Even in 2020, Adobe Photoshop is still the industry standard for graphics and image editing. While the world’s most potent image software is perfect for just about every situation where image processing is required, roadblocks such as cost and expertise can put a screeching halt to planned projects. Other times, it can be gross overkill. Fortunately, in the year 2020, there are many alternatives to Adobe’s juggernaut. While there is no doubt that Photoshop is king, other options exist and are available that could work better for smaller jobs or more specific tasks, and a few are even free to use on the web. Here is a list of 10 great alternatives to Photoshop.
The 10 Best Alternatives to Photoshop
1. GIMP- https://www.gimp.org/
Regarded by many to be the standout, one of the best alternatives to Photoshop, GIMP has stood the test of time, with plenty of improvements along the way. Still open-sourced since its release, GIMP features digital editing, layer management, graphic effect filters, and much more, and the best part is the price, it’s always free.
2. Inkscape- https://inkscape.org/
A great simple solution when a vector is your answer, Inkscape features many of the same editing tools as Photoshop, but with a bit of Illustrator thrown in for good measure. Great for layouts and logo design, Inkscape is also available on Steam.
3. Krita- https://krita.org/en/
Krita is another open-sourced alternative that is geared more towards graphic artists. A powerful program that supports .psd files, tablet interfaces, vectors, and most of the same tools as Photoshop, Krita even supports 2D animation.
4. LightZone- https://lightzoneproject.org/
LightZone an easy to use photo editor, perfect for those simple jobs. When Photoshop is overkill, and you need a few simple corrections, Lightzone is your answer. It is also available for Win, Mac, and Linux.
5. Darktable- https://www.darktable.org/
Another good program for beginners as an alternative to Lightroom is Darktable. Nearly identical-looking to Lightroom, the simple interface allows instant correct colors, adjust brightness and contrast, and a host of other filters. Darktable is also available to download for Linux OS.
6. Raw Therapee- https://rawtherapee.com/
Raw Therapee is quite possibly the most straightforward program to use on this list. With hundreds of options available, its modular system works well with slower machines, allowing users to download the features they need.
7. Pixlr- https://pixlr.com/
If downloading and installing a graphics program won’t work, Pixlr is always available for free online. With a layout similar to photoshop, it is simple to operate, and even has a mobile version.
8. Photopea- https://www.photopea.com/
Another web-based graphics program, Photopea, supports most image file types and supports layer functions like Photoshop. Able to manage both vector and raster images, it is easy to use, and it’s free.
9. Sumopaint- https://www.sumopaint.com/home/
When you need more than just “online,” Sumopaint is a web-based editor that does way more than any other. It supports offline features that enable you to continue working on your projects and is available for Chromebook as well as online.
10. Apple Photos / Microsoft Windows 10 Photos
If you are running an Apple OS or Windows 10, you need to look no further than your program list. Yes, that’s right; both Windows 10 and Mac OS have pretty decent photo editors built right in. Both support multiple file formats and fundamental editing tools.
