Inkscape vs Affinity Photo: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Inkscape and Affinity Photo 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
- • Inkscape is a free vector graphics editor comparable to Adobe Illustrator
- • It creates and edits SVG files with professional drawing and illustration tools
Affinity Photo
Professional photo editing
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 7.7/10)
- • Professional photo editing software with one-time purchase (no subscription)
- • Full Photoshop alternative at a fraction of the cost ($70 vs $240/year)
| At a Glance |  Inkscape |  Affinity Photo |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Paid |
Best For | Graphic Design | Graphic Design |
Rating | 77/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | Inkscape | Affinity Photo |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 77 | 85 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Graphic DesignImage Editing | Graphic DesignImage Editing |
How Inkscape and Affinity Photo Compare
Inkscape
Free vector graphics editor
Free · 77/100 score
Affinity Photo
Professional photo editing
Paid · 85/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Inkscape is free. Affinity Photo is paid.
Go with: Inkscape
Want the highest-rated option?
Inkscape: 77/100. Affinity Photo: 85/100.
Go with: Affinity Photo
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Affinity Photo
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Inkscape is free. Affinity Photo is paid. Go with Inkscape if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are graphic design tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Affinity Photo scores higher: 85/100 vs 77/100.
Key Takeaways
Affinity Photo
- Higher score: 85/100 vs 77
- Our pick for this comparison
Inkscape
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
Affinity Photo (85/100) is our pick. That said, Inkscape is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Inkscape or Affinity Photo better?
Affinity Photo scores 85/100 in our evaluation. Inkscape is free and Affinity Photo is paid.
What are Inkscape and Affinity Photo used for?
Inkscape: Free vector graphics editor. Affinity Photo: Professional photo editing.
What does Inkscape cost vs Affinity Photo?
Inkscape is completely free. Affinity Photo is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.