Contrary to popular belief, Adobe Photoshop price is quite affordable, starting at just $9.99 per month. Most people also don’t know that you can get the complete version of Photoshop for free for 7 days.
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Despite its low cost and powerful features, free alternatives to Photoshop are worth considering before you make a commitment to learning one.
Best free Photoshop alternatives
1. GIMP
Overview: GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) is a powerful open-source image editing software that is often considered the best free alternative to Adobe Photoshop. It offers a wide range of advanced features and tools, making it suitable for professional image editing, photo retouching, graphic design, and more. GIMP’s interface may not be as polished as Photoshop’s, but its extensive capabilities make it a popular choice among users who require a robust image editor without the cost of a subscription.
Pros:
- Free and open-source
- Cross-platform compatibility (Windows, macOS, Linux)
- Highly customizable with numerous plugins and extensions
- Wide range of features and tools comparable to Photoshop
- Supports various file formats, including PSD
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve compared to some other alternatives
- Interface not as polished and user-friendly as Photoshop
- Some features may require manual installation of plugins
- Performance can be slower on lower-end hardware
- Lacks some advanced features found in Photoshop, such as Content-Aware Fill and Camera RAW
2. Krita
Overview: Krita is a free and open-source digital painting and illustration software that has gained popularity among artists and designers. While it is primarily focused on painting and drawing, Krita also offers a range of image editing features that make it a viable Photoshop alternative. The interface is user-friendly and customizable, with a variety of brushes and tools that cater to the needs of both beginners and professionals.
Pros:
- Free and open-source
- Cross-platform compatibility (Windows, macOS, Linux)
- Designed for digital artists, with a variety of brushes and tools
- Supports various file formats, including PSD
- Customizable interface with the ability to create and import custom brushes
Cons:
- More focused on digital painting and illustration, with fewer image editing features compared to Photoshop
- Some features may not be as advanced or refined as those in Photoshop
- Performance can be slower on lower-end hardware
- The learning curve may be steep for users new to digital painting
- Lacks some advanced features found in Photoshop, such as Camera RAW and certain adjustment layers
3. Paint.NET
Overview: Paint.NET is a lightweight, user-friendly image editor that offers a good range of tools and features, making it suitable for casual users and those who need to perform basic image editing tasks. It started as a more powerful replacement for Microsoft Paint and has evolved into a popular, easy-to-use alternative to more complex programs like Photoshop.
Pros:
- Free to use
- Lightweight and fast performance
- Intuitive, user-friendly interface
- Supports layers and a variety of plugins
- Regular updates and an active community
Cons:
- Only available for Windows
- Lacks some advanced features found in Photoshop, such as Content-Aware Fill and Camera RAW
- Not as powerful or feature-rich as some other alternatives like GIMP or Krita
- Limited file format support compared to Photoshop
- May not be suitable for professional or advanced image editing tasks
4. Photopea
Overview: Photopea is a browser-based image editor that supports PSD files and offers a Photoshop-like interface, making it a convenient choice for users who need to edit images without installing software. It provides a good range of features and tools, including support for layers, filters, and text, and is suitable for basic to intermediate image editing tasks.
Pros:
- Free to use
- Browser-based, no installation required
- Photoshop-like interface
- Supports PSD files and other popular file formats
- Regular updates and improvements
Cons:
- Not as feature-rich or powerful as Photoshop or GIMP
- Dependent on a stable internet connection
- Performance can be slower compared to desktop applications
- Lacks some advanced features found in Photoshop, such as Content-Aware Fill and Camera RAW
- May not be suitable for professional or advanced image editing tasks
5. Pixlr
Overview: Pixlr is a web-based photo editor that provides a simple interface and a good range of features, making it suitable for users who need a quick and easy solution for image editing tasks. It offers two different versions, Pixlr X (for basic editing) and Pixlr E (for more advanced editing), allowing users to choose the version that best meets their needs.
