Adobe Photoshop has been the industry leader in digital design for decades. It’s powerful, versatile, and packed with features for everything from photo editing to digital painting. But let’s be real—it’s not for everyone.
There are a few key reasons why you might be looking for an alternative:
- Subscription Model: Photoshop isn’t a one-time purchase. You have to pay a monthly or yearly fee, which adds up over time.
- System Requirements: It demands a high-performance computer with plenty of RAM and a good GPU. If you’re using an older or budget-friendly device, Photoshop might slow it down.
- Steep Learning Curve: Photoshop is feature-rich, but that also means it can be overwhelming. Beginners often struggle with its complex interface and tools.
- Changing Landscape: In 2025, AI-powered tools are transforming digital design. Many new apps offer features like automated editing, generative fill, and intelligent masking—without the complexity of Photoshop.
The good news? There are plenty of alternatives that offer powerful editing tools, user-friendly interfaces, and, in many cases, a lower price tag—or even free access. Whether you’re a professional designer, photographer, or a casual user looking for quick edits, there’s an option that fits your needs.
In this guide, you’ll discover 17 of the best Photoshop alternatives in 2025. Some focus on AI-powered automation, while others stick to traditional editing tools with an intuitive workflow. Let’s dive in and find the perfect fit for you!
Quick Comparison Table (2025 Updates)
Software | Pricing | Key AI Features | Target Audience |
---|---|---|---|
Affinity Photo 2 | One-time purchase | Inpainting Brush Tool (content-aware fill) | Photographers, Professionals |
GIMP 2.9 | Free | Supports plugins like G’MIC for denoising | Budget Users, Open-Source Enthusiasts |
Canva Pro | $12.99/month | Magic Design, AI Background Remover | Social Media Creators, Beginners |
Luminar Neo | $149 lifetime | Sky AI, Face AI, Portrait Bokeh AI | Photographers, AI Enthusiasts |
Adobe Firefly | $4.99/month | Generative Fill+, Text-to-Template | Adobe Ecosystem Users |
Corel PaintShop Pro | $99 one-time | AI Denoise, High-Resolution Upsampling | Hobbyists, Retro Editors |
Photoleap | $9.99/month | Generative Art, AI Collage | Digital Artists |
Capture One Pro | $24/month | AI Auto Masking, Tethered Shooting | Studio Photographers |
Figma Design+ | $15/month | Real-Time AI Assistant | UI/UX Teams |
Pixlr X | Freemium | AI Colorize, Auto Enhance | Quick Edits, Mobile Users |
Procreate Dreams | $19.99 one-time | AI Animation Assist | Illustrators, Animators |
Photopea | Free with ads | Neural Filters, PSD Support | Photoshop Veterans |
Fotor Pro | $8.99/month | AI Portrait Retouch, HDR Enhancer | Bloggers, Influencers |
Darkroom 5 | $5.99/month | AI Presets, RAW Editing | iOS/Mac Photographers |
Artbreeder | $10/month | AI-Generated Art, Style Mixing | Concept Artists |
Krita 6 | Free | AI Brush Stabilizer | Digital Painters |
Pixelmator Pro | $39.99 one-time | ML Super Resolution, Color Matching | Mac Users |
Affinity Photo 2 is a professional-grade photo editing software that offers a comprehensive set of tools for photographers and designers. It provides a non-destructive editing workflow, allowing you to make adjustments without permanently altering your original images.
The software supports full RAW development, enabling you to process RAW files with high precision. Additionally, Affinity Photo 2 offers a vast library of brushes, including the ability to import your own, providing flexibility and creativity in your editing process.
Key Features:
- Non-Destructive Editing Workflow: Make adjustments without permanently altering your original images, preserving the integrity of your files.
- Robust RAW Processing: Process RAW files with high precision, ensuring maximum image quality and detail.
- HDR Merge: Combine multiple exposures to create high dynamic range images, capturing a wider range of light and detail.
