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inkscape-1.4.2
| System | Format | Link | Verification |
|---|---|---|---|
 Linux | appimage AMD64 |  | |
 Mac OS | dmg AMD64 | | |
Mac OS | dmg ARM64 | | |
 Windows | exe AMD64 | | |
Windows | zip AMD64 | |
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Inkscape
0
Nov. 2, 2003
Overview
Inkscape is a free and open source vector graphics editor (GPL 2.0+) launched in 2003 that uses Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) for scalable designs such as logos, diagrams, and web graphics. It supports Windows, macOS, and Linux and is a community-driven alternative to Adobe Illustrator.
History and Development
Founded: 2003, forked from Sodipodi (1999) based on GILL.
Important Milestones:
- 2005: Joined Google Summer of Code.
- 2015: Version 0.91 implements SVG 1.1.
- 2020: Inkscape 1.0 updates the user interface and adds local environment variables (LPE).
- 2024: Version 1.4 introduces modular grids and filter libraries.
- 2025: 1.4.2 adds path cleanup and Affinity support.
Status: community driven, hosted on GitLab, uses GTK4.
Main Features
- Vector editing: SVG based, supports paths, nodes, primitives (rectangles, stars).
- Shape/Path tools: live path effects (tiling, booleans), node editing.
- Text editing: fonts, kerning, path-based text.
- File formats: import PNG, AI, PDF; export PNG, EPS.
- Layers/clones: adjustable stacking, live updating of clones.
- Symbol library: logic gates, pictograms.
- Image tracing: raster to vector conversion.
- Modular grid: flexible layout (1.4).
- Tutorials: interactive, built-in (basics, shapes, advanced).
Advantages and Limitations
Advantages
- Free, open source, GPL 2.0+.
- Scalable SVG for web/print.
- Cross-platform (Windows, macOS, Linux).
- Feature-rich, comparable to Illustrator.
- Strong community and tutorials.
- Browser-compatible SVG output.
Limitations
- High learning curve for beginners.
- Slow when working with large files.
- Limited raster editing capabilities.
- Outdated user interface (pre-GTK4).
- Unstable on macOS.
- Lack of advanced 3D tools.
Summary
Inkscape is a powerful vector graphics editor for scalable SVG design, perfect for logos, web assets, and charts. Its open source nature, cross-platform support, and features like Localization Enhancement (LPE) and modular grids make it versatile, but it has a high learning curve and limited performance.
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