Pros:
- Free to use
- Browser-based, no installation required
- User-friendly interface
- Two versions available (Pixlr X and Pixlr E) to cater to different user needs
- Supports layers and various file formats
Cons:
- Not as feature-rich or powerful as Photoshop or GIMP
- Dependent on a stable internet connection
- Performance can be slower compared to desktop applications
- Lacks some advanced features found in Photoshop, such as Content-Aware Fill and Camera RAW
- May not be suitable for professional or advanced image editing tasks
6. Inkscape
Overview: Inkscape is primarily a vector graphics editor, but it can also be used for basic image editing tasks. It is a free, open-source software that offers a range of tools for creating and editing vector graphics, making it suitable for users who need a free alternative to Adobe Illustrator or CorelDRAW as well as basic image editing capabilities.
Pros:
- Free and open-source
- Cross-platform compatibility (Windows, macOS, Linux)
- Designed for vector graphics editing
- Supports various file formats, including SVG, AI, and EPS
- Active community and regular updates
Cons:
- Limited image editing features compared to Photoshop
- Steeper learning curve, especially for users unfamiliar with vector graphics
- Interface not as polished and user-friendly as Photoshop
- Lacks some advanced features found in Photoshop, such as Content-Aware Fill and Camera RAW
- Not specifically designed for image editing, so it may not be suitable for users who require advanced photo editing tools
7. Darktable
Overview: Darktable is a free, open-source RAW photo editor that focuses on non-destructive editing features, making it a great option for photographers who need a free alternative to Adobe Lightroom. Darktable provides a range of tools for processing high-quality images, including color correction, retouching, and advanced filtering options. It also offers a powerful cataloging system to manage large photo collections.
Pros:
- Free and open-source
- Cross-platform compatibility (Windows, macOS, Linux)
- Designed for RAW photo editing and management
- Non-destructive editing features
- Powerful cataloging and organization tools
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve compared to some other alternatives
- Lacks some advanced image editing features found in Photoshop
- Interface not as polished and user-friendly as Photoshop
- Primarily focused on RAW photo editing, may not be suitable for other types of image editing tasks
- Limited support for vector graphics and text
8. RawTherapee
Overview: RawTherapee is another open-source RAW photo editor that offers a range of tools for processing high-quality images. It provides non-destructive editing features, advanced color handling, and noise reduction capabilities, making it suitable for photographers who require a free alternative to programs like Adobe Lightroom or Capture One.
Pros:
- Free and open-source
- Cross-platform compatibility (Windows, macOS, Linux)
- Designed for RAW photo editing
- Non-destructive editing features
- Advanced color handling and noise reduction capabilities
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve compared to some other alternatives
- Lacks some advanced image editing features found in Photoshop
- Interface not as polished and user-friendly as Photoshop
- Primarily focused on RAW photo editing, may not be suitable for other types of image editing tasks
- Limited support for vector graphics and text
9. SumoPaint
Overview: SumoPaint is a browser-based image editor that provides a variety of tools and filters for basic to intermediate image editing tasks. With a user-friendly interface and support for layers, it offers a convenient solution for users who need to edit images without installing software. SumoPaint also offers a paid version with additional features and offline capabilities.
Pros:
- Free to use (with a paid version available)
- Browser-based, no installation required
- User-friendly interface
- Supports layers and various file formats
- Regular updates and improvements
Cons:
- Not as feature-rich or powerful as Photoshop or GIMP
- Dependent on a stable internet connection
- Performance can be slower compared to desktop applications
- Lacks some advanced features found in Photoshop, such as Content-Aware Fill and Camera RAW
- May not be suitable for professional or advanced image editing tasks
10. Gravit Designer
Overview: Gravit Designer is a vector design app that offers basic image editing features, making it suitable for creating illustrations and designs. As a free, browser-based software, Gravit Designer provides a range of tools for creating vector graphics, including shapes, paths, and text. Although it is primarily a vector graphics editor, it also includes some basic image editing capabilities.
Pros:
- Free to use
- Browser-based, no installation required (desktop app also available)
- Designed for vector graphics editing
- Supports various file formats, including SVG, AI, and EPS
- User-friendly interface
Cons:
- Limited image editing features compared to Photoshop
- Primarily focused on vector graphics editing, may not be suitable for advanced image editing tasks
- Dependent on a stable internet connection (for the browser-based version)
- Lacks some advanced features found in Photoshop, such as Content-Aware Fill and Camera RAW
- Performance can be slower compared to desktop applications
11. Photoscape X
Overview: Photoscape X is a user-friendly image editor that offers a range of tools for basic to intermediate image editing tasks. It features a simple interface and provides features like batch editing, collage creation, GIF creation, and more. Photoscape X is a great option for users who need a free, easy-to-use image editor with versatile features.
