Adobe Photoshop is among the most popular photo editing software out there used by both experts to edit and create masterful images, and yours indeed, who simply requires it for fundamental image adjustment. I am sure you have at least tried Photoshop as long as Adobe’s Creative Cloud subscription (whopping $20.99/ month); Photoshop can prove to be pretty expensive for individuals only getting into photo editing. Plus, with the myriad of tools available in Photoshop, it can be quite challenging to utilize. Suppose you are searching for Photoshop alternatives that are much easier to use or free for your Windows PC, Mac, Linux device, or Android or iOS gadget well. In that case, we have you covered with the finest 16 competitors.
Best Photoshop Alternatives in 2022
To make it clear for you to discover Photoshop alternatives that best fit your needs, I’m breaking this post down into four areas, and you can click on the links listed below to head over to the area best suited for your requirements.
Free Photoshop Alternatives
Online Photoshop Alternatives
Photoshop Alternatives for Android and iOS
Paid Photoshop Alternatives
Free Photoshop Alternatives
Here are Top Best Free Photoshop Alternatives that you can use in 2022.
1. Krita
It is a free tool like Photoshop that is almost as feature-rich in the choices it provides as Photoshop is. It also remains one of the highly recommended tools by people in online forums about photo editing and creative editing. I like Krita because it looks very similar to Photoshop — the toolbars are arranged in the very same way. Krita has a dark theme by default (but you can change the app’s color scheme).
There’s support for tools similar to the Slice Tool that a great deal of Photoshop users swear by, and you can likewise open numerous images in tabs just like Photoshop. It’s entirely free. There’s a paid version available for anybody who wants to support the designers and show some love.
Pros:
Support for drawing tablets and pens.
Templates for different types of projects.
Supports Rulers and Guides.
Many effects.
Cons:
No history tool available.
The patch tool lags on larger images.
The text tool isn’t as feature-rich as Photoshop’s.
No Camera image RAW filter.
File Support: JPEG, PNG, BMP, GIMP, TIF, TGA, WEBP, and more
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux
Price: Free; the optional paid version available to support developers
2. GIMP
One of the top recommendations you’d read for a tool like Photoshop is GIMP and for a good reason. GIMP or GNU is a very feature-rich photo editing and creative tool that can do almost everything that Photoshop can. It brings in everything from the famous Adobe software to free software.
However, GIMP is not my top choice for a Photoshop alternative because it has many issues, most annoying. Numerous preset brushes share the same settings, which gets annoying, continually switching between brushes. That said, many of its problems can be solved using GIMP plugins. Also, it’s free and is worth a look-see if you are in the market for a free Photoshop alternative.
Pros:
Full layer support with blending modes.
Supports Rulers and Guides.
Supports image slicing.
History toolbar.
Cons:
The user interface looks dated and takes getting used to.
The text tool is unfamiliar and not intuitive at all.
No Camera RAW filter.
Finding tools can be difficult.
File Support: JPEG, BMP, TIF, PNG, and more.
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux
Price: Free
3. Paint.NET
Paint.NET was initially developed to be a more powerful version of MS Paint, and as such, it brings a lot of the features from MS Paint. Whereas Paint.NET is nowhere near as powerful as Photoshop, it brings many features that make it a healthy alternative for people looking for a free Photoshop alternative for Windows. It supports layers with blending modes, which is one of the essential features in Photoshop. Paint.NET also has a history tool that can quickly come in handy to undo multiple edits in a project. It is a very well rounded tool for image editing even though it’s not as powerful as Photoshop can be when used correctly.
Pros:
Layer support with blending modes.
History tool.
Pretty well rounded for basic editing.
Supports rulers.
Supports a ton of file types.
Cons:
UI looks dated.
No support for Guides.
THE camera RAW image is not supported.
No patch tool, slice tool, or spot healing tool.
Does not support auto-snapping.
File Support: JPG, PNG, PDN, BMP, GIF, TIFF, TGA, DDS (DirectDraw surface)
Platforms: Windows
Price: Free; Premium version is also available.
4. Photo Pos Pro
For those searching for a free Photoshop alternative for creating master artwork and graphics without being entangled into the complicated of high-end tools, “Photo Pos Pro” seems to be one of the better options. The photo editing software application comes with a ton of easy-to-use tools so that you can create, edit, and manipulate your images.
