When it comes to editing your images, Adobe Photoshop is one of the most popular software solutions around. Used by amateurs and professionals alike, Photoshop can help to turn any image into a masterpiece.
Unfortunately, the Creative Cloud subscription that you need to access Photoshop can make it quite expensive for people who are just launching their photography brand.
What’s more, with so many tools to choose from in Photoshop, you might find that this tool is tougher to use than other options.
So, what are the top free alternatives to Photoshop?
GIMP
The GNU Image Manipulation Program, or GIMP, is one of the best-known free alternatives to Photoshop on the market. As a very feature-rich solution for photographers, GIMP can do almost anything that Photoshop can.
Pros:
Lots of features
Image slicing support
History toolbar
Blending and layer support modes
Cons:
Complicated UI
Strange text tool
No RAW filter
KRITA
Krita is another highly popular free alternative to Photoshop. In fact, it’s one of the tools most recommended by photographers in forums about editing and creative image design. The best thing about Krita is how similar it looks and feels to Photoshop
Pros:
Support for pens and drawing tablets
Multiple pre-installed templates
Lots of effects to choose from
Guides and rulers supported
Cons:
No history toolbar
Slow at times
Limited text feature
No RAW filter
Paint.NET
Originally, Paint.NET was intended to be an enhanced version of the MS Paint tool. So, you’ll notice many features similar to your Microsoft application here. However, while Paint.NET might not be as powerful as Photoshop, it gives you a lot of features that may make it a great alternative for beginners.
Pros:
Blending and layer support
History tool
Support for multiple file types
Well-rounded editing tool
Cons:
Outdated UI
Lack of Guide support
No RAW option
No slice, patch, or spot healing tool
Pixlr Editor
Although it’s a browser-based tool, the Pixlr editor is just as powerful as many desktop applications. Unlike other free alternatives to Photoshop, Pixlr editor was created by AutoDesk, a leading name in computer-aided design.
Pros:
Access on any platform (because it’s browser-based)
Layer and blending supported
Customizable interface
Healing and history tools
Cons:
Flash download required
No pen tool supported
Not as much file support as Photoshop
No guides and rulers
Photo Pos Pro
As an advanced piece of editing equipment designed for people who can’t afford Photoshop, Photo Pos Pro is brimming with fantastic capabilities. Similar to Photoshop, there are layers and layer masks, as well as healing and clone brushes.
Pros:
Customizable interface for novices and experts
Support for layers and masks
Intuitive feature selection
Closely resembles photoshop
Cons:
Can be difficult to learn
The software acts strangely at times
The size of exported files is limited