Photoshop is a pretty popular photo editor widely used around the globe. It offers a lot of fascinating features for its users without any premium charges, but alas- it’s not cheap. So the question arises- are there any cheap alternatives to Photoshop that are actually decent?
When we talk about free Photoshop alternatives, the application that stands out from the rest is GIMP. But how can GIMP be the best alternative to Photoshop?
We'll answer this question for you in this article, and introduce some other free alternatives to Photoshop.
GIMP is a fantastic Photoshop alternative ideal for those who can't spend money on a premium-based editor. Despite being free, it offers some mind-blowing advanced features for its users. GIMP's advanced features definitely resemble some Photoshop features.
GIMP is a multidimensional photo editor that can be used as a photo retouching program, an image format converter, and an online batch system. Above all aspects, GIMP is available for Windows, Mac, and Linux, making this tool nothing less than excellent.
Like Photoshop, GIMP also recognizes popular file formats like PNG, GIF, JPEG, and TIFF. You'd probably get these kinds of features in a paid editor, but GIMP has been fantastic in providing satisfactory services to users. In addition, it also supports PSD format, although not all layers may be readable.
The best way to see if an image editor is a right fit for you is to actually test it out. We have a library of free photos for you to download and alternate! The best part? You don't need to sign up to start downloading.
Still not convinced that GIMP is the best affordable alternative editing app to Photoshop? You may find a better fit after reading our article, 12 Best affordable (and free) Photoshop alternatives. Here are three other affordable Photoshop alternatives besides GIMP.
PhotoWorks is a terrific photo editor possessing the right balance between impressive and user-friendliness functionality.
It is a perfect editor for both newbies and pros, offering an array of sensational photo editing features. PhotoWorks supports over 450 Raw Formats, making it one of the best Photoshop alternatives.
Like Photoshop, this photo editor also provides its user with non-destructive editing, meaning you can undo changes after editing the photos.
You can apply some breathtaking effects with one click, or take matters into your own hands with manual adjustment tools.
Colorcinch possesses a pretty intuitive interface and has been the appropriate alternative to Photoshop for quite a long time now.
It offers a fascinating collection of graphics, presets, and some other creative assets. One of the biggest pluses you get with this tool is that it features plentiful AI-powered specialty effects.
One of its most noticeable effects is the Cartoonizer that can convert your photos into sketches, paintings, and cartoons.
Since it is an online website, you need to download or install it on your device to use it. Colorcinch is compatible with Linux, Windows PC, and Mac.
There are also some breathtaking masks and artistic borders to pick from. Importantly, you can also export your photos in formats like PDF, JPG, and PNG.
Krita can be an ideal Photoshop alternative for those looking for a photo editor and offers some advanced features for free. It can make your photo look stunning by adding remarkable effects and filters.
You can use a pop color palette to add flavor to your video. Krita is one of those editors that doesn't complicate simple tasks. Instead, it's intuitive and will do most of the work for you with minimal effort.
Final Thoughts
Both Photoshop and GIMP have a lot of similarities. They both use vector methods for elements and general layout such as text.
Like Photoshop, GIMP also possesses the ability to cope with raster images, down to the pixel. In addition, GIMP also offers a non-destructive editing feature, meaning you can turn your pictures to their original state if you don't like the editing.
Besides GIMP, some other valuable affordable alternatives to Photoshop are available, like PhotoWorks, Colorcinch, and Krita. But GIMP is the best free alternative up till now due to its remarkable popularity and fascinating features.
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Furthermore, put any of these recommended photo editors to the test with our library of free stock photos.