5 Best Free Photoshop Alternatives in 2020

Adobe Photoshop has been around for nearly two decades now. It is practically the best tool to edit and enhance images. And also has become a household name. However, it comes at a cost. The cracked versions are not worth a try. Too much malware. In this post, I have shared a few free alternatives to Adobe Photoshop.

Also, read A Simple Guide to Learn About Adobe Photoshop

Here Are the 5 Best Free Photoshop Alternatives in 2020

1) Microsoft Photos

If all you are looking for is a basic photo editor enabled with all commonly used features, Microsoft’s default photo editing software can do the job for you. Although, your operating system may or may not have it installed. 

You can install this software for free. No need to provide personal details. This app is getting popularity as a result of it’s a clear and concise user interface. You won’t feel like you are using a complicated photo editor.

Pros:

• Touch-friendly user interface.
• Don’t need to download from a third-party website.
• Decent features.

Cons:

• Limited features compared to Photoshop.
• Not suitable for professional photographers.

2) Raw Therapee

Raw Therapee is free of cost, cross-platform raw image processing program for users who are savvy enough to understand the photo editing process. The software supports almost all digital cameras. It is primarily used for developing raw files.

Pros:

• You can use two demosaicing algorithms on a single image.
• Boost the quality of an image.
• Free of cost. No pro version.

Cons:

• It can slow your PC down.
• Not meant for absolute beginners.

3) GIMP

GNU Image Manipulation Program (GIMP) is one of the most popular open-source image editing software. For professionals who seek to learn image processing from scratch, this where you can start. 

You can transform a basic image into something valuable, unique and noteworthy. Furthermore, Gimp also allows you to manipulates images using code. Programming languages like C, C++, Perl, Python, and Scheme are completely supported by this photo editor. 

Pros:

• One of the most feature-rich image processing tools on the planet.
• Supports programming languages.
• Well-maintained and bug-free.

Cons:

• Need more buttons.

4) Inkscape

Inkscape is a high-end open-source vector graphics tool for advanced users. This software is quite versatile, hence can be used by a variety of professionals. The best part is that it is free and open-source. 

Pros:

• Freedom to express your inner creativity.
• Handy text tool.

Cons:

• Processing is slower than Photoshop.

5) Pixlr

Unlike other image editors in this list, Pixlr is a fash-based online application. To access this software, all you need is an internet browser. Pixlr is totally free of cost and there is a paid version available for advanced users. 

The best thing about Pixlr is that it a free application that can also be used for commercial purposes. Whether you are a freelancer or a business owner, you can add this application to your toolbox. It is also quite easy to use.

Pros:

• Ideal for beginners. 
• Enhance images with a single click of the mouse.

Cons:

• Limited features compared to Photoshop.
• No offline version is available.

Summary

If you still wish to go for Abobe Photoshop, I would recommend you to go for the Adobe Photoshop Elements version. It is cheaper and more suited for entry-level photo editors. The free ones listed in this post are good as well, but only for short term usage.