Last Updated on April 16, 2022
Corel Corporation is a Canadian software company specializing in graphics processing. They are best known for developing CorelDRAW, a vector graphics editor. They are also notable for purchasing and developing AfterShot Pro, PaintShop Pro, Painter, Video Studio, MindManager, and WordPerfect.
Corel has dabbled with Linux over the years. For example they produced Corel Linux, a Debian-based distribution which bundled Corel WordPerfect Office for Linux. While Corel effectively abandoned its Linux business in 2001 they are not completely Linux-phobic. For example, AfterShot Pro has an up to date Linux version albeit its proprietary software.
This series looks at the best free and open source alternatives to products offered by Corel.
Corel PaintShop Pro is a raster and vector graphics editor. It features an interface for automating tasks with scripts written in Python. PaintShop Pro is proprietary software that’s only available for Windows.
What are the best free and open source alternatives?
1. GIMP
GIMP stands for the GNU Image Manipulation Program, a freely distributed program for photo retouching, image composition and image authoring.
GIMP offers artists the features and flexibility to create truly original artwork.
The software sports a large feature set. It can be used as a simple paint program, an expert quality photo retouching program, an online batch processing system, a mass production image renderer, an image format converter, and much more.
2. Inkscape
Inkscape is an excellent tool for illustrators, designers, artists, and web designers.
It offers a great range of drawing tools, a powerful text tool, bezier and spiro curves, all combined with a wide file format compatibility.
Inkscape sports capabilities similar to Abode Illustrator. Unlike Illustrator, Inkscape is free and open source software. Say goodbye to subscription software.
3. sK1
sK1 is an open source cross-platform vector graphics editor. The major feature of sK1 is a professional precise printing and prepress ready PDF output.
Sadly the lead developer of sK1 recently passed away from COVID-19.
4. Krita
Krita is a professional free and open source painting program. It’s made by artists that want to see affordable art tools for everyone.
Krita is really sublime open source software. It’s very easy to use, intuitive, and offers features and tools for a wide range of digital painting.
We particularly admire its excellent support for displaying brushes, its highly customizable user interface, and easy editing.
All articles in this series:
| Alternatives to Corel's Products | |
|---|---|
 | AfterShot Pro is raw image processing software offering simple photo management, good workflow, and batch processing. |
 | CorelCAD is a computer-aided design application for 2D and 3D design which supports a variety of graphic formats including DWG, DXG, CDR, SHP, and others. |
 | CorelDRAW is vector-based designing software used to create logos, flexes, brochures, invitation cards, and any kind of vector designing. |
 | DVD Copy is simple-to-use software which allows you to copy DVDs, convert HD video, output to mobile devices, and more. |
 | MindManager is mind mapping software application. MindManager can be used to manage projects, organize information, and for brainstorming. |
 | MotionStudio 3D is a 3D titling, motion graphics and effects-in one complete package. Generate 3D graphics, titles and animated text |
 | Painter is a raster-based digital art software which is used for canvas painting and offers photo-art tools. Sketch, paint, and illustrate. |
| PaintShop Pro is a raster and vector graphics editor. It features an interface for automating tasks with scripts written in Python. |
 | PDF Document Writer lets users convert documents, emails, images and other file types into a PDF for viewing and sharing. |
 | PDF Fusion is an all-in-one PDF creator that lets you assemble, edit and create PDFs. |
 | Pinnacle Studio is a full-featured, near-pro-level video editing application without a steep learning curve. |
 | VideoStudio MyDVD is DVD authoring software. Make your menus more meaningful and use the powerful tools within VideoStudio MyDVD. |
 | VideoStudio Pro is a video editing software package that offers both storyboard and timeline-oriented editing. |
 | WinDVD Pro allows you to play DVDs and Blu-rays. The player can also be used to play videos and audio/music files in other formats. |
 | WinZip is a file archiver and compressor with tools for system integration. The software also bundles an image manager and backup functionality. |
 | WordPerfect Office is an all-in-one office suite and word processing software. Document, spreadsheet, and presentation applications. |