3 Best Open Source Alternatives to Illustrator

3 open source alternatives100% OSI-approved licensesUpdated June 2026

Looking to replace Illustrator? These open source alternatives give you the same core workflow without the lock-in - free to use, often self-hostable, and auditable on GitHub. Compare licenses, languages and project activity, then switch on your own terms.

Graphite logo

1.Graphite

26.3kApache-2.0Rust
Graphite screenshot

Graphite is a free, open source 2D content creation app for vector and raster graphics, available in alpha as an online editor. It began as a vector editor and is evolving into a broader graphics toolbox for graphic design, digital art, and interactive real-time motion graphics.

  • Vector and raster graphics editing
  • Fully nondestructive editing workflow
  • Layer-based compositing
  • Node-based generative design core
Akira logo

2.Akira

5.3kGPL-3.0Vala
Akira screenshot

Akira is a native Linux design application for UI and UX design. It is built in Vala and GTK and targets web designers and graphic designers who want to use Linux as their main operating system.

  • Native Linux UI and UX design application
  • Built in Vala and GTK
  • Targets web designers and graphic designers
  • Alpha release available for testing
Inkscape logo

3.Inkscape

3.6kOther
Inkscape screenshot

Inkscape is free and open source vector graphics software for Windows, macOS, and Linux. It is used to create illustrations, icons, logos, diagrams, maps, and web graphics, serving both design professionals and hobbyists.

  • Vector graphics creation for illustrations, icons, logos, and diagrams
  • Uses W3C SVG as its native file format
  • Creates maps and web graphics
  • Runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux desktops

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