AutoTrace is a free desktop program for converting bitmap images into vector graphics. It can trace shape outlines or centerlines, reduce colors, and despeckle images to reduce noise. Listed input formats include PNG, BMP, TGA, PNM, and GF; ImageMagick or GraphicsMagick adds JPEG, TIFF, GIF, and other formats. Output formats include SVG, EPS, PDF, AI, DXF, CGM, EMF, MIF, ER, and Fig. The project documents command-line conversion and use through the libautotrace library. Installation options include package managers for macOS, Linux, and FreeBSD, Windows installers, or building from source. A source build requires a C compiler and GLib 2.58 or newer; libpng and ImageMagick or GraphicsMagick are optional dependencies. The program is licensed under GPL v2 or later, while the library uses LGPL v2.1 or later. The latest listed release is 0.31.10. The project README describes the graphical frontend as inactive and directs users to its issue tracker for support and contributions.
Who it is for
AutoTrace suits people who need command-line bitmap tracing or want to use the libautotrace library. It may also suit users comfortable installing desktop software or building it from source.
What is good
- Free desktop software.
- Can trace outlines or centerlines.
- Offers color reduction and despeckling.
- Supports multiple vector output formats.
- Documented installation options include Windows installers.
What to know first
- Graphical frontend is described as inactive.
- Source builds require a C compiler and GLib 2.58 or newer.
- Some input formats require ImageMagick or GraphicsMagick.
Verdict
AutoTrace provides bitmap-to-vector conversion with command-line and library use, plus multiple output formats. Its inactive graphical frontend and optional dependencies for expanded input formats may shape how you use it.
Compared on image vectorization software
- Free plan
- Yes
- Tracing modes
- full-color
- Available platforms
- desktop
- Vector output formats
- SVG, EPS, PDF, AI, DXF, CGM, EMF, MIF, ER, Fig
- Maximum color count
- 256 colors
