I’ve Tried a Dozen Photoshop Alternatives .I Keep Returning to This Free Tool
If you’ve googled for a Photoshop alternative, you know the pain. There are some other options, though finding one that really rivals Photoshop’s power, flexibility, and user-friendliness can be tricky. Over the years, I’ve tried everything from premium software to open-source tools, and while some were close, none could take the place of Photoshop except one.
After many experiments I always return to photopea.
Why Photopea Stands Out
Photopea is a fully free, browser-based photo editor that looks and works pretty much exactly like Photoshop. No downloads required, and it easily opens PSD, AI, XD, Sketch, and other familiar formats.
Here’s why it has become my favorite:
No Installation Needed
One of the most appealing things about Photopea is that it runs completely in your web browser. Whether I’m executing commands on a powerhouse desktop or budget laptop, I have access to my projects right away without install anything.
Photoshop-Like Interface
If you’ve used Photoshop, you’ll be in familiar territory. The enclosures, equipment, and shortcuts are very, very similar so there’s next to no learning curve.
Works with PSD Files
Photopea can open, edit, and save Photoshop (PSD) files without breaking layers or effects, which you can’t do with most free alternatives. This alone makes it an absolute must for anyone working with Photoshop users.
Surprisingly Powerful
Photopea has everything I need for photo editing and design work, from advanced selections and layer masks to smart objects and blending modes.
Free (With a Very Small Ad Banner)
Photopea is free to use aside from the advertisement banner on the side. You can upgrade to get an ad-free experience for a handful of dollars each month but really, the ads are few and far between and don’t get in the way of your work.
The Downsides
Indeed, no tool is without fault. Because Photopea runs in a browser, it’s a little less responsive than a native app especially when handling large files. And it misses some of the higher-end features of Photoshop, such as A.I.-powered tools. But for everyday photo editing and graphic design, those limitations are negligible.
Final Verdict
I’ve tried Affinity Photo, GIMP, Krita, etc., but I keep returning to Photopea. It’s quick, easy and very convenient. Give it a go if you need a Photoshop alternative without the multimillion dollar price tag; you might be surprised how much it’s capable of.