- Focus Stacking: Combine multiple images taken at different focus distances to achieve greater depth of field in your photos.
- Extensive Brush Library: Choose from a vast library of brushes, including the ability to import your own, providing flexibility and creativity in your editing process.
AI Tools:
- Live Masks: Create and edit masks in real-time, allowing for precise adjustments and selections.
- Live Mesh Warp: Apply non-destructive mesh warps to your images, enabling complex transformations with ease.
- Advanced Selections: Utilize advanced selection tools to isolate and edit specific areas of your images accurately.
Pros:
- One-Time Purchase: No subscription fees; pay once and own the software.
- Cross-Platform Support: Available on Windows, macOS, and iPad, providing flexibility across devices.
- Comprehensive Toolset: Offers a wide range of professional-grade tools for photo editing and design.
- Regular Updates: Receives regular updates with new features and improvements.
Cons:
- Learning Curve: May require time to master due to its extensive features.
- Limited Cloud Integration: Lacks built-in cloud collaboration features.
- No Subscription Model: While the one-time purchase is a pro for many, it may not suit those preferring subscription-based models.
Affinity Photo 2 is ideal for photographers and designers seeking a powerful, one-time purchase alternative to subscription-based photo editing software.
2. GIMP 3.0
GIMP 3.0 is a free, open-source photo editing software that offers a range of tools for both beginners and professionals. It supports various file formats and provides advanced features to enhance your images.
GIMP 3.0 can integrate with TensorFlow, a popular machine learning framework, to import and utilize custom AI models. This integration allows you to apply advanced AI-driven effects and enhancements to your images.
For example, a plugin developed by Davide-sd enables style transfer using machine learning algorithms within GIMP. To use this plugin, you need to install TensorFlow in the Python environment used by GIMP. This setup allows you to leverage TensorFlow’s capabilities directly within GIMP, expanding your creative possibilities.
Key Features:
- Non-Destructive Editing: Make changes to your images without permanently altering the original file, allowing you to experiment freely.
- Advanced Color Management: Ensure consistent and accurate colors across different devices and media.
- High-Quality Filters: Apply a variety of filters to enhance or transform your images creatively.
- Customizable Interface: Arrange tools and panels to suit your workflow, making the editing process more efficient.
AI Tools:
- On-Canvas Gradient Editing: Edit gradients directly on your image, providing a more intuitive and efficient workflow.
- Enhanced Selection Tools: Use advanced selection methods to isolate and edit specific areas of your images with precision.
Pros:
- Free and Open-Source: No cost to use, and you can modify the software to fit your needs.
- Regular Updates: The community actively develops and improves the software, ensuring it stays current.
- Extensive Plugin Support: Access a wide range of plugins to extend functionality.
Cons:
- Steeper Learning Curve: The interface and features may be complex for new users.
- Limited Cloud Integration: Lacks built-in cloud collaboration features.
GIMP 2.9 is ideal for those seeking a powerful, cost-free alternative to commercial photo editing software, with the added benefit of AI integration through TensorFlow.
3. Canva Pro

Canva Pro is a user-friendly design tool that empowers you to create professional-quality graphics without the need for advanced design skills. With its intuitive drag-and-drop interface and a vast library of templates, photos, and videos, you can quickly produce eye-catching content for various platforms.
Key Features:
- Extensive Library: Access over 100 million premium photos, videos, and elements to enhance your designs.
- Magic Resize: Easily adjust your designs to fit different formats, saving time and ensuring consistency across platforms.
- Brand Kit: Maintain brand consistency by uploading your logo, fonts, and color palette for quick application across all designs.
- Background Remover: Remove backgrounds from images with a single click, streamlining your editing process.
- Content Planner: Schedule and publish your social media posts directly from Canva, ensuring timely and consistent content delivery.
AI Tools:
- Magic Design: Generate complete design mockups from simple text prompts, such as “eco-friendly yoga poster,” to kickstart your creative process.
- Magic Write: Receive AI-generated text suggestions for captions, descriptions, and more, enhancing your content creation efficiency.
