Many professional photographers say that no editing software can ever fill in for Lightroom. Lightroom is a well-known universal program for editing that has a 7-day free trial. The cloud allows you to save, store, and share any of the edited photos. No matter where you edit (phone, laptop, tablet), Lightroom applies the changes everywhere.
- January 07, 2020
- 30 min to read
- Upgraded is the Windows 10 photo editing software with numerous additional features such as the printing studio, as well as the function for creating individual photo calendars, photo cards.
- Upgraded is the Windows 10 photo editing software with numerous additional features such as the printing studio, as well as the function for creating individual photo calendars, photo cards and photo albums.
It has become general truth that almost every Internet user who has an account on social networks edits their photos. For this reason, today we will be looking at Top 18 best photo editing software for PC that you will make good use of. Let's get it started!
(Shortlist) Top 10 Photo Editing Software for PC with a Free/ Trial Versions to Download
- Microsoft Windows 10 Photos
- Luminar
- GIMP
- Lightzone
- Paint.NET
- Aurora HDR
- Photos Pos Pro
- PhotoScape X
- Lightroom
- Photolemur
1. Microsoft Windows 10 Photos (Windows 10's Built-In App)
This app replaced its predecessor, Windows Photo Gallery. Although the software lost some of the features and tools, it still offers all the basic and essential means of editing your photographs and videos.
The first thing you notice when getting acquainted with Microsoft Windows 10 Photos is the minimalistic interface that is easy to interact with. The photostream is horizontal, which some users may find a bit unusual, but this feature actually contributes to the convenience of the app. You can rest assured that no extra icons will get in your way!
The key tools include Enhance, Contrast, Brightness, Shadow, Tint, Warmth and Filters. With videos, you will be able to add some music as a background, create clips and projects. The software is free so don't hesitate to give it a go!
2. Luminar (7 days fully free)
A great solution for those who are ready to buy editing software and use it regularly, Luminar is also available for a 7-day free trial. It's considered one of the leading software of its category on the market.
Luminar can fix minor drawbacks in your pictures automatically, or you can take control over it and turn to the following tools: brushes, filters, Enhance, Curves and others. The software loses out on some up-to-date features like adding location or face recognition, but the stability and convenience balance up.
You can store your pictures in catalogs or easily import them to the PC files or elsewhere. Luminar supports numerous photo formats, including RAW. Edit your pictures with the help of filters or adjust the colors separately for the best result.
Another decent competitor is GIMP, a true pioneer of photo editing founded back in 2002 and developed to a great extent now. The design has undergone changes – all the tools you will now find in one window! In addition to that, you can choose the background color of the software that will suit your taste the most.
GIMP now operates GEGL, which enhanced its efficiency and work speed. You can process formats like PNG, TIF, JPG, RAW and some others. Take advantage of the split feature that enables you to compare the before and after of your picture and keep your eye on each detail.
Apart from the basic tools, GIMP now can boast with the variety of Transform Tool options, which allow you to work with the scale and perspective within one tool.
For a free photo editing software, Lightzone offers a vast range of great tools and ways to transform images at ease. The list includes sharpening, managing colors, getting rid of the noise, changing brightness, eliminating red eyes, adding glow to the skin and many more.
One of the best features of Lightzone is the ability to undo changes or track them, which enables you to choose what way you like your pictures more. Another quite appealing feature is the quick and smooth processing of RAW format files that allow you to work with the highest quality of your images.
Don't wait around and try this free photo editing software right now!
If you search for a free photo editor to process images on your PC, Paint.Net is a viable solution! The software interface is smartly designed, so you can easily navigate the program. Here you will find numerous tools, such as pen, crop tool, text adding and others. Even the newbies in the world of editing will learn how to handle the app in a split minute.
Another upside of Paint.NET is a rather fresh feature – translucent pallets that don't get in your way while you're editing. However, those of you who disapprove of this feature can just turn it off.
All the necessary means of editing an image you will find in the Adjustment section, where you will be able to work with the color and brightness. Removing red eyes is also one of the key elements of the section. Although Paint.NET hasn't provided some extra tools like adjustment layers, it is great for simple photo manipulations.
This software meets all the standards of an up-to-date editing app – Aurora HDR offers an impressive number of tools and features, including Curves, Enhance, Dodge & Burn, Color Adjustment and a lot of opportunities with the HDR effect.
