Not all photo editing software is built for every user, so we take into account what each photo editor’s objective is and for whom each option is best suited when compiling our recommendations.Part 1: When Would You Need to Edit PDFs for Free? Part 2: TOP Free PDF Editor for Windows Part 3: TOP Free PDF Editor Online Part 4: Online PDF Editor VS PDF Editor Offline Part 5: Which Type of Free PDF Editor is Best for You? Part 1: When Would You Need to Edit PDFs for Free?Īs the world becomes more digitally transformed, it's inevitable that you will come across PDF documents in the course of a normal day - invoices, contracts, eBooks, bank statements, credit card statements, tax forms, insurance forms… these are just some of the examples of the widespread use of PDF. When testing photo editing software, we look at a number of different criteria, including: However, several photo editors are either entirely browser based or offer a browser-based option, which can be accessed from any web browser.
When it comes to downloadable software, there are more options for Windows users than there are for Mac users. Lastly, you want to make sure whatever photo editing software you choose is compatible with your devices. An experienced graphic designer may be completely comfortable starting from scratch, but someone who is inexperienced may benefit from software that comes with templates or tutorials to help them get started. It’s also important to consider your personal experience level. What your end needs are will determine what tools to look for in your photo editing software. When choosing free photo editing software, you’ll want to think about both your needs and your skill level.Ī photographer who wants to make basic edits to photos is going to have different needs than a small business owner who wants to design a logo, even though both tasks can be accomplished with a free photo editor.
How to choose the best free photo editing software for you The biggest downside to is that it is currently only available for Windows, so Mac users will have to consider alternatives. If you only need to make a few simple edits, is a much more straightforward option. While isn’t as powerful as rival GIMP, depending on what you plan to use it for, that could be considered a strength. There’s even support for layers, which can be rare with free photo editors, and the community has developed quite a few plugins and tutorials to make the program even more useful. Originally intended as a replacement for Microsoft Paint, retains its namesake’s simple, intuitive interface while adding several advanced photo editing features.
While there is a paid Pro version of Canva that unlocks a few additional features (like the ability to isolate and delete a background), the free option is more than sufficient for beginners looking for an easy way to lift their marketing content. And the numerous templates available to use, covering everything from social media posts to letterhead to brochures, are surprisingly high quality for a free website. However, it does offer a surprising amount of built-in filters and photo effects. So if you’re looking to remove a lot of blemishes or make other significant edits, Canva perhaps isn’t the right option for you.
It’s worth noting that it’s not a full photo editor.
If you want to up your brand’s Facebook or Instagram game but don’t have lots of time or money, Canva provides hundreds of gorgeous and easy-to-customize templates.
Without this centralized hub, it can be a little harder to find the exact plugin you need.Īll in all, these limitations are pretty minor, and GIMP is still hands-down the best free photo editing software you can get today.Ĭanva is a browser-based photo editor geared towards generating polished and eye-catching social media posts and other marketing materials. However, this became too unwieldy for volunteers to maintain. Several years ago, users were able to download plugins, brushes, and other add-ons from a page on GIMP’s website. The other downside to GIMP is the closure of its registry. If you enjoy tinkering around with new software this isn’t a problem, but users who aren’t familiar with photo editors, or just want to make a few quick edits, should consider other options.
Firstly, the cluttered interface means it can be a steep learning curve for newcomers. In our book, there are only two downsides to GIMP. It’s an open-source platform, which means that GIMP is always being improved, and there are a vast array of plugins you can use to customize your experience. GIMP is our number one pick for the best free photo editor, and it’s the only entry on this list that’s a legitimate contender among paid options like Adobe Photoshop Elements or Corel PaintShop Pro.