- Magic Eraser: Quickly remove unwanted objects or people from your images, refining your visuals effortlessly.
Pros:
- User-Friendly Interface: Designed for ease of use, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced designers.
- Collaborative Features: Work seamlessly with team members, allowing for real-time feedback and edits.
- Time-Saving Tools: Features like Magic Resize and Background Remover streamline the design process, saving you valuable time.
Cons:
- Limited Layer Control: Advanced editing may require more precise layer management, which is somewhat limited in Canva.
- Export Limits on Free Plans: Free users may encounter restrictions on export quality and file types.
Pricing:
Canva Pro is available for $12.99 per month, offering a comprehensive suite of features to elevate your design projects.
Ideal For:
Small businesses, influencers, and non-designers seeking an intuitive platform to create high-quality, branded content efficiently.
4. Luminar Neo

Luminar Neo is a photo editing software that leverages artificial intelligence to simplify and enhance your editing process. It’s designed to automate repetitive tasks, allowing you to focus more on your creative vision.
Key Features:
- Sky AI 5.0: Replace skies in your photos while matching lighting and reflections, creating realistic and dramatic effects.
- Portrait Bokeh AI: Simulate depth-of-field effects with realistic lens blur, adding a professional touch to your portraits.
- Skin Enhancer: Smooth skin imperfections while retaining natural textures, ensuring your subjects look their best.
- One-Click Presets: Apply presets tailored for landscapes, portraits, and architecture to quickly achieve desired looks.
- Layer Support: Combine multiple images and effects using layers for composite edits, offering flexibility in your creative process.
AI Tools:
- Generative Tools: Analyze your images and create new elements based on their content. Currently, Luminar Neo has three Generative tools:
- GenErase: Erase unwanted elements and seamlessly fill the gaps.
- GenSwap: Swap elements for other prompted elements.
- GenExpand: Expand the scene beyond the edges of the frame.
Pros:
- Lifetime License Available: Choose between a one-time payment or a subscription model, depending on your preference.
- GPU Acceleration: Experience faster rendering times, enhancing your workflow efficiency.
Cons:
- No Vector Tools or Typography Features: Limited in vector-based editing and advanced text manipulation.
- High RAM Requirement for 4K+ Edits: Editing high-resolution images may require substantial system memory.
Pricing:
- One-Time Payment: $149 for a lifetime license.
- Subscription: $9.99 per month.
Ideal For:
Wedding photographers and travel bloggers seeking efficient, AI-driven photo editing solutions.
5. Adobe Firefly
Adobe Firefly is a creative AI tool that helps you generate and edit images using simple text prompts. It’s designed to make your creative process faster and more intuitive.
Key Features:
- Text to Image: Describe the image you want, and Firefly will create it for you.
- Generative Fill: Add or remove elements in your images by just typing what you needs.
- Text Effects: Create unique text styles to enhance your designs.
- Generative Match: Apply the style of one image to another, ensuring consistency across your projects.
- Photo Settings: Adjust settings like aperture and shutter speed to fine-tune your images.
- Structure Reference: Use an existing image as a template to generate new images with the same layout, saving time and ensuring consistency.
- Generative Match: Apply the style of one image to another, ensuring consistency across your projects.
Pros:
- User-Friendly: Easy to use, even if you’re new to design.
- Time-Saving: Quickly generate and edit images, speeding up your workflow.
- Creative Flexibility: Offers various tools to bring your ideas to life.
Cons:
- Limited Advanced Features: May not have all the complex tools some professionals need.
- Subscription-Based: Requires a subscription, which might not suit everyone.
Pricing:
Adobe Firefly is available through Adobe’s subscription plans. For detailed pricing, visit Adobe’s official website.
Ideal For:
Adobe Firefly is perfect for designers, marketers, and content creators who want to quickly generate and edit images without needing advanced design skills.
