Best Free Alternatives to Adobe Photoshop (2025) | SoftGlide

Adobe Photoshop is a powerful tool, but its high cost makes it inaccessible for many users. Fortunately, there are excellent free alternatives available that offer robust features for photo editing, digital painting, and graphic design. Here are the best free alternatives to Adobe Photoshop in 2025.

GIMP 2.10.34 (Download Link)

Latest Version: GIMP 2.10.34
Supported OS: Windows, macOS, Linux
Download Link: GIMP Official Website

Features:

• Professional-grade photo editing tools.

• Supports layers, masks, and advanced selection tools.

• Customizable interface with plugin support.

• Free and open-source with no hidden fees.

Installation Guide:

1. Visit the GIMP download page.

2. Select your operating system and download the installer.

3. Run the setup file and follow the on-screen instructions.

4. Launch GIMP and start editing!

Pros & Cons:

✅ Free and open-source.
✅ Wide range of features for professional editing.
❌ Steep learning curve for beginners.

Krita 5.1.5 (Download Link)

Latest Version: Krita 5.1.5
Supported OS: Windows, macOS, Linux
Download Link: Krita Official Website

Features:

• Designed for digital painting and illustration.

• Supports brushes, layers, and animation tools.

• Open-source with regular updates.

Installation Guide:

1. Download Krita from the official website.

2. Open the installer and follow the setup instructions.

3. Launch Krita and start creating artwork.

Pros & Cons:

✅ Ideal for digital painting.
✅ Free with no restrictions.
❌ Lacks some advanced photo editing tools.

Paint.NET 4.3.12 (Download Link)

Latest Version: Paint.NET 4.3.12
Supported OS: Windows
Download Link: Paint.NET Official Website

Features:

• Simple yet powerful photo editing software.

• Supports layers, filters, and plugins.

• Fast and lightweight with an easy-to-use interface.

Installation Guide:

1. Download Paint.NET from the official website.

2. Run the installer and follow the instructions.

3. Open Paint.NET and start editing images.

Pros & Cons:

✅ User-friendly and lightweight.
✅ Great for quick edits.
❌ Windows-only, lacks advanced editing features.

Pixlr X & Pixlr E (Download Link)

Latest Version: Web-based
Supported OS: Online (Works on all platforms)
Download Link: Pixlr Official Website

Features:

• Web-based editing with no installation required.

• AI-powered tools for quick enhancements.

• Simple interface for beginners.

Installation Guide:

1. Go to Pixlr.

2. Choose Pixlr X (basic) or Pixlr E (advanced).

3. Upload your image and start editing instantly.

Pros & Cons:

✅ No installation needed, works on any device.
✅ AI-powered tools for easy editing.
❌ Requires an internet connection.

Photopea (Download Link)

Latest Version: Web-based
Supported OS: Online (Works on all platforms)
Download Link: Photopea Official Website

Features:

• Web-based Photoshop alternative with full PSD support.

• Works directly in the browser without installation.

• Supports advanced tools like layers, masks, and blending modes.

Installation Guide:

1. Open Photopea in your web browser.

2. Upload your image or PSD file.

3. Start editing with Photoshop-like tools.

Pros & Cons:

✅ Free and works on any device.
✅ Supports PSD files and advanced editing tools.
❌ Online-only, requires an internet connection.

Canva (Download Link)

Latest Version: Web-based & Mobile App
Supported OS: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS
Download Link: Canva Official Website

Features:

• Drag-and-drop interface for graphic design.

• Thousands of templates and design elements.

• Free and easy to use.

Installation Guide:

1. Visit Canva and create a free account.

2. Download the mobile or desktop app (optional).

3. Start designing with templates and customization tools.

Pros & Cons:

✅ Great for beginners and non-designers.
✅ Free templates and design elements.
❌ Limited advanced editing features.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a free alternative to Adobe Photoshop, these options offer powerful features for editing, designing, and creating digital art. Whether you need a professional-grade editor like GIMP or a beginner-friendly tool like Canva, you’ll find an option that suits your needs. Try them out and see which works best for you!