Xfig is a free and open-source vector graphics editor which runs under the X Window System on most UNIX-compatible platforms. In Xfig, figures may be drawn using objects such as circles, boxes, lines, spline curves, text, etc. It is also possible to import images in a number of formats, including JPEG, EPS, PostScript, and SVG. Those objects can be created, deleted, moved or modified. Attributes such as colors or line styles can be selected in various ways. For text, 35 fonts are available. Xfig saves figures in its native text-only "Fig" format. Xfig has a facility to print figures to a PostScript printer, too. A convenient feature is the PSTricks or PGF/TikZ packages code that allows a smooth integration of Xfig-generated images into LaTeX documents. However, through the EPS export facility, figures can be imbedded into groff documents also, when rendered to PostScript, e. g. though grops. Most operations in Xfig are performed using the mouse, but some operations may also be performed using keyboard accelerators (shortcuts). The interface is designed for a three-button mouse, although it is also possible to use a two-button or a one-button mouse with appropriate emulation, for example on a Macintosh under OS X.

History

Xfig was written by Supoj Sutanthavibul in 1985 for SunView. Ken Yap ported xfig to X11. In 1989, Brian V. Smith added many features. In 1991, Paul King added many features including overhauling the GUI for version 2.0. In 1997, Tom Sato added Japanese text support, spell checker, and search/replace.

Imports

Xfig can import various files as images:

Exports

Xfig can export into various formats: