Inkscape vs Affinity Designer: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Inkscape and Affinity Designer comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Inkscape
Free vector graphics editor
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • You need graphic design features specifically
- • Inkscape is a free vector graphics editor comparable to Adobe Illustrator
- • It creates and edits SVG files with professional drawing and illustration tools
Affinity Designer
Professional vector graphics
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 7.7/10)
- • You need ui/ux design features specifically
- • Affinity Designer is a professional vector graphics editor that rivals Adobe Illustrator
- • It offers precise drawing tools, non-destructive effects, and both vector and raster workspaces
| At a Glance |  Inkscape |  Affinity Designer |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Paid |
Best For | Graphic Design | UI/UX Design |
Rating | 77/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Inkscape | Affinity Designer |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 77 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Graphic DesignImage Editing | UI/UX DesignGraphic Design |
How Inkscape and Affinity Designer Compare
Inkscape
Free vector graphics editor
Free · 77/100 score
Affinity Designer
Professional vector graphics
Paid · 86/100 score
Inkscape is a graphic design tool. Affinity Designer is in ui/ux design.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Inkscape is free. Affinity Designer is paid.
Go with: Inkscape
Want the highest-rated option?
Inkscape: 77/100. Affinity Designer: 86/100.
Go with: Affinity Designer
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Affinity Designer
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Inkscape is free. Affinity Designer is paid. Go with Inkscape if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Inkscape is a graphic design tool. Affinity Designer is in ui/ux design. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Affinity Designer scores higher: 86/100 vs 77/100.
Key Takeaways
Affinity Designer
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 77
- Our pick for this comparison
Inkscape
- Completely free
- Better fit for graphic design
The Bottom Line
Affinity Designer (86/100) is our pick. That said, Inkscape is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Inkscape or Affinity Designer better?
Affinity Designer scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Inkscape is free and Affinity Designer is paid.
What are Inkscape and Affinity Designer used for?
Inkscape: Free vector graphics editor. Affinity Designer: Professional vector graphics.
What does Inkscape cost vs Affinity Designer?
Inkscape is completely free. Affinity Designer is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.