even Linux-based operating systems. This can be good news if you are already fed up with subscription-based or expensive graphic designing tools.

However, on the other hand, you will have to spend a considerable amount of time learning Inscape’s features. Things can be even more difficult for you if you’ve already gotten used to software like CorelDRAW or Illustrator.

Inkscape is software that can be categorized as open-source software. That means the authors will hold the copyright of the software, but the public can edit the source code. In other words, the public, too, can contribute to developing this vector editing tool.

Besides, here is the top best multimedia software for your reference.

Inkscape

Inscape Interface on Microsoft Windows

When it comes to the Windows platform, Inkscape mainly supports the SVG file format (Scalable Vector Graphic). This is an open file format that works across all platforms. SVG files don’t lose quality, but they come pretty compact.

This can be highly beneficial when it comes to sharing files. In addition to that, SVG format becomes incredibly handy when you create graphics for the web.

SVG files can be uploaded and downloaded quickly, taking substantially less space from your server. All the mainstream web browsers we see today are compatible with the SVG file format.

Inkscape can import .AI, CDR, and other common vector graphic formats. However, before that, you should have the assistance of the utility called UniConverter. You might lose some of the information related to these files during the translation.

Inkscape Review: How Much Does It Cost?

When it comes to the cost factor, downloading Inkscape is free. You can download Inkscape from their official website (Inkscape.org). Getting it downloaded and installed is a pretty straightforward process.

However, this software doesn’t support Windows XP or below. When it comes to Mac, you can download it from the app store. If you are a GNU/Linux user, you can find a format like Flatpack, PPA, Snap, etc.

When it comes to Mac, installation of Inkscape is not as easy as you would expect. On Mac, you also have to install a particular GUI with Inkscape. This program is called XQuartz to get it displayed.

However, if you want to go for a more stable version, you will also have to use MacPorts. This can be achieved if you have XCode installed. However, when you install Inkscape that way, it might also have some issues. After all, installing a third-party app always poses a risk to your device.

Once the files are downloaded, you should install them. Make sure that you override the active browser security settings as well.

Vector and Raster graphics

Programs like Inkscape are developed to be compatible with vector graphics. Fundamentally, Inkscape, Illustrator, and CorelDRAW fall into this category. These programs function in a pretty different manner compared to raster-based software like Photoshop.

In general, vector graphics comprise lines, curves, points, etc. One of the main advantages associated with vector graphics is that they can be enlarged infinitely while retaining quality.

In other words, vector graphics don’t lose their quality even if they are enlarged infinitely. This characteristic becomes an advantage when you design massive artworks (such as billboards).

Another significant advantage of vector graphics is that they come with smaller file size than raster graphics. This becomes exceptionally beneficial, particularly when it comes to creating graphics for web-based projects.

When the file size is smaller, the images tend to load faster and provide a greater user experience.

On the other hand, raster graphics (that are created using tools like Photoshop) are made out of pixels. When you enlarge these images, the pixels get enlarged as well. You will see a bunch of pixels instead of the image at a certain point. This is called pixelation.

Vector and Raster graphics

Interface and Speed

No matter whether you use it on a Mac or Windows, Inkscape doesn’t offer a visually appealing interface. In particular, things are even more complicated when it comes to mac. The antialiasing issues make everything look chunky in Mac.

This is particularly because Macs are supposed to use a relatively less stable version of the software. Such a version is usually incompatible with the Retina display and high-res Mac screen by the time of this writing.

Although the Inkscape interface appears to be somewhat smoother when it comes to Windows, it doesn’t support touch or a stylus. In fact, Inkscape is not perfectly optimized for high-res DPI Windows computers.

In the interface, there are plenty of things. In fact, it looks like too much at once. You can hide some of the panels to make the interface a little bit clearer and neater. This is a useful approach at least until you learn the basics of the interface items.

To access this feature, you can go to the ‘View’ menu and select ‘Hide.’ Then, you can hide some of the panels. The palettes and panels in Inkscape are known as dialogs.

Tools Control Bar is located at the top of the Inkscape window. Towards the immediate right of it, you find Snap Controls Bar. Move further right, and you will find the Command Bar. Towards the left of the screen, you find the main Toolbox.

Then, towards the bottom, you see the Status bar with Color Palette. If you want to play more with the interface and customize it, show or hide the Rulers. In addition to that, you can hide or show Scroll Bars, Dialog Boxes, and Guides.

text in inkscape

Inkscape as a Designing Tool

When you consider Inkscape as a designing tool, several options exist. Basically, designers engage with aspects like Typography, Bezier Curves, and the preparation of files to export. Designers often practice these activities. Now, in this Inkscape review, let’s see how those activities are performed using Inkscape.

When it comes to text handling, Inkscape comes with basic tools. These tools are similar to what you usually find with word-processing programs. But some characteristics set this program apart from word processing programs. For instance, Inkscape can create standalone text lines.

Also, it can create frameless text lines. It also creates paragraph-type text. You can use the ‘Flow Text’ feature to set any text line into shape. Also, with ‘Regular Text,’ you can run the text along any path.

However, the Flow Text feature of Inkscape doesn’t work outside the app. In that case, you will have to convert the same into Regular Text before exporting the file.