Aurora HDR operation is based on AI and transforms your average pictures into highly detailed images with a variety of layers to them due to the emphasis on HDR. The results look clear and sharp, the key objects stay in the foreground.
Use creative filters for a change in the mood of the picture. The software has plug-in options with Apple Photos, Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom; the users can process RAW files and maintain the highest quality of their works. You can get Aurora HDR for a free trial.
Produced by Power of Software, Photos Pos Pro appears to be a powerful program for editing and retouch. It offers an abundance of features and useful tools, both basic and out-of-the-ordinary; the app also enables you to create collages and even web pages, so that you can show all your creativity and bring your ideas to life.
The strongest side of Photos Pos Pro is the convenience and simplicity of the interface; the navigation will be no problem even for kids. Professional photographers will take advantage of its compatibility with the RAW format. If this is the first time you work within Photo Pos Pro, don't hesitate and watch the step-by-step tutorials offered by developers.
All the outstanding features are only available in a paid version, although you can get a free trial.
Do you like to apply filters and presets instead of adjusting each detail separately? Then PhotoScape is a great option for you, since it offers numerous effects from film to bokeh, from HDR to Surrealistic effect. The list of filters makes PhotoScape stand out in the crowd of competitors.
Nevertheless, there are tools for photo processing that allow you to work on each aspect in depth. Change the size, brightness, contrast and other settings in a picture. Another upside of PhotoScare is that it enables you to create GIFs, a feature that many other photo editing software won't offer.
Windows 10 and macOS users can download PhotoScape for free; still, if you want to appreciate all the best tools PhotoScape has come up with, you can enjoy the paid version.
Most of us have heard of this photo editing giant – made by Adobe, Lightroom makes one of the most convenient and rich-in-tools software for editing and retouching.
Lightroom operates as cloud storage, which implies that you can keep your images within the app. Take control over all the basic settings: brightness, contrast, shadows, whites and blacks, color adjustment, clarity, sharpness and much more. Change the size and rotate the picture, add presets and frames. Also, be sure to try to create your own presets and share them with others! The variety of features will impress you.
Import images directly from your digital camera or SD card and get to work straight away. Save edited photos in any format you like.
This is one of the best photo editing software for PC with free a download option. Photolemur is rather new on the market compared to the above-mentioned apps. However, this software is not inferior, for it offers you a quick automatic edit with the help of the Enhance tool. You can also smoothen the skin with Enhance Face and make a portrait look more appealing.
Photolemur has a secret – it operates based on AI that conducts an analysis of a photo and creates a unique way to improve its quality.
The users can process many photos at once, which saves time and effort. Just use the Enhance tool and the work is done! The software is available for free download, but not without a watermark in your picture.
11. Pixlr (Web or Mobile Versions)
This photo editor runs in the browser, which has both its pros and cons. The good thing about it is that you don't depend on any device or OS, the bad one – the app won't operate without Flash and you'll have to get used to the advertisement.
You can import photos from your PC or from Facebook, which may save you some time if you're in a hurry. Another remarkable advantage of Pixlr is the customizability of the interface, which implies that the program will meet your unique demands and preferences in terms of design.
Pixlr can offer many advanced features for transforming your photos. For example, within Pixlr users can apply layers, use brushes, adjust light settings or manage colors. Quite a bargain for a free editor!
As you can see from the name of the software, its main goal is to process RAW files in the most efficient and sophisticated way, so that the photos could maintain their quality and look even better after editing.
RawTherapee is perfect if you want to modify the exposure, shadows, color settings, temperature, contrast and some other aspects. You can also manipulate the format and resize the photo.
Those of you who prefer to complete several tasks at once may be disappointed that RawTherapee allows you to process only one file at a time. Nonetheless, the well-thought design makes you enjoy the process and dive into it fully.
RawTherapee enables you to make presets and save the needed settings to apply them to another file. This is a nice free option if you don't feel like buying a photo editor program.
13. DarkTable
This software takes the leading position as far as the number of tools is concerned – here you will be able to crop, rotate, work with curves, adjust white balance and much more. In each separate section, the users will find the corresponding tools.
Process RAW files at ease – bring out new layers and angles in a picture. With DarkTable you can make the colors pop out or emphasize sharpness and natural beauty.
