Start with the job, then compare licensing, maturity, and file handoff. “Free,” “open source,” and “a Photoshop replacement” describe different things.
GIMP describes itself as a cross-platform image editor. It is a starting point for photo manipulation and general image editing when an open-source workflow matters. Expect a different interface and test layered exchange rather than assuming Photoshop equivalence.
Krita is a free and open-source painting program. It is a strong category fit for brush-led artwork and illustration; its painting focus does not make it a universal replacement for photo-retouching or Adobe production workflows.
A Rust-based layered image editor with documented PSD / PSB read and write. Evaluate it on copies, with a narrow task and a fallback editor. Early-alpha maturity is part of the decision.
Photopea describes itself as a free online photo editor with layers, masks, and PSD support. It runs in the browser, with local processing described in its learning documentation. We do not classify it as open source, promise complete Photoshop compatibility, or infer that every connected feature is offline.
Check the current service terms and privacy information before processing sensitive files. Sources: Photopea ↗ · Photopea learning documentation ↗.
Acorn is a paid Mac image editor with a 14-day trial and no subscription. Its official site lists macOS 14 or later. Check current requirements and trial terms before purchase; we have not run a hands-on comparison.
Source: Official Acorn product page ↗.
Adobe Photoshop remains the comparison baseline here rather than an alternative to itself. It is available by paid subscription. If you need its specific features, extensions, or handoff compatibility, the cost of keeping a validated workflow may outweigh switching. See Adobe’s product overview ↗ and our PhotoCraft comparison.
Pick a representative task, duplicate your files, and verify both editing and the final handoff. None of these selections comes with a hands-on performance score or a promise of complete Photoshop compatibility.
Find official download channels →PhotoCraft guide · ArtCraft apps · Photoshop comparison · Downloads