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» What is Photoshop?
Photoshop is one of the best imaging and graphic design software used by millions of creative users for projects. Designers use it to create beautiful designs, digital paintings, animations, and graphical drawings.

With an online photo editor like Photoshop, you can make professional photography edits, remove or replace objects, and combine photos with excellent finishing.
But there are other tools out there for designers.
People search for apps like Photoshop to save costs, simplify their workflow, or find tools better suited to specific needs like lightweight editing or digital painting. Others may prefer open-source options, ethical practices, or tools compatible with their devices.
For this reason, we’ll explore 20 free & paid photo editors like Photoshop.
But first, let’s understand why design professionals and designers alike prefer software like Photoshop!
» Why is Photoshop so Popular Among Designers?
Adobe Photoshop is a popular choice among designers because it offers a range of comprehensive features, is versatile, and is industry-standard.
Its market share speaks volumes—as of February 2024, it held 42% of the global graphics software market share.
Here are some of the main reasons why software like Adobe Photoshop is prevalent among designers.
- Gives a comprehensive toolset: Photoshop equips designers with tools for everything—photo editing, graphic design, and digital art. This is why it remains a one-stop solution for creative professionals.
- Driven by continuous innovation: Photoshop boasts cutting-edge, AI-powered tools that help the tool remain relevant and influential.
- Offer easy integration options: There’s a smooth compatibility with other Adobe apps like Illustrator and InDesign, which simplifies workflows and boosts productivity.
- Provide abundant learning resources: Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, Photoshop has a vast library of tutorials, forums, and guides that help designers whenever they feel stuck.
- Act as a highly versatile platform: Photoshop is available on Windows, macOS, and iPad so that designers can match their preferred working style and device.
However, you can avoid paying a hefty price for such popular software; there are a few alternatives.
» Top 25 Photoshop Alternatives (Free and Paid)
1) Photopea
- Price: Free (ad-supported), Pro version available for $3.33/month.
- Platforms: Web-based (compatible with any browser).
- Import file format: PSD, JPG, PNG, SVG, XD, Sketch, RAW, etc.
- Export file format: PSD, JPG, PNG, PDF, SVG, etc.
- Color Space: RGB, CMYK.

Pros
- Fully browser-based. No installation required
- Supports PSD files and advanced editing tools
- Works seamlessly on all devices with a browser
- Free with access to most features
Cons
- Ads in the free version can be distracting
- Not as feature-rich as Photoshop for professionals
- Requires an internet connection for optimal performance
2) Canva
Useful for: Creating social media content, presentations, and marketing materials effortlessly.
Canva offers an all-in-one design platform with a vast library of templates and assets. Its intuitive drag-and-drop editor makes it a favorite for beginners and marketers looking to create polished visuals quickly.
- Price: Free (Pro version is $12.99/month).
- Platforms: Web-based, iOS, and Android apps.
- Import file format: JPG, PNG, SVG.
- Export file format: JPG, PNG, PDF, MP4.
- Color Space: RGB.

Pros
- Huge library of templates and design assets
- Easy to use, even for non-designers
- Collaboration features for team projects
- Supports animated and video exports
Cons
- Limited customization in free templates
- Not ideal for detailed photo editing
- Need for pro version to access premium assets
3) GIMP
Useful for: Advanced photo manipulation and graphic design are free.
GIMP is a free, open-source alternative to Photoshop with professional-level tools. It’s ideal for users who need powerful editing capabilities without the cost of premium software.
- Price: Completely free.
- Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux.
- Import file format: PSD, JPG, PNG, TIFF, RAW, etc.
- Export file format: JPG, PNG, TIFF, PDF, etc.
- Color Space: RGB, CMYK.

Pros
- Robust set of features for a free tool
- Highly customizable with plugins
- Open-source and community-driven
- Works offline on most operating systems
Cons
- A steep learning curve for beginners
- Interface can feel outdated
- Limited integration with other tools
4) Adobe Express
Useful for: Quick and professional-looking social media graphics, flyers, and logos.
Adobe Express focuses on simplicity and efficiency, offering an intuitive interface and pre-made templates. It’s perfect for creating branded content quickly without diving into complex design tools.
- Price: Free (Premium version is $9.99/month).
- Platforms: Web-based and mobile apps (iOS, Android).
- Import file format: JPG, PNG, SVG.
- Export file format: JPG, PNG, PDF.
- Color Space: RGB.

Pros
- User-friendly interface with drag-and-drop functionality
- Excellent templates for social media and marketing
- Integrated with Adobe Stock (premium version)
- Cross-platform accessibility
Cons
- Limited features in the free version
- Not suitable for complex editing tasks
- Export options can feel restrictive for advanced users
5) PicMonkey
Useful for: Social media graphics, photo editing, and branding.
PicMonkey is designed for marketers and small business owners who need quick yet polished visuals. It offers an intuitive interface with features focused on photo retouching and content creation.
- Price: Free trial available; plans start at $7.99/month.
- Platforms: Web-based and mobile apps (iOS, Android).
- Import file format: JPG, PNG.
- Export file format: JPG, PNG, PDF.
- Color Space: RGB.