This is a decent opponent to Lightroom, although you don't have to pay in order to use DarkTable. It's powerful and simple at the same time, and that is a fact.
14. InPixio
Bring your pictures to a new level with InPixio – smartly designed and useful photo editor. You will be able to apply filters and designs, as well as create frames or just crop your images. Needless to say, such basic features as brightness, contrast and color managing are all here.
The app has numerous versions and updates, which lets you pick the best one with the most suitable interface and tools. The customers can choose between InPixio Photo Clip 8 and InPixio Photo Clip 8 Professional, the second offering 100+ effects, a handle of frames and text adding features.
One of the high points is the change of background – the software can automatically wipe it or you can paint it on your own. Bring the most important details into focus with the focus tool. Feel sure about InPixio? Don't wait and purchase it now.
Another famous photo editor for PC is definitely worth your attention – you will take advantage of the minimalistic design and all the necessary tools for better image processing. Create a masterpiece by working on clarity, white balance, saturation, curves and so on. For portrait photographers, Picktorial offers a variety of features to improve the skin or make it smooth.
Brushes and gradients make up a great basis for your adjustments and creative deeds. Mp3 music software. The interface may appear similar to the Lightroom's, but it is more of an advantage. Choose the visibility for each tool.
The most attention developers paid to color adjustments – you will make great use of the Color Mask tool and other opportunities to render this aspect of your picture.
Do you like your images out-of-the-ordinary and bizarre? Want to stand out on Instagram? Well, then Polarr is the best software you will find. It's popular for its impressive effects that have no equivalent on the market.
Creating your own filters and using editing tools for face makes the basis, while unusual effects like light leaks and flares spice up the software. Brushes, color masks, enhance, vignette, curves – all of them allow you to process your pictures the best way and get the needed results.
Users can customize the interface, change dark or white mode or create a new colorful design. There is only paid subscription available, although very affordable -- $2,49 a month for quality photo retouch and editing.
ON1 photo editing software aims at providing the best services for those who want to make a change with their photography. If you need time to make acquaintances with ON1 – take advantage of a 30-day free trial.
The app is great to manage RAW files, it adds depth and sharpness to a picture to an extent suitable for each user. You can organize photos the way you find it convenient and pick those that you would like to work with.
Top Photo Editing Software For Pc
Mac and Windows users can purchase the software and enjoy the whole range of features and tools. Want to make the grass look greener? No problem! Irritated by those red eyes? There will be no more! Change the contrast, blur the background, manage colors and never stop creating with ON1.
18. Photopea (Online app)
We close our list with this advanced photo editing software that is in no way worse than all the previous options. The design resembles that of Photoshop and boasts with its simplicity and minimalism. Every tool is kept in its own place and can be reached easily, so you don't have to worry about losing the essential brushes or settings.
You can manage photos with the help of layers, brushes, filters, crop-and-rotate tools and many others. Save your settings to apply them as a preset later. Erase whatever you dislike in your image or add new elements or even text.
Photopea is a decent solution for those of you who need a cheaper alternative to Lightroom or Photoshop. Here it is, waiting for you to download it and get down to creating beautiful pictures!
We hope these variants of editing software will bring out your creativity and imagination!
- January 16, 2020
- 33 min to read
Top 10 Shortlist:
- Luminar (7 days full free version)
- Adobe Lightroom (7 days trial)
- Paint.NET (Free)
- Adobe Photoshop Elements (7 days trial)
- Gimp (Free)
- Aurora HDR (7 days full free version)
- Photolemur 3 (Free with watermark)
- Fotor (Free basic plan)
- Fhotoroom (Free + Offers in-app purchases)
- AirMagic (Free with watermark)
Tired of looking for the free feature-rich photo editor? Does parallels come with windows. Want to try out something new? Or just need to find your perfect editing software compatible with Windows 10? You've come to the right place.
Be my guest and learn about the top-ranking photo editing programs for Windows 10 on the market. Knock yourself out!
1. Luminar (7-day free trial)Apart from being one of the best international editors (it's translated into 10 languages so far), Luminar 4 is also a top plugin for Adobe products such as Photoshop and Lightroom.