6. Corel PaintShop Pro
Corel PaintShop Pro is a comprehensive photo editing and graphic design software that combines advanced tools with user-friendly features. It’s designed to help you create stunning images and designs without the need for a subscription.
Key Features:
- Focus Stacking: Combine multiple images taken at different focus distances to create a final composite with a greater depth of field.
- AfterShot Lab: A RAW editing feature integrated within PaintShop Pro, providing advanced tools for optimizing images in the RAW file format.
- Enhanced Frame Tool: Add creative frames to your photos with improved controls and a variety of styles.
- AI-Powered Tools: Features like AI Denoise and AI Upsampling help improve image quality and resolution.
Pros:
- One-Time Purchase: No subscription fees; pay once and own the software.
- Comprehensive Toolset: Offers a wide range of editing and design tools suitable for both beginners and professionals.
- User-Friendly Interface: Intuitive design makes it easy to navigate and use.
Cons:
- Limited Cloud Integration: Lacks extensive cloud-based features for collaboration and storage.
- Learning Curve: Some advanced features might take time to learn.
Pricing:
Corel PaintShop Pro 2025 is available for a one-time purchase of $79.99.
Ideal For:
Photographers, graphic designers, and hobbyists are looking for a powerful yet affordable alternative to subscription-based photo editing software.
7. Photoleap by Lightricks
Photoleap is a versatile photo editing app that empowers you to transform your photos into stunning works of art. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting out, Photoleap offers a range of tools to enhance your images.
Key Features:
- Layered Editing: Combine multiple images and adjust each layer separately to create unique compositions.
- AI-Powered Tools: Utilize artificial intelligence to remove backgrounds, add effects, and more, simplifying complex editing tasks.
- Text and Graphics: Add text, stickers, and other graphics to personalize your images and make them stand out.
- Filters and Effects: Apply a variety of filters and effects to give your photos a unique look and feel.
Pros:
- User-Friendly: Designed with an intuitive interface, making photo editing accessible to everyone.
- Creative Flexibility: Offers a wide range of tools to bring your ideas to life, from basic edits to advanced compositions.
- Regular Updates: Frequent updates introduce new features and improvements, keeping the app fresh and exciting.
Cons:
- Limited Free Features: Some advanced tools and features require a subscription, which may not suit everyone’s needs.
- Performance: The app may run slower on older devices, potentially affecting the editing experience.
Pricing:
Photoleap offers a free version with basic features. For full access to all tools and features, a subscription is required. Check the app for current pricing details.
Ideal For:
Photoleap is perfect for anyone looking to enhance their photos with professional-quality tools, whether you’re a hobbyist or a seasoned photographer
8. Capture One ProÂ
Capture One Pro is a professional-grade photo editing software that offers advanced tools for photographers seeking precision and control. Whether you’re working with RAW files or need detailed adjustments, Capture One Pro provides a comprehensive suite of features to enhance your workflow.
Key Features:
- Match Look: This feature allows you to match the style of one image to another, ensuring consistency across your projects.
- Assisted Masking: Simplify complex masking tasks with AI-assisted tools that help you create precise selections quickly.
- Snap to Eye: Automatically detects and focuses on the eyes in portrait images, streamlining your editing process.
- Advanced Color Editor: Offers detailed control over color adjustments, enabling you to fine-tune hues, saturation, and luminance.
- Tethered Capture: Connect your camera directly to the software for real-time image capture, ideal for studio settings.
Pros:
- Comprehensive Toolset: Provides a wide range of editing tools suitable for various photography styles.
- High-Quality Output: Delivers exceptional image quality with precise color accuracy.
- Customizable Workspace: Allows you to tailor the interface to your specific workflow needs.
Cons:
- Learning Curve: The extensive features may require time to master, especially for new users.
- System Requirements: Requires a robust computer system to run efficiently, which may be a consideration for some users.
Pricing:
Capture One Pro 2025 is available through subscription and perpetual license options. For detailed pricing, visit the official Capture One website.