Pros
- User-friendly interface with a minimal learning curve
- Great for creating social media posts and ads
- Built-in photo retouching tools
- Supports team collaboration in paid plans
Cons
- Limited features in the free version
- Smaller asset library compared to Canva
- Not ideal for advanced design tasks
6) Pixlr
Useful for: Quick and efficient online photo editing for beginners and professionals.
Pixlr is a browser-based editor that supports advanced editing tools and AI features. With its sleek interface, it caters to users looking for a Photoshop-like experience without the installation.
- Price: Free (Premium starts at $4.99/month).
- Platforms: Web-based, iOS, Android.
- Import file format: JPG, PNG, PSD.
- Export file format: JPG, PNG, WEBP.
- Color Space: RGB.
Pros
- No installation required — browser-based
- Intuitive interface with powerful AI tools
- Supports layers and advanced photo editing
- Lightweight and fast to load
Cons
- Ads in the free version
- Some advanced tools are locked behind the paywall
- Limited offline capability
7) CorelDRAW Photo-Paint
Useful for: Professional photo retouching and image composition.
CorelDRAW Photo-Paint is part of the CorelDRAW Graphics Suite and offers powerful editing capabilities for creative professionals. It integrates seamlessly with other tools in the suite for a complete design workflow.
- Price: $429 one-time payment or $22.08/month (as part of the Graphics Suite).
- Platforms: Windows, macOS.
- Import file format: PSD, JPG, PNG, RAW, and more.
- Export file format: JPG, PNG, TIFF, PDF.
- Color Space: RGB, CMYK.
Pros
- Professional-grade tools for detailed editing
- Excellent integration with CorelDRAW Graphics Suite
- Supports a wide range of formats
- Customizable interface
Cons
- Expensive compared to other alternatives
- Only available as part of the CorelDRAW suite
8) Affinity Photo
Useful for: Advanced photo editing and retouching with a one-time purchase.
Affinity Photo is a cost-effective, professional-grade alternative to Photoshop. It’s packed with features like HDR merging, RAW editing, and precision retouching, making it ideal for serious photographers and designers.
- Price: $69.99 one-time purchase.
- Platforms: Windows, macOS, iPad.
- Import file format: PSD, JPG, PNG, RAW, and more.
- Export file format: PSD, JPG, PNG, TIFF, PDF.
- Color Space: RGB, CMYK.
Pros
- No subscription required; one-time payment
- Powerful tools for professionals.
- PSD compatibility
- Excellent performance on iPad
Cons
- No built-in asset libraries or templates.
- Limited community compared to Photoshop
9) Acorn
- Price: $39.99 one-time purchase.
- Platforms: macOS.
- Import file format: JPG, PNG, PSD, RAW.
- Export file format: JPG, PNG, TIFF, PSD.
- Color Space: RGB.
Pros
- Lightweight and fast on macOS
- Easy-to-use interface
- Supports layer editing and vector tools
- Affordable with a one-time payment
Cons
- Only available for macOS
- Lacks some advanced features for professionals
- Limited support for CMYK
10) Polarr
- Price: Free (Pro version $3.99/month).
- Platforms: Web-based, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android.
- Import file format: JPG, PNG, RAW.
- Export file format: JPG, PNG.
- Color Space: RGB.
Pros
- AI-powered filters and effects
- Available on multiple platforms
- Intuitive and beginner-friendly
- Fast processing, even for large files
Cons
- Limited features in the free version
- Not suitable for heavy editing tasks
- Export options are restrictive
11) Fotor
- Price: Free (Pro version $8.99/month).
- Platforms: Web-based, iOS, Android, Windows, macOS.
- Import file format: JPG, PNG.
- Export file format: JPG, PNG.
- Color Space: RGB.
Pros
- Easy-to-use interface with one-click filters
- Great for quick edits and collages
- Includes photo retouching tools
- Free version covers basic needs
Cons
- Limited features for advanced users
- Ads in the free version
- Export quality can be inconsistent
12) Paint.net
- Price: Free.
- Platforms: Windows.
- Import file format: JPG, PNG, BMP, GIF.
- Export file format: JPG, PNG, BMP, TIFF.
- Color Space: RGB.
Pros
- Completely free to use.
- Lightweight and fast.
- Plugins extend functionality.
- Easy for beginners
Cons
- Only available on Windows
- Limited tools for professional editing
- Outdated interface compared to modern tools
13) Krita
- Price: Free.
- Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux.
- Import file format: PSD, PNG, JPG, RAW.
- Export file format: PSD, PNG, JPG, TIFF.
- Color Space: RGB, CMYK.
Pros
- Perfect for digital painting and concept art
- Highly customizable brushes and tools
- Free and open-source
- Wide community support
Cons
- Limited photo editing features.
- Resource-intensive for older systems.
14) Desygner
- Price: Free (Premium plans start at $4.95/month).
- Platforms: Web-based, iOS, Android.
- Import file format: JPG, PNG.
- Export file format: JPG, PNG, PDF.
- Color Space: RGB.
Pros
- Easy-to-use interface
- Pre-made templates for various uses
