I’m looking for free apps similar to Photoshop because I can’t afford the paid version right now. I need something user-friendly for photo editing and design work. Any recommendations?
-
GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program)
Homepage Link: https://www.gimp.org/
Pros:- Open-source and free forever.
- Packed with advanced photo editing tools.
- Supports layers, masks, and many Photoshop-like features.
- Customizable interface with numerous plugins.
Cons:
- Steep learning curve for beginners.
- Interface looks slightly dated.
- Slower performance on resource-heavy operations.
Features:
- Supports various formats like PSD, JPEG, and PNG.
- Advanced color correction tools.
- Clone tools for removal of imperfections.
- Highly customizable brushes and patterns.
User Reviews:
- Many users love it as a capable Photoshop replacement, especially graphic designers.
- Complaints focus on its steep learning curve and occasional user interface quirks.
Verdict:
GIMP remains one of the top free Photoshop alternatives for its sheer range of tools and features. Although beginners may struggle, it’s a fantastic choice for tinkerers and advanced users alike.
-
Krita
Homepage Link: https://krita.org/
Pros:- Excellent for digital art and painting.
- Seamless layer and blending features.
- Intuitive, modern interface unlike GIMP’s.
- Pre-installed professional brushes and tools.
Cons:
- Less suitable for photo editing (it’s more geared toward illustration).
- Fewer filters and effects compared to Photoshop.
Features:
- Built-in brush stabilizers for smooth strokes.
- Robust text and comic creation tools.
- PSD support for interoperability.
- Animation tools for basic projects.
User Reviews:
- Artists often praise Krita for being beginner-friendly and polished for digital painting.
- Some photo editors may find its toolset limited compared to Photoshop.
Verdict:
If your focus leans more on illustration and design work, Krita is an impressive and totally free option. Its photo editing toolbox isn’t as strong as GIMP’s, but for creatives, it shines.
-
Photopea
Homepage Link: https://www.photopea.com/
Pros:- Web-based; no need to download.
- Outstanding Photoshop-like interface.
- Compatible with PSDs, Sketch, and other file types.
- Runs smoothly on most modern browsers.
Cons:
- Requires an active internet connection.
- Free version has ads.
- Performance can lag with large projects.
Features:
- Familiar toolbar that mirrors Photoshop’s.
- Layer editing and masking.
- Smart objects and vector editing.
- Supports custom fonts for design work.
User Reviews:
- Highly praised for its accessibility and immediacy without bulky downloads.
- Some users find ads intrusive, while others note slow response during complex operations.
Verdict:
Photopea is fantastic when you need a lightweight but capable Photoshop substitute. It’s especially useful for quick edits or occasional use, though professionals might prefer desktop apps.
-
Paint.NET
Homepage Link: https://www.getpaint.net/
Pros:- Lightweight and very beginner-friendly.
- Fast installation and responsive performance.
- Community plugins add significant functionality.
Cons:
- Limited advanced features compared to GIMP or Photoshop.
- Windows-only.
Features:
- Supports basic image editing needs (resize, crop, and filters).
- Layer support for slightly sophisticated designs.
- Free-form select and gradient tools.
User Reviews:
- Beginner users love how easy it is to use, but professionals want more advanced features.
- Community-built plugins allow deeper customization for power users.
Verdict:
Paint.NET isn’t going to outshine Photoshop, but for lightweight photo enhancements or simple designs, it works wonders. It’s one to consider if you’re just starting out.
-
Canva
Homepage Link: https://www.canva.com/
Pros:- Browser-based with optional mobile/desktop apps.
- Drag-and-drop interface perfect for design work.
- Pre-made templates save tons of time.
Cons:
- Limited image manipulation capabilities.
- Some features behind a paywall.
Features:
- Templates for social media, marketing, and more.
- Easy resizing and export options.
- Basic photo editing tools (brightness, contrast, crop).
User Reviews:
- Loved for its user-friendliness and smooth templates for non-designers.
- Advanced users may find editing options too basic.
Verdict:
If your main goal is creating polished designs or social media graphics, Canva is unbeatable for its simplicity. However, it’s not a Photoshop replacement for hardcore editing tasks.
-
Darktable
Homepage Link: https://www.darktable.org/
Pros:- Geared toward photographers needing RAW processing.
- Powerful workflow similar to Lightroom.
- Completely free, no strings attached.
Cons:
- Not ideal for graphic design or heavy image manipulations.
- Non-intuitive interface for newcomers.
Features:
- RAW image editing with quick adjustments and masks.
- Color grading and tone curve tools.
- Non-destructive editing workflow.
User Reviews:
- Rated well for RAW photography but criticized for being overwhelming at first.
- Interface receives comparisons to professional-grade tools like Lightroom.
Verdict:
If photography is your jam, Darktable has you covered. But for graphic design or pixel-level editing, look elsewhere.
-
Pixlr X & Pixlr E
Homepage Link: https://pixlr.com/
Pros:- Web-based; no installation required.
- Intuitive layout suitable for quick edits.
- Two variants: “X” for beginners & “E” for more experienced users.
Cons:
- Some tools locked behind paid tiers.
- Requires a constant internet connection.
Features:
- Filters, overlays, and blending options.
- Layer tools in Pixlr E version.
- Free stock photo and elements access.
User Reviews:
- Users praise the simplicity of Pixlr X and versatility of Pixlr E. Ads are a frequent complaint, though.
Verdict:
A perfect lightweight option for on-the-go tasks, but the feature set can’t go toe-to-toe with GIMP or Photoshop.
-
Inkscape
Homepage Link: https://inkscape.org/
Pros:- Best for vector illustrations and graphics.
- Completely free and open-source.
- Cross-platform (Windows, macOS, Linux).
Cons:
- Not built for photo editing.
- Interface isn’t the prettiest.
Features:
- Vector drawing tools with precise control.
- Extensive SVG export and manipulation options.
- Plugin support.
User Reviews:
- Praised by graphic designers for logos and scalable designs.
- Photo editors often express frustration due to its limited bitmap tools.
Verdict:
Inkscape excels where Photoshop scorecards don’t—vector graphics. But as a Photoshop replacement? Not quite.
-
Fotor
Homepage Link: https://www.fotor.com/
Pros:- Simple editing and collage-making tools.
- Sleek and intuitive UI, even for newcomers.
Cons:
- Limited functionality in free plan.
- Lacks advanced features like layering.
Features:
- One-tap retouching and portrait enhancements.
- Dozens of filters to choose from.
- Save-to-cloud integration and batch edits.
User Reviews:
- Beginners often love its simplicity. Experienced users, however, demand more flexibility.
Verdict:
Fotor is great for casual users needing quick fixes or collages. Hardcore Photoshop fans might leave disappointed.
- Affinity Photo (Free Trial Available)
Homepage Link: https://affinity.serif.com/photo/
Pros:
- Professional tools for advanced photo and design editing.
- Non-subscription one-time purchase (after trial).
- PSD compatibility.
Cons:
- Not permanently free (though affordable).
- High learning curve similar to Photoshop.
Features:
- Layer-based high-end editing.
- Advanced brush and texture controls.
- Comprehensive RAW photo studio.
User Reviews:
- Users call it a true Photoshop rival at a fraction of the cost. Free users lament the trial expiry.
Verdict:
Affinity Photo isn’t entirely free but deserves a mention. For a 30-day trial, it’s worth exploring as a professional Photoshop alternative.
Overall Takeaway: For a straight-up Photoshop competitor, GIMP takes the crown for its versatility and community support. Krita is stellar if illustration is your focus, but Photopea is king in a pinch thanks to its browser-based accessibility.