Ideal For:
Professional photographers and serious enthusiasts who require advanced editing capabilities and precise control over their images.
9. Figma Design+
Figma Design+ is an advanced design tool that integrates artificial intelligence to enhance your UI/UX design process. With its AI assistant, you can streamline tasks, improve design consistency, and boost productivity.
Key Features:
- AI-Powered Design Suggestions: The AI assistant analyzes your design and suggests improvements, such as adjusting text, images, fonts, and colors to enhance usability.
- Automated Content Generation: Quickly generate placeholder content, icons, and illustrations to speed up your design workflow.
- Responsive Layouts: Automatically create responsive designs that adapt seamlessly to different screen sizes and devices.
- Design Consistency: Maintain uniformity across your projects with AI-driven tools that ensure consistent styling and layout.
Pros:
- Enhanced Productivity: Automates repetitive tasks, allowing you to focus more on creative aspects of design.
- Improved Design Quality: AI suggestions help refine your designs, leading to more polished and user-friendly interfaces.
- Seamless Integration: Easily integrates with your existing Figma projects, enhancing your current workflow without disruption.
Cons:
- Learning Curve: New users may need time to fully understand and utilize all AI features effectively.
- Dependence on AI: Over-reliance on AI suggestions might limit creative exploration and personal design expression.
Pricing:
Figma Design+ offers various subscription plans to suit different needs. For detailed pricing information, visit the official Figma website.
Ideal For:
UI/UX designers seeking to enhance their design process with AI-driven tools, improving efficiency and design quality.
10. Pixlr X
Pixlr X is a user-friendly photo editing tool that offers a range of features to enhance your images. Whether you’re a beginner or looking for quick edits, Pixlr X provides an intuitive interface and essential editing tools.
Key Features:
- Basic Editing Tools: Crop, adjust, and apply filters to your photos with ease.
- AI-Powered Features: Utilize AI tools like AI Cutout to remove backgrounds and unwanted objects.
- Design Elements: Access a library of overlays, stickers, and icons to personalize your images.
- Layer Support: Work with multiple layers for more complex edits.
Pros:
- User-Friendly: Designed for quick and easy photo editing.
- AI Tools: Incorporates AI features to simplify complex editing tasks.
- Design Elements: Offers a variety of overlays and stickers to enhance your photos.
Cons:
- Limited Advanced Features: Some advanced tools are only available in the premium version.
- Internet Connection Required: Being a web-based tool, a stable internet connection is necessary.
Pricing:
Pixlr X offers both free and premium versions:
- Free Version: Provides basic editing tools with ads.
- Premium Version: Priced at $3.99 per month or $7.99 per year, it offers an ad-free experience and access to advanced features.
Ideal For:
Individuals seeking a straightforward and efficient photo editing tool with essential features and AI capabilities.
11. Procreate Dreams
Procreate Dreams is an animation app designed to help you create rich 2D animations, expressive videos, and captivating stories directly on your iPad. It offers a range of powerful tools suitable for both beginners and experienced animators.
Key Features:
- Flipbook Mode: Draw full-screen with onion skins, allowing you to flip between frames effortlessly.
- Lip-Sync AI: Matches mouth movements to audio clips for character animation.
- Drawing & Painting: Utilize all your favourite Procreate brushes with enhanced resolution for detailed animations.
- Performing: Animate by recording motion or effects through touch, responding instantly as the movie plays.
- Timeline Editing: Select and group content with Apple Pencil to apply bulk actions and edits.
- Audio & Video Integration: Edit video and enrich with sound, including dramatic voiceovers, music, and sound effects.
Pros:
- User-Friendly Interface: Designed for touch, iPad, and Apple Pencil, making animation accessible to everyone.
- Comprehensive Tools: Offers everything you need to animate, from drawing to editing and compositing.
- High-Resolution Support: Work on up to 4K ProRes footage on supported devices.
Cons:
- Feature Limitations: Some users have noted that certain features from the original Procreate app are not yet available in Procreate Dreams.
