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Inkscape is an open source vector graphics editor similar to Adobe Illustrator, Corel Draw, Freehand, or Xara X. What sets Inkscape apart is the use of Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG), an open XML-based W3C standard, as its native format. .

Unlike raster (bitmap) graphics editors like Photoshop or Gimp, Inkscape stores its graphics in vector format. Vector graphics are resolution-independent descriptions of the actual shapes and objects you see in an image. The rasterization engine uses this information to determine how to draw each line and curve at any resolution or zoom level.

Compare this to raster (raster) graphics, which are always bound to a specific resolution and store the image as a grid of pixels.

Inkscape can also import and display bitmaps. The imported bitmap becomes just another object in your vector graphics, and you can do everything with it that you can do with other types of objects (move, transform, crop, etc.).

Although Inkscape does not have all the features of the leading vector editors, the latest versions provide most of the basic vector graphics editing capabilities. People report successful use of Inkscape in a wide variety of projects (web graphics, technical diagrams, icons, creative art, logos, maps).