01/ GIMP
Best for: Advanced photo editing and retouching.
Layers, masks, curves and plugins; opens PSD files with basic layer support.
Runs on: Windows, macOS, Linux
Visit GIMPDesign & Photo · Photo editing
Free alternatives to Adobe Photoshop
Adobe Photoshop by Adobe: The industry-standard raster editor for photo retouching, compositing and digital art. Pricing: subscription. Here are 4 free options that cover the same job.
| Alternative | Type | Platforms | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
GIMPLayers, masks, curves and plugins; opens PSD files with basic layer support. | Open source | Windows, macOS, Linux | Advanced photo editing and retouching | Get it |
PhotopeaAd-supported. Opens and saves PSD files and mirrors the Photoshop layout. | Free | Web | Photoshop-style editing in the browser | Get it |
KritaExcellent brush engine; also reads PSD files. | Open source | Windows, macOS, Linux | Digital painting and illustration | Get it |
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The alternatives in detail
Open source
02/ Photopea
Best for: Photoshop-style editing in the browser.
Ad-supported. Opens and saves PSD files and mirrors the Photoshop layout.
Runs on: Web
Visit Photopea03/ Krita
Best for: Digital painting and illustration.
Excellent brush engine; also reads PSD files.
Runs on: Windows, macOS, Linux
Visit Krita04/ Affinity (by Canva)
Best for: Professional photo, vector and layout work in one app.
Check the current terms on the Affinity site.
Runs on: Windows, macOS
Visit Affinity (by Canva)Frequently asked questions
Is there a free alternative to Adobe Photoshop?
Yes. GIMP is a strong free option for advanced photo editing and retouching. Other choices include Photopea, Krita, Affinity (by Canva).
Which Adobe Photoshop alternative is open source?
GIMP, Krita are open source.