The program is very snappy, user-friendly, and easy-to-use. The design is super simple and minimalistic. Nothing distracts you from the editing process. Besides, Luminar 4 team have recently updated a few super useful features you should try:
- AI Sky Replacement (changes the sky, matches the colors of other objects with the sky, fixes poor lighting, and removes unnecessary objects);
- AI Skin Enhancer & Portrait Enhancer (smooths the skin, gets rid of pimples and blemishes without obliterating the skin texture, enhances skin color and adds natural shadows);
- AI Structure (face detection, emphasizes the details, gives a photo a natural-beauty look);
- Sunrays (adds realistic-looking sunbeams between hard-to-reach objects like twigs, trees, and bushes);
- AI Enhance (enhances the overall look of the photo, adjusts the colors to create a more realistic effect);
- Smart Contrast (makes a realistic contrast, emphasizes texture).
✅ Pros
- Boasts of a wide range of video guides;
- Offers non-destructive editing;
- Easy to use;
- A perfect plugin for Lightroom, Photoshop or Photos for macOS;
- Has a free 7-day trial;
- Has pleasant discounts for upgraded plans
✖️ Cons
- A little bit slower than Lightroom and Photoshop;
- Limited exporting options;
- Luminnar's Library loses to Lightroom's DAM.
2. Adobe Lightroom (7 days trial)
If you're savvy in photo editing and need your editor to have all the best features on the market, go for Lightroom. Many professional photographers say that no editing software can ever fill in for Lightroom.
Lightroom is a well-known universal program for editing that has a 7-day free trial. The cloud allows you to save, store, and share any of the edited photos. No matter where you edit (phone, laptop, tablet), Lightroom applies the changes everywhere. Besides, the interface of the program is clear. Intuitive thinking is pretty much everything you need to figure out how to use Lightroom.
✅ Pros
- Non-destructive editing;
- A cloud-based system;
- Easy processing of RAW files;
- Incredible presets;
- Unique filters and tools (post-crop vignette, geometry tools, etc.)
✖️ Cons Dragon slots free play.
- Has more features in iOS version;
- A little bit expensive;
- Not the best decision for beginners.
Paint.NET is a veteran of photo editing. This editing software offers users to enjoy its elementary and snappy design. Besides, the program is super responsive and has no bugs.
Paint.NET can't be called a rival to Photoshop or Lightroom. It's not surprising because, otherwise, no one would ever opt for the latter.
✅ Pros
- The FREEST of all free photo editors;
- A simple familiar design;
- Compatible with any OS.
✖️ Cons
- No text correction if you applied a filter;
- No Burn and Dodge filters;
- No mask of layers.
4. Adobe Photoshop Elements (7 days trial)
This program is a brand new product by Adobe featured in 2020. The editor brings the editing experience to another level. You get hooked on handy modes such as Quick Mode, Expert Mode, and Guided Mode.
Whereas other editors like Photoshop take time to adjust, Adobe Photoshop Elements is a no-brainer. A fully optimized interface, simple tools, and step-by-step guidelines will make your editing fast and enjoyable.
✅ Pros
- Perfect for beginners;
- The best object removal feature on the market;
- Adobe Ecosystem
✖️ Cons
- No cloud storage;
- Doesn't process 3D objects;
- No phone app.
✅ Pros
- Open to code manipulations;
- A wide range of filters;
- 100% Free;
- Fit for almost any photo manipulation purposes.
✖️ Cons
- Could be slower than Photoshop;
- Average score on Trustpilot
- No iOS, Android, and Desktop applications.
✅ Pros
- A lovely and simple layout;
- Super speedy and snappy work;
- Never gets buggy;
- Non-destructive editing;
- AI-powered system;
- Good both for newbies in editing and pros.
✖️ Cons
- Not that functional as Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom;
- No healing brush in the standalone version;
- Long response when uploading big raw images.
✅ Pros
- Instant auto-correction;
- Super speedy;
- Advanced Artificial Intelligence;
- Supports 18 languages.
✖️ Cons
- Could be slow while processing RAW files;
- You no longer know what to do with your Photoshop subscription.
If you're looking for an app to start your graphic design or photographing career, opt for Fotor. It's a simple and feature-rich photo editor that lets you expose your talent for image manipulation/creating.
It's compatible with all the devices you need. You can use it on your laptop and mobile phone depending on your choice. It's free and has an intuitive interface which is more than enough to make your first dive into the photo-editing world.