Pros:
- Free to use
- User-friendly interface
- Supports batch editing, collage creation, and GIF creation
- Wide range of filters and effects
- Regular updates and improvements
Cons:
- Not as feature-rich or powerful as Photoshop or GIMP
- Lacks some advanced features found in Photoshop, such as Content-Aware Fill and Camera RAW
- Limited support for vector graphics and text
- Only available for Windows and macOS
- May not be suitable for professional or advanced image editing tasks
12. Crello
Overview: Crello is a graphic design tool that offers templates and basic image editing features, making it suitable for creating social media and marketing materials. With a user-friendly interface and a large library of templates, Crello allows users to quickly create and edit graphics without the need for advanced design skills.
Pros:
- Free to use (with a paid version available)
- User-friendly interface
- Large library of templates for various design purposes
- Basic image editing features
- Supports various file formats
Cons:
- Not as feature-rich or powerful as Photoshop or GIMP
- Limited image editing features compared to dedicated image editors
- Lacks some advanced features found in Photoshop, such as Content-Aware Fill and Camera RAW
- Primarily focused on graphic design, may not be suitable for advanced image editing tasks
- Dependent on a stable internet connection
13. Canva
Overview: Canva is a design platform primarily focused on creating graphics, offering limited image editing features. It is especially popular for creating social media graphics, presentations, and marketing materials. Canva’s user-friendly interface and extensive library of templates, fonts, and elements make it easy for users with little design experience to create visually appealing content.
Pros:
- Free to use (with a paid version available)
- User-friendly interface
- Large library of templates, fonts, and elements
- Easy to create graphics for various purposes
- Supports various file formats
Cons:
- Not as feature-rich or powerful as Photoshop or GIMP
- Limited image editing features compared to dedicated image editors
- Lacks some advanced features found in Photoshop, such as Content-Aware Fill and Camera RAW
- Primarily focused on graphic design, may not be suitable for advanced image editing tasks
- Dependent on a stable internet connection
14. Fotor
Overview: Fotor is a web-based photo editor that offers basic editing tools, filters, and collage creation capabilities. It features an intuitive interface, making it suitable for users who need a quick and easy solution for simple image editing tasks. Fotor also provides a range of design templates and resources for creating graphics and marketing materials.
Pros:
- Free to use (with a paid version available)
- Browser-based, no installation required
- User-friendly interface
- Basic editing tools and filters
- Collage creation and design templates
Cons:
- Not as feature-rich or powerful as Photoshop or GIMP
- Dependent on a stable internet connection
- Performance can be slower compared to desktop applications
- Lacks some advanced features found in Photoshop, such as Content-Aware Fill and Camera RAW
- May not be suitable for professional or advanced image editing tasks
15. Pinta
Overview: Pinta is a simple, open-source image editor with basic features, inspired by Paint.NET. It offers tools for drawing, painting, and basic image editing, making it suitable for casual users and those who need to perform simple image editing tasks. Pinta’s interface is straightforward and easy to use, providing a lightweight alternative to more complex image editors.
Pros:
- Free and open-source
- Cross-platform compatibility (Windows, macOS, Linux)
- Simple and easy-to-use interface
- Basic image editing features
- Lightweight and fast performance
Cons:
- Limited features compared to Photoshop or GIMP
- Lacks some advanced features found in Photoshop, such as Content-Aware Fill and Camera RAW
- Not as powerful or feature-rich as some other alternatives
- May not be suitable for professional or advanced image editing tasks
- Limited support for vector graphics and text
16. Lunapic
Overview: Lunapic is a web-based photo editor that offers a range of basic editing tools, filters, and effects. It features a simple interface and provides an easy-to-use platform for users who need a quick solution for image editing tasks without installing any software. Lunapic also supports a variety of file formats, including GIF, making it a convenient option for creating and editing animated images.
