PureRef: A Seamless Reference Image Toolkit for Creatives

PureRef streamlines the workflow for artists and designers by providing a lightweight, user-friendly canvas to organize and view reference images without interruptions.
PureRef is a free and lightweight software designed by Idyllic Pixel that allows users to collect and organize visual references. It is a useful tool for people working in creative industries such as game development, animation, and graphic design.
Users can drag and drop images onto the PureRef canvas and arrange them in any order they like. They can zoom, pan, and rotate the canvas to view the images at the desired angle, making it easier to compare and contrast different elements of the reference material.
PureRef also provides users with various customization options, including the ability to set the canvas background color, add text and notes for each image, and change the opacity of individual images.
The software supports various image file types, including JPEG, PNG, and GIF. Users can also import images directly from their clipboard or use PureRef's built-in screengrabber to capture screenshots of their desktop or specific windows.
PureRef is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems. It is a reliable and efficient tool for organizing visual references and has become a popular choice among professionals in the creative industries.
Overview
PureRef is a Freeware software in the category Graphics Applications developed by Idyllic Pixel.
The users of our client application UpdateStar have checked PureRef for updates 31 times during the last month.
The latest version of PureRef is 1.11.1, released on 04/11/2024. It was initially added to our database on 04/26/2016. The most prevalent version is 1.11.1, which is used by 100% of all installations.
PureRef runs on the following operating systems: Windows/Mac.
PureRef has not been rated by our users yet.
Pros
- Excellent for creating mood boards, collecting inspiration, and organizing reference images
- Offers a customizable canvas layout to arrange images freely and intuitively
- Supports various image formats, including PNG, JPEG, and GIF
- Provides features like zooming, full-screen mode, and grid snapping for precise layout
- Allows for linking to external images on the web for dynamic updating
- Contains basic editing tools for simple image manipulation within the application
Cons
- Lacks advanced editing capabilities compared to dedicated graphic design software
- No collaboration features for team projects
- Limited support for organizing images beyond a flat canvas layout
FAQ
What is PureRef?
PureRef is an image and reference manager used for creative projects.
Can I add images to PureRef?
Yes, you can add images to PureRef by dragging and dropping or using the import function.
Is PureRef free?
No, PureRef is a paid software. However, it offers a 30-day free trial.
What operating systems does PureRef support?
PureRef supports Windows, Mac, and Linux.
Can I create multiple canvases in PureRef?
Yes, you can create multiple canvases in PureRef and switch between them as needed.
Can I resize images in PureRef?
Yes, you can resize images in PureRef using the scale tool or by specifying the size in pixels.
How do I move images in PureRef?
You can move images in PureRef by selecting them and dragging them to the desired location.
Can I group images in PureRef?
Yes, you can group images in PureRef by selecting them and using the group function.
Can I export my canvases from PureRef?
Yes, you can export your canvases from PureRef as image files or as a project file that can be opened in PureRef.
Does PureRef have a user manual or documentation?
Yes, PureRef has a user manual and online documentation available on its website.

Minh Ong
I'm Minh, a software engineer and author with a passion for exploring and writing about the latest in software and technology. With my experience in software development and a specialization in software updates and content creation, I bring a deep understanding of the tech landscape to my reviews and articles. My focus is on providing you with comprehensive insights into general software topics and the latest industry news.
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