✅ Pros
- Some freelance graphic designers say it's the best money-value offer;
- Super user-friendly layout;
- Compatible with PCs, phones (Android and iOs);
- Supports 9 languages.
✖️ Cons
- Not fit for professional photographers/designers;
- Gets confused with 800x800-sized photos (last time I checked);
- Sometimes, it's pretty slow.
Fhotoroom is your pick if you're looking for Snapseed or VSCO alternative. The mobile app works flawlessly, especially on Android devices. The desktop app also boasts of cool features such as Text Layer, Highlight Tint, Shadow Tint, etc.
✅ Pros
- Has a phone app, a desktop app, and an app for Mac OS;
- A dedicated photo-sharing community;
- The free version doesn't give way to the premium one;
- 200+ sorting and ordering methods;
- Perfectly compatible with Windows 10.
✖️ Cons
- No auto-correction;
- The in-app camera crashes on iOS;
- The app might crash while applying the Ansel filter;
- An outdated interface.
The software is perfect for newbies in aerial photography. You just drag the photo you need to edit, wait 5-10 seconds, and receive the 'after' version of your photo. Of course, you can edit your photos by yourself from scratch but even auto-corrections could be a final result.
✅ Pros
- Suitable for editing drone photography;
- Drag-and-drop algorithm;
- Useful features like auto-correction, tonal contrast, sky enhancement, haze removal, etc.)
✖️ Cons
- No mobile app;
- You can't edit videos;
- No preset descriptions.
PicsArt Photo Studio is best suitable for collage making. Although you obviously can edit your photos via PicsArt Photo Studio, that's hands down only ONE out of MANY specializations of the app.
When I first saw the official website of the editor, I thought it was the perfect tool for graphic designers, clipart makers, and abstract art lovers. The coolest things you can get from PicsArt Photo Studio are funny stickers for iMessage (just drag and drop them in your chats), dispersion tool, and Challenges section (here you can find inspiration for your future creations).
✅ Pros
- Awesome filters and effects;
- Simple design;
- Integration with iMessage;
- Completely free;
- A built-in camera;
- The variety of templates.
✖️ Cons
- Pop-up ad windows in the free version;
- Available in mobile version only;
- No sync with the cloud;
- The editor gets buggy from time to time;
- It could be a bit difficult to use.
Like Aurora HDR, KVADPhoto+ 2 is an updated version of the program. Why you should care?
- They fixed some lags;
- There are over 150 stunning filters right now!!!
- And over 200 special effects! Isn't that awesome?
By the way, the guys have released many digital photo frames in case you need to make your design more outstanding. KVADPhoto+ 2 features a wide range of photo manipulation tools like transform tools, adjustment tools, magic tools, and artistic filters.
Download Photo Editing Software For Pc
✅ Pros
- Elementary in usage;
- Many customized features;
- Available on all the devices – from PC to smartphone;
- New Clip Art Stickers;
- You can save Collage and PicFrames as projects which is good for prof graphic designers.
✖️ Cons
- Bugs (compared to the old version, they're not that nasty);
- Some effects are outdated.
If you're into simple apps providing basic features, Photoscape is the editing software fit for you. Behind the huge variety of features, most of the users find difficulty in usage. That's certainly not the case with Photoscape.
With the editor, you can do color correction, resizing, cutting, batch editing, screen capturing, tonal contrasting, and RAW editing. That is usually all the average user will look for in the photo editor. Don't worry, your Instagram pictures are sure to be nicely adjusted to your needs with Photoscape!
Besides, for Windows and Mac users, Photoscape offers to use Photoscape X. This one has an updated design and about the same variety of features as its older brother, Check them out!
✅ Pros
- Includes batch editing;
- Allows to make animations;
- A face search feature that allows you to find people looking like you;
- A simple interface.
✖️ Cons
- A bit outdated interface;
- Not quite snappy;
- Doesn't have an erase tool;
- Sometimes, you have system lags;
- Fit only for beginners.
The strongest side of Photos Pos Pro is the convenience and simplicity of the interface; the navigation will be no problem even for kids. Professional photographers will take advantage of its compatibility with the RAW format. If this is the first time you work within Photo Pos Pro, don't hesitate and watch the step-by-step tutorials offered by developers.
All the outstanding features are only available in a paid version, although you can get a free trial.
