Still, this is definitely a top recommendation for a new starter. However, the lack of slice, patch or spot healing tools and no RAW compatibility mean you will outgrow this as you go pro. Layers and blending modes, rulers and guides, and a great history tool make this a strong option for beginners. Now, before you scroll on and ignore this spot, Paint.NET actually manages to do a lot more than you think, and crams its wealth of features into the easy-to-use UI of Paint itself.

This was originally designed to be a more advanced version of Microsoft’s long-running graphics editor. If the name is making you think of MS Paint, good. Of course, there are some setbacks, such as the limited file compatibility, no rulers or guidelines, and the lack of a pen tool, but this is a strong option when you’re working in Chrome (or Edge) and are looking for a quick photo edit. Without spending a single penny, you’ve got access to curves, blur, sharpen, noise level tools and much more.

To that, I say look again, as Pixlr Editor comes from the team over at AutoDesk and gives you some really powerful tools. “A browser-based tool!?” I hear the outcry of creative pros out there, followed shortly by laughter as it surely can’t face up to the power and capabilities of Photoshop. GIMP is overflowing with features, provided you can look past the inability to edit RAW photos, and can invest some time in getting acquainted with the complicated UI, this software will cover all your bases. One of the most well-known free alternatives to Photoshop, the GNU Image Manipulation Program (GIMP - that’s what it stands for, so get your mind out the gutter) is ideal for photographers looking for something that can keep up with their edits, no matter how simple or complex they are. Here are the best free Photoshop alternatives you can download right now: While they don’t come with the same cloud storage and multi-device compatibility as Adobe’s solution, these options don’t cost you anything. Well, lucky for you, the market for free photo editing software is ripe for the picking.

On the face of it, that’s an affordable price but what if you’re watching every penny at the moment or would rather not get stuck in another subscription plan?

Free alternatives to adobe photoshop