If it removes the unwanted objects from an image, fixing a low shot, or replacing the background with a new-look background, it is got enough enhancement tools to let you edit your pics. Though Photo Pos Pro’s tools can not compete with Photoshop in terms of precision, they can prove to be more than handy.
Not merely that, it’s also got a good collection of frames so that you can improve your collages. Just in case you discover the predefined editing tools not fulfilling your need, you can always tweak the tools to accelerate your workflow. With an ever-growing library of extension plugins and packs at the disposal, you likewise have the flexibility to include some wings to your imagination. Whatever considered, Photo Pos Pro is not just a first-class Photoshop alternative; however, likewise, one of the very best free photo editors in the market.
Pros:
A great collection of extension plugins and packs
Ability to change backgrounds with ease
Remarkable photo and text effects
Simple and Easy-to-use tools
Cons:
The UI doesn’t look appealing.
The exported file size is comparatively limited.
Some effects may not work as expected.
File Support: RAW and all the major file formats.
Platforms: Windows, In Mac use with Windows Apps emulator
Price: Free, Premium features require in-app purchases to unlock.
5. Photoscape X
If a wide array of effects, filters, and improvements are what you are searching for in a complimentary Photoshop alternative, Photoscape X can turn out to be the right answer to your needs. Including a library of over 1 000 filters, effects, frames, and useful editing tools, it has got you thoroughly checked off when it comes to improving images or changing the entire appearance of pictures immediately.
Another section where it does pretty well as compared to other online photo editors is efficient batch editing. So, if you comparable apps not living up to your expectation in terms of editing multiple pics at one go, keep Photoscape X in mind.
One of my preferred features of this online photo editor is collage creation, thanks mainly to many frames. Not only that, but its ability to create fun-loving GIFs has also looked quite right to me. Finally, Photoscape X is what you should pick as a Photoshop substitute if you wish to make photo-editing easy-going and fun.
Pros:
Over 1 000 filters and effects
Efficient batch editing
Excels in creating eye-catching collages
Handy for creating fun-loving GIFs
Cons:
The UI could be better.
The basic version is quite limited.
File Support: Supports various file formats, like JPEG, GIF, TIFF, BMP, and PNG.
Platform: Windows and macOS
Price: Free, premium version $39.99.
6. Seashore
Seashore is a Photoshop alternative that’s target solely at Mac users. It brings some essential features from Photoshop, including support for layers. The app also deals with pressure sensitivity, so if you’re using a pressure-sensitive drawing tablet, you’ll be able to make full use of its pressure levels. I found Seashore to be more comfortable in terms of beginner-usability, and it’s also completely free, which is fantastic.
Pros:
Supports layers.
Completely free.
Pressure sensitivity support.
Easy to use.
Cons:
UI looks very outdated.
No effects
The grid isn’t customizable.
Doesn’t support PSD files.
File Support: JPG, PNG, GIMP, TIFF, GIF
Platforms: macOS
Price: Free
Online Photoshop Alternatives
7. Photopea
Photopea is one of the very best complimentary and online Adobe Photoshop options on the marketplace right now. Created by a single designer– Ivan Kutsir– the app is undoubtedly reaching brand-new heights with more than 7 million users worldwide. Among the best features of Photopea is that its UI is similar to Adobe Photoshop. That indicates, if you have used Photoshop in the past, you will feel right at home and won’t have to find out the software application from scratch.
Another good idea about the software application is that it supports many file formats. Aside from working with PSD files, it also supports RAW, .XD, Sketch, XCF (Gimp), and other popular file formats. That suggests that even if you are teaming up with someone on a job, you will have the ability to use it to work with them with no issues.
Photopea also comes with most of the features that Adobe Photoshop is renowned for. Photopea also has clear online documentation to help beginners get started with this software without much difficulty. You can also learn the basics of photo editing, masks, layers, selections, brushes, and more.
If you are searching for a free online Photoshop alternative, you have to check out Photopea. It will never disappoint you.
Pros:
Online, so it works on every platform.
The UI is similar to Photoshop, so users do not have to start from scratch.
All the tools, including effects, layers, masks, selection, and more
All major file formats are supported.
Free to use
Cons:
Slow down when working with large files
Ads can not be removed.
