# Top 10 Photoshop Alternatives & Competitors

(13,406)4.6 out of 5

Based on G2 reviews, Adobe Photoshop is often evaluated alongside top-rated alternatives that vary by use case, pricing, and features. Photo Editing Software is used by teams seeking productive, simple platforms with features like ai text-to-image and ai text-to-3d, according to G2 reviews. In most cases, users compare alternatives based on reliability and ease of use.   
 The best overall alternative to Adobe Photoshop is [Canva](https://www.g2.com/products/canva/reviews), rated ~4.7 stars on G2 from 6476+ reviewers. It is frequently praised for templates and easy creation. Other well-known alternatives to Adobe Photoshop are: 
- [GIMP](https://www.g2.com/products/gimp/reviews) – known for free services and photo editing (G2 star rating ~4.3)
- [Pixlr](https://www.g2.com/products/pixlr/reviews) – highly rated for efficiency and background removal (G2 star rating ~4.4)
- [PicMonkey](https://www.g2.com/products/picmonkey/reviews) – offers photo editing and simple (G2 star rating ~4.4)
- [Fotor Photo Editor](https://www.g2.com/products/fotor-photo-editor/reviews) – best suited for teams that need photo editing and artificial intelligence (G2 star rating ~4.2)

 Browse top options below. Based on G2 review data, Adobe Photoshop is most commonly used in industries like [Photo Editing Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/photo-editing), [Content Creation Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/content-creation). Compare user ratings by vertical to find the best fit.

## Best Paid & Free Alternatives to Adobe Photoshop

- Canva
- GIMP
- Pixlr
- PicMonkey
- Fotor Photo Editor
- ACDSee
- PhotoWorks
- Capture One Pro

## Top 10 Alternatives to Adobe Photoshop Recently Reviewed By G2 Community

Browse options below. Based on reviewer data, you can see how Adobe Photoshop stacks up to the competition, check reviews from current & previous users in industries like Design, Information Technology and Services, and Higher Education, and find the best product for your business.

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[
 ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/77d7429c23569c5165fdc429d10c2644/canva.png "Product Avatar Image")
](https://www.g2.com/products/canva/reviews)

[
Canva
](https://www.g2.com/products/canva/reviews)

By [Canva](https://www.g2.com/sellers/canva)

[

4.7/5(7,649)

](https://www.g2.com/products/canva/reviews#reviews)

Product Description

Canva is an online design and publishing platform that provides user friendly design tools for non-designers.

Reviewers say compared to Adobe Photoshop, Canva is:

More usable

Easier to set up

Easier to admin

Categories in common with Photoshop:

[
Photo Editing
](/categories/photo-editing)

[
 ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/c1ef7dba448cecec96775ad06eb16ca8/gimp.png "Product Avatar Image")
](https://www.g2.com/products/gimp/reviews)

[
GIMP
](https://www.g2.com/products/gimp/reviews)

By [GIMP](https://www.g2.com/sellers/gimp)

[

4.3/5(1,485)

](https://www.g2.com/products/gimp/reviews#reviews)

Product Description

GIMP is a cross-platform image editor available for GNU/Linux, macOS, Windows and more operating systems. It is free software, you can change its source code and distribute your changes.

Reviewers say compared to Adobe Photoshop, GIMP is:

Easier to set up

Categories in common with Photoshop:

[
Photo Editing
](/categories/photo-editing)

[
 ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/ffe46f2ca4b34fd92c06d6ec0ee8e036/pixlr.jpg "Product Avatar Image")
](https://www.g2.com/products/pixlr/reviews)

[
Pixlr
](https://www.g2.com/products/pixlr/reviews)

By [Pixlr](https://www.g2.com/sellers/pixlr)

[

4.4/5(750)

](https://www.g2.com/products/pixlr/reviews#reviews)

Product Description

3D design, engineering, and entertainment software and services.

Reviewers say compared to Adobe Photoshop, Pixlr is:

More usable

Easier to set up

Easier to admin

Categories in common with Photoshop:

[
Photo Editing
](/categories/photo-editing)

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[
 ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/21e5e49d21bcfdd25154785946650795/picmonkey.png "Product Avatar Image")
](https://www.g2.com/products/picmonkey/reviews)

[
PicMonkey
](https://www.g2.com/products/picmonkey/reviews)

By [Shutterstock](https://www.g2.com/sellers/shutterstock)

[

4.4/5(422)

](https://www.g2.com/products/picmonkey/reviews#reviews)

Product Description

PicMonkey is a photo editing solution that provides creative tools for photo editing and graphic design.