Do you like to apply filters and presets instead of adjusting each detail separately? Then PhotoScape is a great option for you, since it offers numerous effects from film to bokeh, from HDR to Surrealistic effect. The list of filters makes PhotoScape stand out in the crowd of competitors.
Nevertheless, there are tools for photo processing that allow you to work on each aspect in depth. Change the size, brightness, contrast and other settings in a picture. Another upside of PhotoScare is that it enables you to create GIFs, a feature that many other photo editing software won't offer.
Windows 10 and macOS users can download PhotoScape for free; still, if you want to appreciate all the best tools PhotoScape has come up with, you can enjoy the paid version.
Most of us have heard of this photo editing giant – made by Adobe, Lightroom makes one of the most convenient and rich-in-tools software for editing and retouching.
Lightroom operates as cloud storage, which implies that you can keep your images within the app. Take control over all the basic settings: brightness, contrast, shadows, whites and blacks, color adjustment, clarity, sharpness and much more. Change the size and rotate the picture, add presets and frames. Also, be sure to try to create your own presets and share them with others! The variety of features will impress you.
Import images directly from your digital camera or SD card and get to work straight away. Save edited photos in any format you like.
This is one of the best photo editing software for PC with free a download option. Photolemur is rather new on the market compared to the above-mentioned apps. However, this software is not inferior, for it offers you a quick automatic edit with the help of the Enhance tool. You can also smoothen the skin with Enhance Face and make a portrait look more appealing.
Photolemur has a secret – it operates based on AI that conducts an analysis of a photo and creates a unique way to improve its quality.
The users can process many photos at once, which saves time and effort. Just use the Enhance tool and the work is done! The software is available for free download, but not without a watermark in your picture.
11. Pixlr (Web or Mobile Versions)
This photo editor runs in the browser, which has both its pros and cons. The good thing about it is that you don't depend on any device or OS, the bad one – the app won't operate without Flash and you'll have to get used to the advertisement.
You can import photos from your PC or from Facebook, which may save you some time if you're in a hurry. Another remarkable advantage of Pixlr is the customizability of the interface, which implies that the program will meet your unique demands and preferences in terms of design.
Pixlr can offer many advanced features for transforming your photos. For example, within Pixlr users can apply layers, use brushes, adjust light settings or manage colors. Quite a bargain for a free editor!
As you can see from the name of the software, its main goal is to process RAW files in the most efficient and sophisticated way, so that the photos could maintain their quality and look even better after editing.
RawTherapee is perfect if you want to modify the exposure, shadows, color settings, temperature, contrast and some other aspects. You can also manipulate the format and resize the photo.
Those of you who prefer to complete several tasks at once may be disappointed that RawTherapee allows you to process only one file at a time. Nonetheless, the well-thought design makes you enjoy the process and dive into it fully.
RawTherapee enables you to make presets and save the needed settings to apply them to another file. This is a nice free option if you don't feel like buying a photo editor program.
13. DarkTable
This software takes the leading position as far as the number of tools is concerned – here you will be able to crop, rotate, work with curves, adjust white balance and much more. In each separate section, the users will find the corresponding tools.
Process RAW files at ease – bring out new layers and angles in a picture. With DarkTable you can make the colors pop out or emphasize sharpness and natural beauty.
This is a decent opponent to Lightroom, although you don't have to pay in order to use DarkTable. It's powerful and simple at the same time, and that is a fact.
14. InPixio
Bring your pictures to a new level with InPixio – smartly designed and useful photo editor. You will be able to apply filters and designs, as well as create frames or just crop your images. Needless to say, such basic features as brightness, contrast and color managing are all here.
The app has numerous versions and updates, which lets you pick the best one with the most suitable interface and tools. The customers can choose between InPixio Photo Clip 8 and InPixio Photo Clip 8 Professional, the second offering 100+ effects, a handle of frames and text adding features.
One of the high points is the change of background – the software can automatically wipe it or you can paint it on your own. Bring the most important details into focus with the focus tool. Feel sure about InPixio? Don't wait and purchase it now.
Another famous photo editor for PC is definitely worth your attention – you will take advantage of the minimalistic design and all the necessary tools for better image processing. Create a masterpiece by working on clarity, white balance, saturation, curves and so on. For portrait photographers, Picktorial offers a variety of features to improve the skin or make it smooth.