File Support: RAW, JPG, PNG, BMP, PSD, XD, Sketch, and more
Platforms: Web
Price: Free with ads
8. Pixlr Editor
One of the top online Photoshop alternatives out there, Pixlr editor, does a remarkable job editing photos. It brings many great and powerful tools that make it one of the best online Photoshop-like software out there. It comes with support for layers and blending modes, many effects, and filters, a history tool, and even has the healing tool that a lot of Photoshop users love using.
It’s best for a fast on-the-go edit, and with some of the innovative features, it can be utilized for more advanced edits. Because it’s online, you can use it no matter what os you’re on, and that’s one of the best features of online tools.
Pros:
Online, so it works on every platform.
Supports layers and blending modes.
History tool.
Healing tool.
Cons:
No pen tool.
Not as versatile as Photoshop.
Does not support as many file types as Photoshop.
No Rulers and Guides.
Support for PSD, PDF, and Sketch formats is behind a paywall.
File Support: TIFF, JPG, PNG, BMP, and PXD (layered pixlr image)
Platforms: Web
Price: Free; Pro version at $5/month
9. Sumopaint
Sumopaint is another online Photoshop alternative that you can consider using for tasks that don’t always need the complexity that Photoshop uses. Even an online tool, Sumopaint, can be used on any device you have, and it does use a lot of fantastic Photoshop-like features. The tool brings assistance for layers and mixing modes, which is a beneficial feature for more than just resizing and cropping projects.
There are likewise numerous effects and filters that Sumopaint brings to the table– these ought to prove enough for a lot of photo editing requirements. Unfortunately, the app doesn’t bring assistance for rulers and guides, which I find very beneficial in Photoshop, and the interface does look dated by today’s requirements. You can utilize it for complimentary and only pay if you need the locked tools for pro users.
Pros:
Support for layers and blending modes.
Quite a lot of effects and filters.
Enough tools are necessary for slightly advanced photo editing.
Cons:
Some tools are locked in the free version, including the Text tool, line tool, and more.
The interface is dated.
No Pen tool, Camera image, RAW filter, and auto-snapping.
It has limited file support.
File Support: PNG, JPG, SUMO
Platforms: Web
Price: Free; pro version starts at $4/month
10. PicMonkey
If Sumo and Pixlr did not suit your needs, PicMonkey might just be what you’re looking for. The tool works wholly online, so it’s easy to access without worrying about operating system compatibility. Plus, it has support for layers and also a very font-rich text tool. However, do not expect a text tool as feature-rich as Photoshop’s, or you will be disappointed.
There are also numerous filters and effects that you might find useful. However, PicMonkey is not nearly as feature-rich as Adobe Photoshop is, and it tends to respond a little slow at times. That said, the biggest issue in PicMonkey is that unless you subscribe to a premium subscription, you will not be able to export images.
Pros:
Support for layers.
The text tool has many fonts.
Bunch of filters and effects.
Cons:
Gets slow at times.
It cannot export images in the free version.
File Support: PNG, JPG
Platform: Online, mobile app available
Price: Free; Premium version starts at $7.99/month (7-day free trial available)
11. Fotor
No matter you are a newbie, digital marketer, or a full-time social media influencer, Fotor can seamlessly fit into your requirements as a super convenient online Photoshop alternative. What gives this photo editor a clean edge over many other rivals is a simple user-interface that ensures you can start crafting beautiful images without having to go through the grind.
Besides, Fotor can give intense competition to Photoshop when it comes to filters and effects. So, you get the required flexibility to enhance images’ whole appearance without spending much time.
Another great feature of this lightweight photo editing is handling RAW files more efficiently than many other photoshop alternatives. As someone who loves to create eye-catching images for sharing on social networking sites like Facebook, I have found it more user-friendly than Photoshop in this aspect mainly due to the variety of collage making tools.
Pros:
Simple user-interface
A great collection of filters and effects
Handle RAW files efficiently.
Quite good at collage making
Cons:
Lacks art features
The support document could be more proficient.
File Support: TIFF, JPEG, PNG, and RAW
Platform: Online
Price: Free
Photoshop Alternatives for Android and iOS
12. Multi-Layer (Android)
If you are looking for an app that will let you edit images on your Android smartphone or tablet, Multi-Layer is a great app to go with. While there’s no shortage of photo editing apps on Android, Multi-Layer beats them with features like support for layers and blending modes, a wide variety of features to edit photos, and even grid support. The app is available free to use; however, some features (like blending modes) are only available in the Premium version.