Reviewers say compared to Adobe Photoshop, PicMonkey is:

More usable

Easier to admin

Easier to set up

Categories in common with Photoshop:

[
Photo Editing
](/categories/photo-editing)

[
 ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/9b8e0c47b77b06468e926198300630df/fotor-photo-editor.png "Product Avatar Image")
](https://www.g2.com/products/fotor-photo-editor/reviews)

[
Fotor Photo Editor
](https://www.g2.com/products/fotor-photo-editor/reviews)

By [Chengdu Everimaging Co., Ltd.](https://www.g2.com/sellers/chengdu-everimaging-co-ltd)

[

4.2/5(342)

](https://www.g2.com/products/fotor-photo-editor/reviews#reviews)

Product Description

Fotor is an all-in-one photo editing platform that combines editing, design and AI image generation features. In addition to the online platform, Fotor covers all other platforms such as Windows, Mac, iOS and Android.

Reviewers say compared to Adobe Photoshop, Fotor Photo Editor is:

Slower to reach roi

More usable

Categories in common with Photoshop:

[
Photo Editing
](/categories/photo-editing)

[
 ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/3276204a5745505903922e91550172bb/acdsee.jpeg "Product Avatar Image")
](https://www.g2.com/products/acdsee/reviews)

[
ACDSee
](https://www.g2.com/products/acdsee/reviews)

By [ACD Systems](https://www.g2.com/sellers/acd-systems)

[

4.4/5(282)

](https://www.g2.com/products/acdsee/reviews#reviews)

Product Description

ACDSee is recognized the world over as a leader in image editing, management and technical illustration software.

Reviewers say compared to Adobe Photoshop, ACDSee is:

Slower to reach roi

More usable

Easier to set up

Categories in common with Photoshop:

[
Photo Editing
](/categories/photo-editing)

[
 ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/8667bb510bacd3d35fb2953d1d5bbb92/photoworks.png "Product Avatar Image")
](https://www.g2.com/products/photoworks/reviews)

[
PhotoWorks
](https://www.g2.com/products/photoworks/reviews)

By [AMS Software](https://www.g2.com/sellers/ams-software-05cea543-4360-498c-bc2c-2545656d0d78)

[

4.3/5(99)

](https://www.g2.com/products/photoworks/reviews#reviews)

Product Description

Photoworks is intelligent image editing software. Use retouching tools and 150+ photo effects, create striking landscapes in a few clicks. Give your images a polished look in mere seconds.

Reviewers say compared to Adobe Photoshop, PhotoWorks is:

More usable

Easier to set up

Better at support

Categories in common with Photoshop:

[
Photo Editing
](/categories/photo-editing)

[
 ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/9cb1c749e44288583e9f7c350133e7a7/capture-one-pro.jpg "Product Avatar Image")
](https://www.g2.com/products/capture-one-pro/reviews)

[
Capture One Pro
](https://www.g2.com/products/capture-one-pro/reviews)

By [Phase One](https://www.g2.com/sellers/phase-one)

[

4.5/5(79)

](https://www.g2.com/products/capture-one-pro/reviews#reviews)

Product Description

Capture One Pro is a professional-grade photo editing software renowned for its exceptional RAW image processing capabilities and precise color accuracy. Designed to meet the demands of professional photographers, it offers a comprehensive suite of tools for image editing, tethered shooting, and workflow management, ensuring high-quality results and efficient operations. Key Features and Functionality: - Advanced RAW Processing: Delivers realistic, true-to-life colors from the start, supporting a wide range of camera profiles. - Layer-Based Editing: Enables non-destructive, localized adjustments with multiple layers and customizable masks for precise control. - Tethered Shooting: Provides robust tethering capabilities for instant image capture and review, supporting numerous camera models. - Customizable Interface: Features a highly customizable user interface, allowing users to tailor the workspace to their specific workflow needs. - Advanced Color Editing: Offers precise color grading tools, including a color balance tool, advanced color editor, and skin tone adjustments. - High Dynamic Range (HDR) Tools: Includes tools for merging multiple exposures to create HDR images with enhanced detail and dynamic range. - Lens Correction: Automatically corrects lens distortion, chromatic aberration, and vignetting based on lens profiles. - Noise Reduction: Employs advanced algorithms for reducing noise while preserving image detail, particularly useful for high ISO images. Primary Value and User Solutions: Capture One Pro addresses the critical needs of professional photographers by offering superior image quality and efficient workflow management. Its advanced RAW processing ensures that images retain the highest fidelity in detail and color accuracy. The layer-based editing system allows for precise, non-destructive adjustments, enabling photographers to achieve their creative vision without compromising the original image data. Tethered shooting capabilities streamline studio workflows, providing real-time feedback and control during shoots. Additionally, the customizable interface and robust asset management tools enhance productivity, allowing users to tailor the software to their specific needs and manage large volumes of images effectively. By integrating these features, Capture One Pro empowers photographers to produce exceptional images while optimizing their workflow efficiency.