- Learning Curve: While intuitive, mastering all features may take some time for new users.
Pricing:
Procreate Dreams is available for a one-time purchase of $19.99 USD, with no subscriptions. Regional pricing may differ; check the App Store for pricing in your currency.
Ideal For:
Artists and animators looking for a powerful yet accessible tool to create 2D animations and videos on the iPad.
12. Photopea
Photopea is a free, web-based photo and graphics editor that offers a comprehensive suite of tools for image editing, illustration, and web design. It supports various file formats, including PSD, AI, and Sketch, making it a versatile alternative to traditional desktop applications.
Key Features:
- Layer Support: Work with multiple layers, layer masks, and blending modes for complex compositions.
- Advanced Editing Tools: Utilize tools like spot healing, clone stamp, patch tool, and various filters to enhance your images.
- Vector Graphics: Create and edit vector shapes directly within the editor, suitable for designing logos and illustrations.
- File Compatibility: Open and save files in multiple formats, including PSD, AI, and Sketch, ensuring seamless integration with other design tools.
- AI-Powered Features: Remove backgrounds with a single click or replace parts of an image using text descriptions.
Pros:
- Free Access: Offers a robust set of features without any cost.
- No Installation Required: Being browser-based, there’s no need to download or install software.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: Works on any device with a modern web browser.
Cons:
- Performance: May experience slower performance on devices with limited resources.
- Feature Limitations: Some advanced features may not be as robust as those in dedicated desktop applications.
Pricing:
Photopea is free to use with ads. To remove ads and support the development, users can opt for a premium subscription.
Ideal For:
Individuals and small businesses seeking a free, accessible, and feature-rich photo and graphics editor without the need for installation.
13. Fotor Pro
Fotor Pro is a premium photo editing and design tool that offers advanced features and AI-powered tools to enhance your creative projects.
Key Features:
- Advanced Editing Tools: Access features like AI Photo Enhancer, AI Background Remover, and AI Object Remover to refine your images.
- Design Resources: Utilize over 100,000 templates and design resources to create professional-quality graphics.
- Stock Photos: Download up to 1,000 HD stock photos monthly for personal and commercial use.
- Fonts and Effects: Choose from 300+ premium photo effects and frames, and 300+ stylish fonts.
- Cloud Storage: Benefit from substantial cloud storage for your projects and seamless synchronization across devices.
Pros:
- Comprehensive Tools: Offers a wide range of editing and design features suitable for various creative needs.
- High-Quality Resources: Access to a vast library of templates, stock photos, and fonts enhances design possibilities.
- Cross-Platform Access: Sync your projects across multiple devices, ensuring flexibility and convenience.
Cons:
- Subscription Cost: The premium features require a subscription, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious users.
- Learning Curve: New users might need some time to familiarize themselves with the extensive features and interface.
Pricing:
- Monthly Subscription: $8.99 per month.
- Annual Subscription: $39.99 per year (equivalent to $3.33 per month).
Ideal For:
Photographers, designers, and content creators seeking a robust, AI-powered tool for photo editing and graphic design.
14. Darkroom 5
Darkroom is a versatile photo and video editing application designed for Apple devices, including iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Vision Pro. It offers a range of powerful, nondestructive editing tools and presets, allowing users to enhance their photos and videos with ease. Darkroom integrates seamlessly with Apple iCloud Photos, enabling users to access and edit their entire photo library without the need for manual imports.
Key Features:
- Nondestructive Editing: Make adjustments to photos and videos without permanently altering the original files.
- Comprehensive Toolset: Access a wide array of editing tools, including color grading, curves, selective color adjustments, and more.
- Premium Presets: Utilize a collection of handcrafted presets to quickly achieve desired looks.
- Video Processing: Edit and export 4K videos in various formats.
- Cross-Device Synchronization: Edit photos and videos across iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Vision Pro with consistent tools and settings.
Pricing:
Darkroom offers both free and premium subscription options:
- Free Version: Provides access to basic editing tools and features.
