Best Adobe Photoshop Alternatives in 2026

Industry-standard raster graphics editor for photo editing, compositing, digital painting, and graphic design. Professional-grade tools for image manipulation, retouching, and creative design work.

Adobe Photoshop is a paid tool with subscription pricing in the Design and Photo & Image Editing categories. Below you'll find 5 curated alternatives, each with a breakdown of what makes it different and who it's best for. Whether you're looking for a free option, better features, or a different approach, this guide helps you compare your choices.

5 Alternatives to Adobe Photoshop

#1

GIMP

free

Free open-source image editor

Completely free with extensive features for photo editing. Cross-platform, large plugin ecosystem. Best free alternative.

#2

Canva

freemium

Template-based graphic design

Easier to learn with thousands of templates. Better for marketing materials, social media graphics, and non-designers.

#3

iPad digital painting powerhouse

One-time purchase for iPad. Best for illustration, digital painting, and hand-drawn artwork. More natural drawing experience.

#4

Figma

freemium

Browser-based design collaboration

Real-time collaboration, vector-first design. Better for UI/UX design and team design systems.

#5

Photo-focused editing workflow

Non-destructive photo editing with presets. Better for photographers managing large photo libraries.

Quick Comparison: Adobe Photoshop vs Alternatives

ToolPricingBest For
Adobe PhotoshoppaidCurrent tool
GIMPfreeFree open-source image editor
CanvafreemiumTemplate-based graphic design
ProcreatepaidiPad digital painting powerhouse
FigmafreemiumBrowser-based design collaboration
Adobe LightroompaidPhoto-focused editing workflow

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