Inkscape 1.4

★ Winner of Best Image Editor in 2017.

Overview

Inkscape is an alternative editor for graphics that is similar in functionality to CorelDraw, Xara X or Illustrator. However, the package is completely free.

Where Inkscape has its strength is the vector / SVG graphics area where users can try out creating vector graphics that may include transparencies, overlapping transparencies, markers, clones, and more.

There is both a pencil tool for some freehand drawing and a pen tool that is capable of drawing straight lines or Bézier curves. Shape tools can draw rectangles which can include rounded corners to be more attractive, ellipses that can be used as arcs, segment cut outs or circles, and polygons or stars, plus spirals too. The text tool can add text that will word wrap over to multiple lines if given enough space to do so.

Objects already placed on the canvas can be transformed by skewing their structure, rotating them, scaling them up or down in side (which with vector images doesn't lose image quality), or move the object to a different location on the canvas.

Objects can be grouped together, then manipulated as a group action.

Layers can be included with some layers locked in place, whereas others are still being worked on. Layers can be adjusted or positioned above a different layer to change its final appearance.

Color selection is also strong with RGB, HSL, CMYK, color wheel, and CMS allowing for full access to color palettes and the types of colors that are required for certain types of publications like large posters, different types of printers, etc. There is also a useful color picker.

Installation

The installation can include a Standard, Custom or Full installation. The installation can include some useful examples and tutorials to help the first time users get along with Inkscape.

There was no malicious software included with this open-source graphics package.

Inkscape requires Windows 2000, XP, 2003, XP, Vista, 7 or 8. There is also a Mac and a Linux version of Inkscape as well.

Interface

The interface has some important menu options at the top, two layers of toolbar icons below this, drawing tools down the left and right side of the application window, a color selector at the bottom, and the center of the canvas display is surrounded by a digital ruler.

Just like with any serious graphics drawing package, it is a lot to take in initially, but with some learning the package will be simple to use. There are tutorials and examples included to make it easier for the first time user too.

Pros

• Free graphics program specializing in vector graphics
• Full alpha transparency included
• Layers fully supported
• RGB, HSL, CMYK, color wheel, and CMS color selection
• Use objects on the digital canvas and then manipulate them
• Tutorials and examples can be installed with the package

Cons

• Will take study to learn how to get the most out of the software.

Conclusion

Inkscape is a terrific, free option for vector graphics support. It includes so many different features that this review cannot hope to cover them all.