Reviewers say compared to Adobe Photoshop, Capture One Pro is:

Easier to set up

Categories in common with Photoshop:

[
Photo Editing
](/categories/photo-editing)

[
 ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/db48ca9f39ae80d4dc6ef655a207f7f5/photodirector.png "Product Avatar Image")
](https://www.g2.com/products/photodirector/reviews)

[
PhotoDirector
](https://www.g2.com/products/photodirector/reviews)

By [CyberLink](https://www.g2.com/sellers/cyberlink)

[

4.3/5(51)

](https://www.g2.com/products/photodirector/reviews#reviews)

Product Description

CyberLink’s PhotoDirector is an all-encompassing photo editing software that harnesses the power of AI to make editing easier for users of all skill levels. With cutting-edge AI tools, you can transform ordinary shots into concept art, professional profile images, and sleek product photos almost instantaneously. The software offers one-click photo enhancements to improve image quality, remove distractions, and alter backgrounds seamlessly. This software sets a new standard for photo retouching with the flexibility to conduct detailed and customizable portrait enhancements. Effortlessly erase unwanted objects or people from your photos and utilize layer editing to craft complex designs for various media. CyberLink PhotoDirector positions itself as your creative partner, turning imagination into reality with generative AI, ensuring that every design is not just great, but truly extraordinary.

Reviewers say compared to Adobe Photoshop, PhotoDirector is:

More usable

Easier to set up

Better at support

Categories in common with Photoshop:

[
Photo Editing
](/categories/photo-editing)

[
 ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/18f1fd11b8c180bb3cd0000ab786f77f/corel-aftershot-pro.png "Product Avatar Image")
](https://www.g2.com/products/corel-aftershot-pro/reviews)

[
Corel AfterShot Pro
](https://www.g2.com/products/corel-aftershot-pro/reviews)

By [Corel Corporation](https://www.g2.com/sellers/corel-corporation-10b41cd4-0594-4f58-8f0a-212c911385c6)

[

4.1/5(50)

](https://www.g2.com/products/corel-aftershot-pro/reviews#reviews)

Product Description

Corel AfterShot Pro is a powerful, non-destructive photo editing software designed for photographers seeking efficient RAW image processing and comprehensive photo management. It offers a streamlined workflow that enables users to import, process, and output images rapidly, allowing more time behind the camera and less in front of the computer. Key Features and Functionality: - Advanced Non-Destructive Editing: Make adjustments to photos without altering the original files, ensuring image integrity. - Flexible Photo Management: Organize and view all photos in one place with customizable file management options, eliminating the need for importing. - Ultra-Fast Workflow: Experience significantly faster loading, selecting, editing, and output, with performance up to four times faster than leading competitors. - Powerful Batch Processing: Edit and perfect multiple photos simultaneously using robust batch processing controls and presets. - Comprehensive Watermarking: Protect images with customizable watermarks to maintain ownership and brand identity. - Enhanced Highlight Recovery: Recover more detail in overexposed areas, ensuring balanced and natural-looking photos. - Blemish Remover Tools: Easily remove imperfections from photos to achieve flawless results. - Image Preset Library: Access a variety of presets to apply quick adjustments and creative effects to images. Primary Value and Solutions Provided: Corel AfterShot Pro addresses the need for a fast, efficient, and affordable photo editing solution that doesn't compromise on quality. By offering a non-destructive editing environment, it ensures that original images remain untouched, providing peace of mind to photographers. The software's advanced features, such as comprehensive watermarking and enhanced highlight recovery, cater to both professional and amateur photographers aiming to produce high-quality images. Its ultra-fast workflow and powerful batch processing capabilities significantly reduce editing time, allowing users to focus more on capturing moments rather than being bogged down by post-processing tasks.

