Posted on 04-07-2025 | Category: General | Views: 13
CorelDRAW is a powerful vector graphic design software widely used for logo creation, illustrations, brochures, signboards, apparel designs, and more. Since its inception in the late 1980s, it has remained one of the most recognized names in the design industry — especially for professionals who rely on precision and scalability in their artwork.
This article presents the complete history of CorelDRAW, including its release timeline, company ownership, major features, and the best alternatives available today.
Developer/Owner: Corel Corporation (originally Corel Systems Corporation)
Founded: 1985 in Ottawa, Canada
CorelDRAW First Released: 1989
CorelDRAW was the first graphics software for Windows to offer vector illustration, page layout, and font tools in one package.
| Version Name | Release Year | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| CorelDRAW 1.0 | 1989 | First Windows vector illustration program |
| CorelDRAW 2.0 | 1991 | Improved color management and bitmap support |
| CorelDRAW 3.0 | 1992 | Corel Photo-Paint added, color separations |
| CorelDRAW 4.0 | 1993 | Text handling, better interface |
| CorelDRAW 5.0 | 1994 | Enhanced printing tools, 3D tools |
| CorelDRAW 6.0 | 1995 | Windows 95 support, improved UI |
| CorelDRAW 7.0 | 1997 | Color management, dockers introduced |
| CorelDRAW 8.0 | 1998 | Performance boost, new effects |
| CorelDRAW 9.0 | 1999 | Web graphics support, scripting |
| CorelDRAW 10 | 2000 | Dynamic guides, smart drawing |
| CorelDRAW 11 | 2002 | Symbols, text on path features |
| CorelDRAW 12 | 2004 | Snap to objects, Unicode support |
| CorelDRAW X3 (13) | 2006 | PowerTRACE (bitmap to vector), Fit Text to Path |
| CorelDRAW X4 (14) | 2008 | Live text formatting, tables, CorelDRAW ConceptShare |
| CorelDRAW X5 (15) | 2010 | CMYK preview, enhanced color profiles |
| CorelDRAW X6 (16) | 2012 | OpenType, custom workspaces |
| CorelDRAW X7 (17) | 2014 | Full UI redesign, multiple displays supported |
| CorelDRAW X8 (18) | 2016 | Windows 10 support, font management |
| CorelDRAW 2017 | 2017 | LiveSketch tool, AI-powered drawing |
| CorelDRAW 2018 | 2018 | Block shadow, symmetry tool |
| CorelDRAW 2019 | 2019 | Mac version reintroduced, non-destructive effects |
| CorelDRAW 2020 | 2020 | Collaboration tools, enhanced AI sketching |
| CorelDRAW 2021 | 2021 | Dynamic asset management, performance upgrade |
| CorelDRAW 2022 | 2022 | Variable fonts, multi-page view, enhanced exporting |
| CorelDRAW 2023 | 2023 | More cloud features, app refinements |
| CorelDRAW 2024 | 2024 | Latest UI polish, support for Windows 11/Apple M-series |
Original Owner: Corel Corporation (Canada)
Recent News: In 2019, Corel Corporation was acquired by KKR (Kohlberg Kravis Roberts), a U.S.-based private equity firm.
The brand and software continue to be marketed under the CorelDRAW Graphics Suite.
If you're looking for alternatives to CorelDRAW, especially cross-platform or free options, here are some great tools:
| Software | Platform | Type | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adobe Illustrator | Windows, Mac | Paid | Industry standard, advanced vector tools |
| Inkscape | Windows, Mac, Linux | Free/Open Source | Great for SVG, full vector editing |
| Affinity Designer | Windows, Mac | Paid (One-time) | Fast, modern, budget-friendly |
| Gravit Designer | Web-based | Freemium | Accessible from any device, easy UI |
| Vectr | Web, Desktop | Free | Lightweight for basic vector editing |
Powerful vector + bitmap design in one suite
Excellent typography and layout tools
Wide format support (CDR, AI, PDF, EPS, SVG, etc.)
Advanced printing and pre-press tools
Affordable licensing vs Adobe in some cases
Ideal for signage, apparel, DTP, logo design