- Affordable pricing
- Great for social media visuals
Cons
- Limited customization in free templates
- Not ideal for advanced designs
- Some features are locked in the free version
15) Instasize
- Price: Free (Premium starts at $4.99/month).
- Platforms: iOS, Android.
- Import file format: JPG, PNG.
- Export file format: JPG, PNG.
- Color Space: RGB.
Pros
- Designed for social media creators
- User-friendly with one-tap editing
- Filters and resizing tools
- Mobile-first approach
Cons
- Limited tools in the free version
- No desktop support
- Advanced edits require a subscription
16) Sumopaint
- Price: Free (Pro starts at $4/month).
- Platforms: Web-based.
- Import file format: JPG, PNG.
- Export file format: JPG, PNG.
- Color Space: RGB.
Pros
- Lightweight and accessible.
- Great for basic editing and illustrations.
- Free version available.
- Quick learning curve.
Cons
- Limited advanced features.
- Requires an internet connection
17) Photoscape X
- Price: Free (Pro version $39.99 one-time or $4.99/month).
- Platforms: Windows, macOS.
- Import file format: JPG, PNG, RAW, BMP, GIF.
- Export file format: JPG, PNG, BMP, GIF.
- Color Space: RGB.
Pros
- Easy to use with a friendly interface
- Offers batch editing for quick workflows
- Built-in filters and effects for creative projects
- Affordable Pro version with added features
Cons
- Limited tools compared to professional-grade editors
- Free version has fewer features
- Not suitable for high-end photo retouching
18) Inkscape
Useful for: Vector-based graphic design and illustration.
Inkscape is a free, open-source tool for creating vector graphics. It allows designers to control shapes and designs precisely.
- Price: Free
- Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux.
- Import file format: SVG, EPS, JPG, PNG, PDF.
- Export file format: SVG, PNG, PDF.
- Color Space: RGB.
Pros
- Free and open-source with robust features
- Perfect for vector illustration and scalable graphics
- Regular updates and strong community support
- Compatible with industry-standard formats
Cons
- Slower performance on older systems
- Limited tools for raster photo editing
19) CinePaint
- Price: Free.
- Platforms: Linux, macOS.
- Import file format: OpenEXR, TIFF, DPX, JPG, PNG.
- Export file format: OpenEXR, TIFF, DPX, JPG, PNG.
- Color Space: RGB, CMYK.
Pros
- Tailored for film and animation workflows
- Supports high dynamic range (HDR) imaging
- Powerful frame-by-frame editing tools
- Free and open-source
Cons
- Limited compatibility with Windows
- Outdated interface compared to modern tools
- Not ideal for standard photo editing
20) Photo Pos Pro
- Price: Free (Pro version $29.99 one-time).
- Platforms: Windows.
- Import file format: JPG, PNG, BMP, RAW.
- Export file format: JPG, PNG, BMP, TIFF.
- Color Space: RGB.
Pros
- Beginner-friendly with easy mode
- Advanced editing tools for professionals
- Affordable Pro version with more features
- Supports high-quality exports
Cons
- Windows-only availability
- Limited performance on large files
- Fewer advanced tools compared to Photoshop
» Best Photoshop Alternatives - By Use Cases
| Software | Photo Manipulation | Graphic Designing | Image Color Correction | Minor Image Edits | Mockups | Logo Design | Print Design |
| Photopea | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Canva | ✖️ | ✔️ | ✖️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| GIMP | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✖️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Adobe Express | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| PicMonkey | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✖️ | ✔️ | ✖️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Pixlr | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✖️ | ✔️ | ✖️ |
CorelDRAW Photo-Paint | ✖️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✖️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Affinity Photo | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Acorn | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✖️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Polarr | ✔️ | ✖️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
| Fotor | ✖️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
| Paint.net | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
| Krita | ✖️ | ✔️ | ✖️ | ✔️ | ✖️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Desygner | ✖️ | ✔️ | ✖️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Instasize | ✖️ | ✔️ | ✖️ | ✔️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
| Sumopaint | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Photoscape X | ✖️ | ✔️ | ✖️ | ✔️ | ✖️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Inkscape | ✖️ | ✔️ | ✖️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| CinePaint | ✖️ | ✔️ | ✖️ | ✔️ | ✖️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Photo Pos Pro | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✖️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |