When it comes to photo editing tools, Photoshop is one of the most popular platforms available. Photoshop has ruled the roost for a long time, boasting an array of unique features and helpful photo editing tools. It allows users to work with a range of file formats and achieve professional quality results, setting an industry standard as the ultimate photo editor desktop software.
While this photo editing platform is amazing in its own right, you might like to experiment with an alternative photo editor instead. There are plenty out there, and while some may disappoint, lacking all the features you need to carry out your photo edits, others are more than a match for Photoshop. So, without further ado, let’s look at the best Photoshop alternatives available today.
Note: A lot of these apps have a free version or free plan of some kind, so you can start editing without spending any money. However, they mostly come with paid subscriptions, unlocking additional features many users may appreciate.
1. Pixlr
This web editor is by far the most powerful free Photoshop alternative you’ll find. Pixlr is easy to use and has many of the heavy-hitting editing tools that you can usually only find in paid programs, like cloning and color replacement. It’s the closest thing to free Photoshop you’ll find on the web.
2. Polarr
Out of all the apps listed, Polarr gives you the most control over photo effects and color selection, with a full range of innovative new features for all your editing needs. You can even create filters (called “dynamic styles” in the editor). The best editing options on it, in our opinion, are the artificial distortions and lens physics. They give digital pictures that film quality look.
3. Adobe Express
One of the many awesome things about Adobe is that they offer some of the image editing tools from their paid programs for free online. Adobe Express is pretty simple: basic (crop, re-size, general touch-up); adjustment (exposure, highlight, sharpen); and effects (crystallize, sketch, distort). But they are very effective. Some of the best advanced features are found in the decorating tool sets. You can easily add text, sticky notes, costumes, and other fun stuff to your photos.
4. PicMonkey
Even if you have full access to the entire Photoshop suite, PicMonkey is a great, affordable alternative or complement to photo editing. The simple but powerful editing capabilities of this app will do wonders for your image. You can add different images together, set canvas backgrounds, add text, and much more, including working on multiple images at once and creating web graphics.
5. Fotor
Fotor is the perfect photo editor. You can perform very detailed and delicate work, like adding or fixing makeup to someone’s face. You can even whiten teeth, remove blemishes, and do a little reshaping. Though it can lag at times, it’s a great app, and you can really do a lot with the editing tools.
What to Look for in Photoshop Alternatives for Photo Editing
There are a few key factors to focus on when comparing photo editors:
- Features: Naturally, you need a photo editor that offers the features and functions you intend to use. That might include object removal, color correction, or even generative AI features to enhance your photos or create a new image from scratch.
- Ease-of-use: Look for a photo editor that’s easy to work with, with a fluid user interface, drag-and-drop mechanics, and clear, easy-to-follow menus.
- Price: As mentioned earlier, many photo editing programs offer free trials or plans, like Adobe Express and Pixlr. Others have quite pricey premium plans. Think about how much you’re okay with spending to find a photo editing tool that’s right for you.
- Compatibility: Photo editors vary in terms of which raw files and formats they support. Adobe programs often work with PSD files, for example, but others focus on JPGs, PNGs, etc. Make sure you pick a tool that works with the image formats you like to use, especially if you plan to upload them to social media sites.
- Web or Desktop: Photoshop is an example of a desktop program, while Canva is a web or browser tool. Some people prefer having their tools downloaded to their device, to use even when they’re offline. Others like the convenience and accessibility of a browser solution.
Which Free Online Photoshop Alternative Is Your Favorite?
By combining the strengths of these online Photoshop alternatives, you can get amazing results without paying a cent. Have you created anything in a free Photoshop alternative that you love? Post it below.
FAQ
It depends on several factors, including your experience level and what you intend to do. Some tools are ideal if you want to edit photos, while others offer a range of graphic design features to help you create web graphics or animation effects. Some of the top Photoshop alternatives for photo editing include Affinity, Polarr, and PicMonkey.
Many graphic designers, digital artists, and professional photographers turn to Photoshop to create graphics and edit photos. However, many also prefer other forms of photo editing software, like Affinity, Polarr, or Canva. It all depends on the individual user and their personal preferences and needs.
Most Photoshop alternatives have paid plans, but there are several you can use for free. Of those options, the best free Photoshop alternative is arguably Pixlr, thanks to its great mix of basic image editing tools and advanced features, helping it appeal to both beginner and experienced users alike. It’s basically an online free version of Photoshop. Canva is another terrific Photoshop alternative web app you can use completely free.
AI image generation is an emerging technology with a lot of potential for image editing and graphic design. You can use generative AI tools for basic adjustments, like color correction, to more advanced photo editing. Some of the top AI tools currently available include Jasper Art, Midjourney, RelayThat, Adobe Sensei, and Deignhill AI.
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