Affinity Designer vs Inkscape
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
Pro vector design, one-time purchase.
The verdict
Both Affinity Designer and Inkscape are credible graphic design tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Choose Affinity Designer if you want a longer free trial (14 days) and a higher overall rating (4.7/5). Pro vector design, one-time purchase.
Choose Inkscape if you'd rather have a lower starting price (free) and a free plan to start on. Free, open-source vector graphics.
Affinity Designer vs Inkscape: side by side
| Dimension | Affinity Designer | Inkscape |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | From $69.99 once | FreeWinner |
| Free plan | No | YesWinner |
| Free trial | 14 daysWinner | — |
| Pricing model | One-time | Open source |
| Best for | Designers, Budget Conscious | Budget Conscious, Hobbyists |
| Platforms | Windows, Mac, Ios | Windows, Mac, Linux |
| Rating | 4.7/5Winner | 4.4/5 |
Affinity Designer key facts
- Vendor
- Canva
- Pricing
- One-time — From $69.99 once
- Free tier
- Free trial (14 days)
- Platforms
- Windows, Mac, Ios
- Best for
- Designers, Budget Conscious
- Editor rating
- 4.7 / 5
- Founded
- 2014
- Headquarters
- Nottingham, UK
Inkscape key facts
- Vendor
- Inkscape
- Pricing
- Open source — Free
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Windows, Mac, Linux
- Best for
- Budget Conscious, Hobbyists
- Editor rating
- 4.4 / 5
- Founded
- 2003
- Headquarters
- Open source
Frequently asked questions
Is Affinity Designer better than Inkscape?
Neither is universally better — Affinity Designer edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Affinity Designer or Inkscape cheaper?
Inkscape is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free. Affinity Designer starts at from $69.99 once; Inkscape starts at free.
Can Affinity Designer replace Inkscape?
Yes for most teams — both are graphic design tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.