- Darkroom+ Subscription: Unlocks advanced features such as color grading, AI-powered masks, and video processing. The subscription is available at $3.99 per month or $19.99 per year.
Pros:
- User-Friendly Interface: Designed for both beginners and professionals, offering an intuitive and efficient editing experience.
- Seamless Integration: Works smoothly with Apple’s ecosystem, including iCloud Photos and various Apple devices.
- Regular Updates: Receives consistent updates, introducing new features and improvements.
Cons:
- Platform Limitation: Currently available only for Apple devices, limiting accessibility for users on other platforms.
- Subscription Model: Some users might favor a one-time purchase instead of a subscription.
Ideal For:
Photographers, videographers, and content creators seeking a powerful yet user-friendly editing solution within the Apple ecosystem.
15. Artbreeder

Artbreeder is a collaborative, AI-powered platform that enables users to create and modify images by blending existing ones. Utilizing machine learning models like StyleGAN and BigGAN, allows for the generation of faces, landscapes, and various other categories.
Key Features:
- Image Remixing: Users can “breed” images by combining them, and adjusting sliders to control the influence of each parent image on the offspring.
- Customizable Sliders: Artbreeder offers fine-grained control over images through numerous curated sliders, with the option to create custom sliders for more precise adjustments.
- Diverse Categories: The platform supports various categories, including portraits, landscapes, and paintings, allowing for a wide range of creative possibilities.
Pros:
- User-Friendly Interface: Designed for ease of use, Artbreeder is accessible to both beginners and experienced artists.
- Collaborative Community: The platform fosters a community where users can share and remix each other’s creations, enhancing the creative process.
- Free Access: Artbreeder offers free access to its basic features, making it accessible to a wide audience.
Cons:
- Limited Control: While the platform offers significant creative freedom, some users may find the control over image generation to be less precise compared to traditional image editing software.
- Internet Dependency: As a web-based platform, a stable internet connection is required to use Artbreeder effectively.
Pricing:
Artbreeder provides free access to its basic features, with premium options available for users seeking advanced functionalities.
Ideal For:
Artbreeder is ideal for artists, designers, and enthusiasts interested in exploring AI-generated art and collaborating within a creative community.
16. Krita 5.2.9

Krita 5.2.9, released on January 29, 2025, is the latest version of this free, open-source digital painting software. It offers a comprehensive suite of tools for artists, including advanced brush engines, layer management, and support for various file formats.
Key Features:
- Advanced Brush Engines: Customize brushes to fit your style by adjusting shape, texture, and dynamics. The brush stabilizer ensures smoother strokes, ideal for inking, while dynamic brushes respond to pressure and tilt for a natural painting feel.
- Layer Management: Use multiple layers, including raster, vector, and filter layers, to create complex compositions. Different blending modes allow for varied visual effects, and group layers keep your workspace organized.
- File Format Support: Krita supports various formats like PSD, PNG, JPEG, and TIFF for compatibility with other software. It also works with Open Document Format (ODF) for easy collaboration.
- Animation Support: Create traditional animations with frame-by-frame tools and use onion skinning for consistency. Export animations as GIFs or videos for flexible sharing.
Pros:
- Free and Open-Source: No cost and open for community contributions.
- Cross-Platform: Available on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- Active Community: Regular updates and a supportive user community.
Cons:
- Learning Curve: Some features may require time to master.
- Performance: May be resource-intensive on older hardware.
Pricing:
Krita is free to download and use. While the software is free, users can support its development through donations or by purchasing merchandise.
17. Pixelmator Pro
Pixelmator Pro is a comprehensive image editing application designed for macOS, offering a wide array of tools for photo editing, graphic design, digital painting, and vector graphics.
It provides a user-friendly interface with over 50 image editing tools, including advanced features like AI-powered editing, background removal, and support for various media formats such as JPEG, RAW, Apple ProRAW, PSD, PNG, GIF, and MP4.