Pros:
- Free to use
- Browser-based, no installation required
- User-friendly interface
- Basic editing tools, filters, and effects
- Supports GIF creation and editing
Cons:
- Not as feature-rich or powerful as Photoshop or GIMP
- Dependent on a stable internet connection
- Performance can be slower compared to desktop applications
- Lacks some advanced features found in Photoshop, such as Content-Aware Fill and Camera RAW
- May not be suitable for professional or advanced image editing tasks
17. Polarr
Overview: Polarr is a photo editor that offers a range of filters and editing tools for enhancing images. It is available as a web-based editor and as a standalone app for Windows, macOS, and mobile platforms. Polarr features a user-friendly interface and provides tools for color correction, retouching, and applying effects, making it suitable for photographers and casual users alike.
Pros:
- Free to use (with a paid version available)
- Browser-based and standalone app versions
- User-friendly interface
- Wide range of filters and effects
- Supports various file formats
Cons:
- Not as feature-rich or powerful as Photoshop or GIMP
- Limited image editing features compared to dedicated image editors
- Lacks some advanced features found in Photoshop, such as Content-Aware Fill and Camera RAW
- May not be suitable for professional or advanced image editing tasks
- Dependent on a stable internet connection (for the browser-based version)
18. Vectr
Overview: Vectr is a free, web-based vector graphics editor that also offers basic image editing features. It is designed for creating vector graphics, including logos, icons, and illustrations. Vectr features a user-friendly interface and provides an easy-to-use platform for users who need a simple solution for vector graphics creation and basic image editing tasks.
Pros:
- Free to use
- Browser-based, no installation required
- User-friendly interface
- Designed for vector graphics editing
- Supports various file formats, including SVG
Cons:
- Limited image editing features compared to Photoshop
- Primarily focused on vector graphics editing, may not be suitable for advanced image editing tasks
- Dependent on a stable internet connection
- Lacks some advanced features found in Photoshop, such as Content-Aware Fill and Camera RAW
- Performance can be slower compared to desktop applications
19. PicMonkey
Overview: PicMonkey is an online photo editor and design tool that offers a range of features for creating graphics, collages, and enhancing images. It provides a user-friendly interface and a wide variety of templates, fonts, and elements, making it suitable for users who need a simple solution for image editing and graphic design tasks. PicMonkey offers a free trial, but requires a subscription for full access to its features.
Pros:
- Free trial available (subscription required for full access)
- Browser-based, no installation required
- User-friendly interface
- Wide range of templates, fonts, and elements
- Supports layers and various file formats
Cons:
- Not as feature-rich or powerful as Photoshop or GIMP
- Subscription required for full access to features
- Dependent on a stable internet connection
- Lacks some advanced features found in Photoshop, such as Content-Aware Fill and Camera RAW
- May not be suitable for professional or advanced image editing tasks
20. Pixlriffs
Overview: Pixlriffs is a browser-based photo editor that offers basic image editing features, filters, and effects. Its simple interface makes it easy for users to perform quick edits and adjustments on their images without installing any software. While it lacks some advanced features found in Photoshop or GIMP, Pixlriffs is a convenient option for casual users who need to perform simple image editing tasks.
Pros:
- Free to use
- Browser-based, no installation required
- User-friendly interface
- Basic editing tools, filters, and effects
- Supports various file formats
Cons:
- Not as feature-rich or powerful as Photoshop or GIMP
- Dependent on a stable internet connection
- Performance can be slower compared to desktop applications
- Lacks some advanced features found in Photoshop, such as Content-Aware Fill and Camera RAW
- May not be suitable for professional or advanced image editing tasks
21. BeFunky
Overview: BeFunky is an online photo editor and graphic design tool that provides a range of features for enhancing images and creating graphics. It features a user-friendly interface and offers various templates, effects, and filters, making it suitable for users who need a simple solution for image editing and graphic design tasks. BeFunky offers a free version with limited features and a paid version with additional features and resources.
Pros:
- Free to use (with a paid version available)
- Browser-based, no installation required
- User-friendly interface
- Wide range of templates, effects, and filters
- Supports various file formats
Cons:
- Not as feature-rich or powerful as Photoshop or GIMP
- Limited features in the free version
- Dependent on a stable internet connection
- Lacks some advanced features found in Photoshop, such as Content-Aware Fill and Camera RAW
- May not be suitable for professional or advanced image editing tasks
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