Photoshop had hold its place has the go-to software for graphic designers to an extend that Photoshop today is used as a verb to describing any photo editing. Today you have access to other free (or cheaper) alternatives offering most or all the capabilities available on Photoshop. Personally, I still prefer Photoshop over any other software bu if you find Photoshop to be too expensive or bulky, here are some alternatives for windows users:
1. GIMP
GIMP (short for GNU Image Manipulation Program) is an open source, cross-platform graphic editor software. GIMP is free for life and supports multiple image formats with several good quality manipulating tools for retouching, restoring, Selection editing, HDR, image sharpening, color correction and many other functionalities that you can find in Photoshop.
2. Inkscape
Inkscape is another free, open source and cross-platform powerful designing alternative for designers who like to create and manipulate image vectors. with its flexible drawing and text support tools coupled with an extensive file format compatibility, Inkscape is perfect for creating logos, charts, infographics and other vector based designs.
3. Paint.NET
Paint is more robust and powerful version of the widely known Windows Paint tool. All though Paint.NET is not that feature rich and powerful when it comes to complex graphics and photo editing, it performs most of the basic functions and editing features like Selection editing, Color correction, Layers, Retouching, Histogram, Resizing, Sharpening, Noise removal, etc. and won’t cause lagging of your processor if you’re editing on a less powerful computer. The good thing is you can extend its features and capabilities using available plugins online.
4. Photoshop Express
I know its still Photoshop but its FREE. You, you heard me right. Photoshop Express is a lite version of Photoshop with less fewer capabilities, so if you need to just do some quick easy photo editing like Fix photos fast—crop, straighten, rotate, flip, adjust color, and remove red eye and pet eye, Adjust hue, brightness, white balance, and more with easy slider controls, Enhance in fun artistic ways with Looks like Vibrant, Superpunch, and Glow or Add a finishing touch with borders and frames, Photoshop Express is for you. Photoshop can be used on your browser or downloaded to your phone and tablet.
5. Pixlr
Pixlr is unique. Unlike all the above mentioned alternatives, Pixlr is used from your browser, no installation required and is also available as an app, Pixlr Express, for phones and tablets. You just need internet connected and a screen big enough for your editing needs. Pixlr contains all the editing features like Layers, Re-sizing, Selection tools, Filters and Effects, Text overlays, Red-eye removal, teeth whitener etc. With its huge library of effects, borders and overlays, Pixlr is the best Photoshop alternative for editing for those who love having everything tabbed.
What is your favorite FREE Photoshop Alternative for WIndows? Share with us below and we will add it to the list above.