Pros:
Supports layers and blending modes.
Feature-rich.
Supports grids.
Cons:
The user interface can be confusing.
Supports JPG and PNG files only.
Contains advertisement in the free version.
File Support: PNG, JPG
Platforms: Android
Price: Free
Download Multi Layer from the Play Store
13. PhotoWizard (iOS)
If you are using an iOS device, PhotoWizard is one of the most potent free apps you can use to edit photos. The app does not support layers, but it brings a lot of powerful features you probably hard to find on other Photoshop alternatives for iOS. There’s a histogram, motion blur, gaussian blur, masking, curve editing, and many more. The app is a pretty powerful app for iOS devices, plus the masking feature works well.
Pros:
Easy to use
Supports curve editing and histogram
Feature-packed
Cons:
UI looks dated
No layer support
File Support: All iPhone supported formats.
Platforms: iOS
Price: Free
Download PhotoWizard from the App Store
Paid Photoshop Alternatives
14. Affinity Photo
Affinity Photo is a general image editing application that’s every bit as effective as Photoshop is and is among the best paid Photoshop alternatives available. The app brings many great and useful features, tools like the Pen tool, rulers, guides, and grids. It also has the clone tool, the healing tool, and most other tools you’d find in Adobe Photoshop. It has support for layers with blending modes and many more. Anyhow, the app isn’t cheap, and you’ll need to pay $49.99 to get it.
Pros:
Powerful Photoshop alternative.
Healing tool, Pen tool, clone tool, and more.
Support layers and blending modes.
Support rulers and grids.
Cons:
The UI can be a little confusing at first.
Limited file types are supported as compared to Photoshop.
No Camera image RAW tool
File Support: PSD, PNG, JPEG, GIF, TIFF, PDF, EPS, SVG, and more.
Platforms: Windows, macOS
Price: $49.99
15. Pixelmator
Pixelmator is a macOS-only picture editing tool that brings a ton of Photoshop-like functions and tools. It also supports some of the advanced features that Apple has brought to macOS, such as editing and exporting images stored in the High-Efficiency Image File format.
There are the basic features like support for layers and blending modes, various tools for editing the images, support for live previews, and SVG files. I likewise enjoy Pixelmator’s interface and find it to be rather a lot better than Photoshop’s user interface. However, it’s a very Mac-oriented user interface, so you may not like it as much as I do.
Pros:
Feature-packed.
Supports layers and blending modes.
Supports slice tool.
Excellent UI in line with Apple’s guidelines.
Cons:
Considerably different UI as compared to most photo editors.
It might not seem intuitive to Photoshop users.
Not for beginners.
File Support: HEIF, JPG, GIF, PNG, TIFF, Pixelmator Pro, PSD, PDF, and more.
Platforms: macOS
Price: 30-day free trial, paid version $60
16. PhotoLine
PhotoLine is an image editing software application that brings quite a bit of excellent functions to Windows and macOS systems. The general UI of the software application is good but not great; nevertheless, it brings support for layers and mixing modes, rulers, and guides, along with a bunch of significant effects and filters. The app likewise supports drawing vector images, so if that’s something you require, this is the app for you. PhotoLine is readily available to try for complimentary for thirty days. You will have to pay to continue using it.
Pros:
Support for layers and blending modes.
Support for rulers and guides
Supports vector drawing
Cons:
No patch tool, slice tool, or pen tool.
The toolbox looks confusing.
File Support: PNG, SVG, BMP, GIF, WEBP, JPG, PDF, and more.
Platforms: Windows, macOS
Price: 30-day free trial; ~$67 after that
Check Out these Photoshop Alternatives
So those were the 16 finest free (and paid) Photoshop alternatives that you can experiment with if you’re looking to ditch Photoshop or hesitate to pay subscription rates for image editing software application.
I have included free software, paid, mobile apps, and even dedicated Windows and macOS software application with varying degrees of modern features. Hence, no matter what you’re looking for in your Photoshop alternative, I believe you’ll discover it here. Finally, if you think I missed out on an excellent Photoshop alternative that is worthy of being on this list, let me know in the comments down below.