Reviewers say compared to Adobe Photoshop, Corel AfterShot Pro is:

Easier to set up

Easier to admin

More usable

Categories in common with Photoshop:

[
Photo Editing
](/categories/photo-editing)

## Adobe Photoshop Alternatives FAQs

Generated using AI

### How does Photoshop compare to Canva?

According to G2 data, [Adobe Photoshop](https://www.g2.com/products/adobe-photoshop/reviews) holds a 4.6-star average rating from 13,368 reviews, while [Canva](https://www.g2.com/products/canva/reviews) has a slightly higher average rating of 4.7 stars from 7,518 reviews. Photoshop excels in meeting requirements with a score of 9.4 versus Canva's 9.2, but Canva leads significantly in usability (9.4 vs 7.8), ease of setup (9.6 vs 8.5), ease of administration (9.4 vs 8.5), better support (8.9 vs 8.3), and ease of doing business with (9.4 vs 8.7), showing a 1.6-point advantage in usability and a 0.9-point lead in ease of setup. Photoshop is praised for its powerful, professional-grade editing tools, including advanced layer management, AI-powered features like Generative Fill, and seamless integration with other Adobe Creative Cloud apps, which enhance workflow and creative control. Users highlight its versatility for detailed photo editing, graphic design, and digital art, with 122 mentions of ease of use and 98 mentions of features. However, it has a steep learning curve, is resource-intensive, and has a subscription pricing model that many find expensive. Canva is favored for its accessibility, ease of use, and extensive template library, making it ideal for beginners and non-designers. It boasts 1,742 mentions of ease of use and 1,264 mentions of templates, with a user-friendly drag-and-drop interface and AI-powered tools that speed up content creation. Canva's cloud-based platform supports collaboration and works well across devices. Its limitations include fewer advanced features, some performance issues on large projects, and many premium features locked behind a subscription. Overall, Canva offers a more approachable and cost-effective solution, while Photoshop delivers unmatched professional capabilities and creative flexibility.

### What are the best alternatives to Photoshop?

The best alternatives to Photoshop according to G2 user reviews and ratings include [Canva](https://www.g2.com/products/canva/reviews) (4.7/5 with 7,518 reviews), [Affinity Photo](https://www.g2.com/products/affinity-photo/reviews) (4.5/5 with 234 reviews), [Capture One](https://www.g2.com/products/capture-one-pro/reviews) (4.5/5 with 78 reviews), [Pixlr](https://www.g2.com/products/pixlr/reviews) (4.4/5 with 748 reviews), and [PicMonkey](https://www.g2.com/products/picmonkey/reviews) (4.4/5 with 421 reviews). These alternatives offer a range of user-friendly interfaces, AI-powered tools, and pricing models including one-time purchases and free tiers, making them strong contenders depending on user needs.

### Which Photo Editing tools do reviewers recommend instead of Photoshop?

Reviewers recommend [Canva](https://www.g2.com/products/canva/reviews) for its ease of use, extensive template library, and AI-powered features that simplify design tasks for beginners and professionals alike. [Affinity Photo](https://www.g2.com/products/affinity-photo/reviews) is praised for its professional-grade editing capabilities, one-time purchase pricing, and smooth performance, making it ideal for users seeking a powerful Photoshop alternative without subscription fees. [Capture One](https://www.g2.com/products/capture-one-pro/reviews) is favored by professional photographers for its advanced RAW processing, precise color grading, and tethered shooting capabilities. [Pixlr](https://www.g2.com/products/pixlr/reviews) is recommended for quick, browser-based editing with AI tools like background removal, suitable for users needing fast and accessible photo edits. [PicMonkey](https://www.g2.com/products/picmonkey/reviews) is highlighted for its user-friendly interface, robust photo editing and design tools, and helpful templates, making it a good choice for social media content creation and marketing visuals. These recommendations reflect user preferences for usability, feature sets, and cost-effectiveness compared to Photoshop's subscription model and learning curve.

### Why do users choose Canva over Photoshop?

Users choose [Canva](https://www.g2.com/products/canva/reviews) over [Adobe Photoshop](https://www.g2.com/products/adobe-photoshop/reviews) primarily for its superior ease of use and accessibility. Canva leads Photoshop by 1.6 points in usability (9.4 vs 7.8) and 1.1 points in ease of setup (9.6 vs 8.5), making it highly attractive for beginners and those without advanced design skills. With 1,742 mentions of ease of use and 1,264 mentions of templates, Canva’s extensive library of ready-made templates and intuitive drag-and-drop interface enable users to create professional-looking designs quickly and with minimal learning curve. Additionally, Canva offers better ease of administration (9.4 vs 8.5) and better support (8.9 vs 8.3), which contributes to a smoother user experience, especially for teams and collaborative projects. Its cloud-based platform allows seamless access across devices without heavy system requirements, contrasting with Photoshop’s resource-intensive nature. While Canva’s advanced design capabilities are more limited compared to Photoshop, its cost-effectiveness, lower learning barrier, and fast content creation workflows make it the preferred choice for individuals, small businesses, educators, and marketers who prioritize speed, simplicity, and affordability over deep professional-grade editing features. This is supported by 1,145 mentions of features and 1,062 mentions of easy creation in Canva reviews, reflecting its strong value proposition for everyday design needs.

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