Vector graphics software is another type of image editing software that uses geometric and mathematical commands to design images. It doesn’t use the regular clicks and swipes used by popular photo editing programs like MS Paint and Adobe Photoshop. An image or graph consists of points and coordinates that curves and lines can connect. The resulting graphics from the results can be scaled up and down without losing quality. The most common examples are logos, fonts, animations, and 3D visualizations and saved in formats such as EPS, PDF, WMF, SVG, or VML. This guide will help you choose the best vector graphics software for your Mac.
Adobe Illustrator is considered one of the best vector graphics software, but people are looking for cheaper alternatives because of its price. Below is a list of various vector design software, including free vector software.
Best 10 Vector Graphics Software For MAC
1. Inkscape
Let’s start the list of the best vector design software with a free vector software called Inkscape. This open-source application supports full compatibility with W3C open standard SVG files. This app requires XQuartz to be downloaded on your system to run Inkscape. It supports features for creating and editing objects, text support, rendering, and fill/stroke functions.
Special Features:
- Supported on all major platforms (Mac, Windows, and Cloud)
- Documentation and help forums are available
- Used for marketing, branding, engineering, caricature, and web graphics.
- Pricing: Free
2. Vectr
In our list of the best vector graphics software, we have another free vector software called Vectr. This vector design software is based on web technology and has been declared free forever. Supports the creation of logos, brochures, posters, and other vector images.
Special Features:
- Supports Windows, Linux, Chrome OS, and macOS (browser version only)
- User guide and tutorial available
- Contains tools for collaboration and image manipulation.
- Pricing: Free
3. LibreOffice Sweepstakes
Another free vector software on the list is LibreOffice Draw, created by the parent company LibreOffice. This organization brings open source alternatives to all Microsoft Office products and differentiates itself by introducing vector design software called Draw. Many users claim that it has fewer features than other vector graphics software, but it is worth trying.
Special Features:
- Easily create flowcharts and diagrams.
- Support technical drawings and brochures
- Create a radar chart
- Pricing: Free
4. Square SVG
Boxy SVG is one of the best vector graphics software that supports PNG, JPEG, and GIF in addition to SVG files. Works as a web version and macOS app from the App Store. It allows users to use conversion tools, grouping tools, drawing tools, and preserve gradients and patterns.
Special Features:
- Contains developer tools.
- Built-in keyboard shortcut.
- Supports Windows, iOS, Android, Mac, Linux, cloud-based and cloud-based versions.
- Price: $9.99 per month
5. Autodesk Graphics
One of the best vector graphics software is Autodesk Graphic, formerly known as iDraw. It’s easy to use and has powerful features that make it a great vector design software for Mac. It supports many file formats such as SVG, PDF, and even Adobe Illustrator format. Photoshop users can import and export multilayer PSD files.
Special Features:
- Extensive tools for drawing and sketching
- Packed with SVG editor features.
- Sync between iCloud and iPad
- Price: $29.99 per month
6. Pixelmator Pro
Leading the list of vector graphics software is Pixelmator Pro, which supports vector graphics with shapes, curves, and lines. It consists of an extensive collection of built-in shapes and tools, which reduces the time and effort required to create new shapes. It includes a GPU imaging module that allows users to make any changes they need.
Special Features:
- Edit images by layers
- Preset workspaces for photography, illustration, design, and drawing
- Live histogram with RGB, luminance, and color modes
- Price: $39.99 per month
7. Affinity designer
Talking about vector design software, there is one that should not be missed: Affinity Designer. This app is an enhanced version of Affinity Photos and was introduced by Serif Labs as a vector editor. It includes an exclusive PSD import mechanism and supports other PDF, SVG, AI, Freehand, and EPS formats.
Special Features:
- Channel processing is set to 16 bit.
- Graphics tablet support
- Tools include curve editing, grid-style effects, and flexible text.
- Price: $49.99 per month
8. Sketch Vector Graphics Software
At the bottom of our list of the best vector graphics software, we have Sketch, which seems expensive but judging by the features that make it worth the money. This tool helps users create high-quality vector images and has an accompanying Sketch Mirror application to visualize your projects at work. It contains many grids and guides to help render text and other essential elements when creating vector graphics.
Special Features:
- Advanced user interface
- Community resources and iOS development kit.
- Trial version for 15 days
- Price: $99.99 per month
9. Corel Draw
If you are looking for a cheaper alternative to Adobe Illustrator and want the same features, Corel Draw ends your search. Readily available on the Apple Mac App Store, this app has excellent vector illustration tools with which you can turn simple lines into intricate works of art. Users can create brochures, newsletters, multi-page documents, and more and change colors, font sizes and styles, shading, and more.
Special Features:
- Multilingual support
- Clothing and textile design, including
- Side Car Support for iPad and Apple Pencil
- Price $ 34.99 per month
10. Crete Vector Graphics Software
Last on the list is the free Krita vector software, an excellent drawing app for creating new illustrations and editing old ones. Contains pastels, watercolors, oil and charcoal paints, plus pencils, brushes, and pens. The program supports both raster and vector formats and includes templates for layers and panels.
Special Features:
- Supports Mac, Windows, Linux, and web-based applications.
- Allows users to create and edit 2D images
- Various animation templates are included.
- Price $ 34.99 per month
Concluding Remarks on vector graphics software for Mac
This completes the list of the best vector graphics software, and the decision to choose is yours. I suggest you choose free software like Inkscape, Vector, LibreOffice draw, and Krita first. However, if you already use Adobe Illustrator and are looking for an alternative, you just need to choose CorelDraw or Sketch. Lastly, for mid-budget and maximum functionality, Autodesk Graphic is available.