Formatting features associated with Inkscape are not that flexible compared to CorelDRAW and Illustrator. It is pretty complicated to access OpenType features. Also, some of the features are to be manually applied.

It cannot create a paragraph or character style. In addition to that, spot formatting inside the ‘Flow Text’ doesn’t work. Nevertheless, it has a pretty impressive spellchecker tool. This, of course, is better compared to illustrator.

There is an impressive toolset to create, edit, and transform the vector graphics you use. Each of these tools comes with separate dialog boxes. These boxes can be opened up using a double-click (on the tool).

It offers a wide range of options for dealing with different text messages. It supports creating shapes like angles, shapes based on curves, and special polygons. The toolset comprises a brush, a pen, a pencil, a spiral, an object sprayer, and a paint bucket.

This software is capable of handling point-to-point gradients as well as mesh-type filling. It also has a unique tool called Diagram Connector. To add a perspective line on the shapes, you can use a 3D Box tool. Sculpt/Paint tool of this software allows you to push and nudge the paths.

A handy tracing tool is included in this software. This can be used to transform black & white images and color images into vector graphics. However, some users tend to experience a crash in this tool whenever they open it.

After drawing a shape, however, you will find a handy range of snapping tools. These tools can help you in placing the created shapes.

Inkscape Filters and File Extensions

Inkscape Filters and File Extensions

Playing with filters and potential plugins is usually fun with any app. Well, Inkscape is offering you a range of effects with its basic version. To access these features, you should go to ‘Filters.’

Then, you will see that there are ten categories listed. Most of these categories show at least a dozen of effects and options. To make it more exciting, Inkscape offers a tool that can edit the filters.

Filters and plugins are exciting in Inkscape. However, the tools included in the ‘Extensions’ section offers you more fun. With this feature, you can actually convert textual content into braille. Also, you can use it to create bar codes, calendars, etc.

All in all, the filters and extensions included in Inkscape are just awesome. It can help you create various beautiful and professional-looking artworks.

Inkscape Output Options

Well, output options are a really crucial part associated with any graphic designing software. That is because the output is what matters after hours of your artwork. It becomes useless if you cannot export your file using a standard file format.

Well, in that case, Inkscape users are pretty lucky. That is because the main output format of Inkscape is widely accepted. They offer SVG file format, which is considered a standard file in the graphics industry.

Inkscape Output Options

However, Inkscape doesn’t support CMYK or Pantone color specifications. Well, if you are going to design an artwork to be printed, this is going to be problematic. In that case, you will have to consider two options.

You can either ask the printer to convert the files to the CMYK version before printing. If not, you should use a separate program to convert the files before sending them to the printer.

Things are easier if you create artwork for computer, mobile, or web using Inkscape. You can use file formats like SVG, PMG, or HTML in this case.

However, there is one limitation. Inkscape doesn’t export the files in JPEG format. This means that you will have to use another program to do the conversion.

Drawbacks Associated with Inkscape on a Mac

It is absolutely right that Inkscape is free. We have mentioned it at the beginning of this Inkscape review. However, when it comes to Mac, there are some significant drawbacks associated with this tool.

For instance, you will have to face compatibility issues. It doesn’t work with typefaces as well as with some font managers. Besides, it doesn’t work with global widgets such as Magnet.

Interestingly, Inkscape offers very limited support in terms of key commands. Those who have gotten used to key commands will find Inkscape on Mac to be an overwhelming task.

There are some issues with using the Shift key to constrain the aspect ratio of the objects. It also doesn’t allow copying and pasting from external applications.

Moreover, it doesn’t present a menu bar beneath the window. It makes it difficult for the user to access the other programs.

Comparing Inkscape with Other Design Tools

Every tool has its pros and cons, and Inkscape is no exception. When compared to other popular design software, how does it fare?

Inkscape vs. Adobe Illustrator

While Illustrator is a paid tool, Inkscape is entirely free. In terms of capabilities, Inkscape matches most of what Illustrator offers. However, Illustrator does have more advanced features and better integration with other Adobe products.

Inkscape vs. CorelDRAW

In comparison to CorelDRAW, Inkscape provides similar functionality. But CorelDRAW’s more intuitive interface and rich feature set may make it a more suitable choice for complex designs.

Conclusion: Is Inkscape Worth it?

Inkscape is a powerful, free tool that gives other paid graphic design tools a run for their money. With a robust set of features, an intuitive interface, and a supportive community, it is a worthwhile choice for anyone interested in graphic design, from beginners to professionals.

5 Frequently Asked Questions about Inkscape

  1. Is Inkscape really free? Yes, Inkscape is a completely free and open-source software.
  2. Can Inkscape replace Adobe Illustrator? While Inkscape is a powerful tool, whether it can replace Illustrator depends on your specific needs and the complexity of your projects.
  3. Is Inkscape good for beginners? Absolutely. Inkscape’s intuitive interface and helpful community make it a great starting point for beginners.
  4. Can I use Inkscape professionally? Yes, many professional designers use Inkscape for their projects.
  5. What file formats does Inkscape support? Inkscape primarily uses SVG but supports many other formats including EPS, PDF, PNG, and more.
Jack
Jack

Ten years of experience in information and computer technology. Passionate about electronic devices, smartphones, computers, and modern technology.

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