Key Features:
- Advanced Editing Tools: Pixelmator Pro offers a suite of over 50 image editing tools, including advanced features like AI-powered editing, background removal, and support for various media formats such as JPEG, RAW, Apple ProRAW, PSD, PNG, GIF, and MP4.
- Vector Graphics Support: The application supports vector graphics, including SVG files, enabling users to create scalable designs and illustrations.
- Non-Destructive Editing: Pixelmator Pro allows for non-destructive editing, enabling users to make adjustments without permanently altering the original image.
- Machine Learning Integration: The software integrates machine learning technologies, such as CoreML, to enhance editing capabilities, including features like ML Super Resolution and Smart Replace.
Pros:
- User-Friendly Interface: Designed with a clean and intuitive interface, Pixelmator Pro is accessible to both beginners and professionals.
- Cost-Effective: As a one-time purchase application, Pixelmator Pro offers a more affordable alternative to subscription-based software like Adobe Photoshop.
- Regular Updates: The application receives regular updates, introducing new features and improvements to enhance user experience.
Cons:
- Mac-Only Availability: Pixelmator Pro is exclusively available for macOS, limiting its accessibility to users on other operating systems.
- Learning Curve: While user-friendly, some advanced features may require time to master, especially for users new to image editing software.
Pricing:
Pixelmator Pro is available for a one-time purchase of $49.99, offering a cost-effective alternative to subscription-based image editing software.
Ideal For:
Pixelmator Pro is ideal for photographers, graphic designers, illustrators, and digital artists seeking a powerful yet affordable image editing solution on macOS.
How to Choose the Right Photoshop Alternative
With so many Photoshop alternatives available, picking the right one depends on your budget, skill level, and editing needs. Here’s a simple guide to help you decide.
Budget: What Can You Afford?
If you’re looking for a free option, GIMP, Photopea, and Pixlr are great choices. They offer solid editing tools without any cost, making them ideal if you’re just starting or working on occasional projects.
Prefer a one-time purchase instead of a subscription? Affinity Photo and Corel PaintShop Pro give you professional tools with a single payment. This saves you money in the long run and avoids monthly fees.
If you’re comfortable with a subscription, Canva Pro and Adobe Firefly offer advanced AI-powered design tools. These services continuously update with new features, but they do require ongoing payments.
Skill Level: Beginner or Pro?
If you’re a beginner, you need something easy to use. Canva and Fotor are great for quick edits and simple designs. They have drag-and-drop features, built-in templates, and AI-powered tools that make designing effortless.
For professionals, software like Capture One and Affinity Photo offers powerful tools for high-end editing. These programs provide precise color grading, detailed layer controls, and advanced retouching tools for serious creative work.
AI Needs: What Kind of Editing Do You Do?
If you focus on photo editing, tools like Luminar Neo and Skylum use AI to automate tedious tasks like sky replacement, portrait enhancements, and background removal. These make your workflow faster and smoother.
If you’re into AI-generated art, Artbreeder and Photoleap let you create unique artwork with AI assistance. These tools blend images, styles, and textures to produce stunning visuals with minimal effort.
For graphic design, software like Figma and Adobe Express offer AI-driven features to speed up UI/UX design, branding, and layout creation. They help you create professional designs without the need for deep technical knowledge.
Final Thoughts on Photoshop Alternatives
You don’t need Photoshop to create stunning designs or edit photos like a pro. In 2025, many powerful alternatives fit different budgets, skill levels, and creative needs.
If you want a free tool, GIMP, Photopea, and Pixlr offer solid features without costing a dime. For a one-time purchase, Affinity Photo and Corel PaintShop Pro give you pro-level tools without a subscription. And if you prefer AI-powered design and editing, Canva Pro, Luminar Neo, and Adobe Firefly offer smart automation that speeds up your workflow.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for an easy-to-use tool or a professional needing advanced features, there’s a Photoshop alternative that’s perfect for you. Pick the one that suits your work and start creating with confidence.