Brushes and gradients make up a great basis for your adjustments and creative deeds. Mp3 music software. The interface may appear similar to the Lightroom's, but it is more of an advantage. Choose the visibility for each tool.
The most attention developers paid to color adjustments – you will make great use of the Color Mask tool and other opportunities to render this aspect of your picture.
Do you like your images out-of-the-ordinary and bizarre? Want to stand out on Instagram? Well, then Polarr is the best software you will find. It's popular for its impressive effects that have no equivalent on the market.
Creating your own filters and using editing tools for face makes the basis, while unusual effects like light leaks and flares spice up the software. Brushes, color masks, enhance, vignette, curves – all of them allow you to process your pictures the best way and get the needed results.
Users can customize the interface, change dark or white mode or create a new colorful design. There is only paid subscription available, although very affordable -- $2,49 a month for quality photo retouch and editing.
ON1 photo editing software aims at providing the best services for those who want to make a change with their photography. If you need time to make acquaintances with ON1 – take advantage of a 30-day free trial.
The app is great to manage RAW files, it adds depth and sharpness to a picture to an extent suitable for each user. You can organize photos the way you find it convenient and pick those that you would like to work with.
Top Photo Editing Software For Pc
Mac and Windows users can purchase the software and enjoy the whole range of features and tools. Want to make the grass look greener? No problem! Irritated by those red eyes? There will be no more! Change the contrast, blur the background, manage colors and never stop creating with ON1.
18. Photopea (Online app)
We close our list with this advanced photo editing software that is in no way worse than all the previous options. The design resembles that of Photoshop and boasts with its simplicity and minimalism. Every tool is kept in its own place and can be reached easily, so you don't have to worry about losing the essential brushes or settings.
You can manage photos with the help of layers, brushes, filters, crop-and-rotate tools and many others. Save your settings to apply them as a preset later. Erase whatever you dislike in your image or add new elements or even text.
Photopea is a decent solution for those of you who need a cheaper alternative to Lightroom or Photoshop. Here it is, waiting for you to download it and get down to creating beautiful pictures!
We hope these variants of editing software will bring out your creativity and imagination!
- January 16, 2020
- 33 min to read
Top 10 Shortlist:
- Luminar (7 days full free version)
- Adobe Lightroom (7 days trial)
- Paint.NET (Free)
- Adobe Photoshop Elements (7 days trial)
- Gimp (Free)
- Aurora HDR (7 days full free version)
- Photolemur 3 (Free with watermark)
- Fotor (Free basic plan)
- Fhotoroom (Free + Offers in-app purchases)
- AirMagic (Free with watermark)
Tired of looking for the free feature-rich photo editor? Does parallels come with windows. Want to try out something new? Or just need to find your perfect editing software compatible with Windows 10? You've come to the right place.
Be my guest and learn about the top-ranking photo editing programs for Windows 10 on the market. Knock yourself out!
1. Luminar (7-day free trial)Apart from being one of the best international editors (it's translated into 10 languages so far), Luminar 4 is also a top plugin for Adobe products such as Photoshop and Lightroom.
The program is very snappy, user-friendly, and easy-to-use. The design is super simple and minimalistic. Nothing distracts you from the editing process. Besides, Luminar 4 team have recently updated a few super useful features you should try:
- AI Sky Replacement (changes the sky, matches the colors of other objects with the sky, fixes poor lighting, and removes unnecessary objects);
- AI Skin Enhancer & Portrait Enhancer (smooths the skin, gets rid of pimples and blemishes without obliterating the skin texture, enhances skin color and adds natural shadows);
- AI Structure (face detection, emphasizes the details, gives a photo a natural-beauty look);
- Sunrays (adds realistic-looking sunbeams between hard-to-reach objects like twigs, trees, and bushes);
- AI Enhance (enhances the overall look of the photo, adjusts the colors to create a more realistic effect);
- Smart Contrast (makes a realistic contrast, emphasizes texture).
✅ Pros
- Boasts of a wide range of video guides;
- Offers non-destructive editing;
- Easy to use;
- A perfect plugin for Lightroom, Photoshop or Photos for macOS;
- Has a free 7-day trial;
- Has pleasant discounts for upgraded plans
✖️ Cons
- A little bit slower than Lightroom and Photoshop;
- Limited exporting options;
- Luminnar's Library loses to Lightroom's DAM.
2. Adobe Lightroom (7 days trial)
If you're savvy in photo editing and need your editor to have all the best features on the market, go for Lightroom. Many professional photographers say that no editing software can ever fill in for Lightroom.
Lightroom is a well-known universal program for editing that has a 7-day free trial. The cloud allows you to save, store, and share any of the edited photos. No matter where you edit (phone, laptop, tablet), Lightroom applies the changes everywhere. Besides, the interface of the program is clear. Intuitive thinking is pretty much everything you need to figure out how to use Lightroom.
✅ Pros
- Non-destructive editing;
- A cloud-based system;
- Easy processing of RAW files;
- Incredible presets;
- Unique filters and tools (post-crop vignette, geometry tools, etc.)
✖️ Cons Dragon slots free play.
- Has more features in iOS version;
- A little bit expensive;
- Not the best decision for beginners.
Paint.NET is a veteran of photo editing. This editing software offers users to enjoy its elementary and snappy design. Besides, the program is super responsive and has no bugs.
Paint.NET can't be called a rival to Photoshop or Lightroom. It's not surprising because, otherwise, no one would ever opt for the latter.
✅ Pros
- The FREEST of all free photo editors;
- A simple familiar design;
- Compatible with any OS.
✖️ Cons
- No text correction if you applied a filter;
- No Burn and Dodge filters;
- No mask of layers.
4. Adobe Photoshop Elements (7 days trial)
This program is a brand new product by Adobe featured in 2020. The editor brings the editing experience to another level. You get hooked on handy modes such as Quick Mode, Expert Mode, and Guided Mode.
Whereas other editors like Photoshop take time to adjust, Adobe Photoshop Elements is a no-brainer. A fully optimized interface, simple tools, and step-by-step guidelines will make your editing fast and enjoyable.
✅ Pros
- Perfect for beginners;
- The best object removal feature on the market;
- Adobe Ecosystem
✖️ Cons
- No cloud storage;
- Doesn't process 3D objects;
- No phone app.
✅ Pros
- Open to code manipulations;
- A wide range of filters;
- 100% Free;
- Fit for almost any photo manipulation purposes.
✖️ Cons
- Could be slower than Photoshop;
- Average score on Trustpilot
- No iOS, Android, and Desktop applications.
✅ Pros
- A lovely and simple layout;
- Super speedy and snappy work;
- Never gets buggy;
- Non-destructive editing;
- AI-powered system;
- Good both for newbies in editing and pros.
✖️ Cons
- Not that functional as Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom;
- No healing brush in the standalone version;
- Long response when uploading big raw images.
✅ Pros
- Instant auto-correction;
- Super speedy;
- Advanced Artificial Intelligence;
- Supports 18 languages.
✖️ Cons
- Could be slow while processing RAW files;
- You no longer know what to do with your Photoshop subscription.
If you're looking for an app to start your graphic design or photographing career, opt for Fotor. It's a simple and feature-rich photo editor that lets you expose your talent for image manipulation/creating.
It's compatible with all the devices you need. You can use it on your laptop and mobile phone depending on your choice. It's free and has an intuitive interface which is more than enough to make your first dive into the photo-editing world.
✅ Pros
- Some freelance graphic designers say it's the best money-value offer;
- Super user-friendly layout;
- Compatible with PCs, phones (Android and iOs);
- Supports 9 languages.
✖️ Cons
- Not fit for professional photographers/designers;
- Gets confused with 800x800-sized photos (last time I checked);
- Sometimes, it's pretty slow.
Fhotoroom is your pick if you're looking for Snapseed or VSCO alternative. The mobile app works flawlessly, especially on Android devices. The desktop app also boasts of cool features such as Text Layer, Highlight Tint, Shadow Tint, etc.
✅ Pros
- Has a phone app, a desktop app, and an app for Mac OS;
- A dedicated photo-sharing community;
- The free version doesn't give way to the premium one;
- 200+ sorting and ordering methods;
- Perfectly compatible with Windows 10.
✖️ Cons
- No auto-correction;
- The in-app camera crashes on iOS;
- The app might crash while applying the Ansel filter;
- An outdated interface.
The software is perfect for newbies in aerial photography. You just drag the photo you need to edit, wait 5-10 seconds, and receive the 'after' version of your photo. Of course, you can edit your photos by yourself from scratch but even auto-corrections could be a final result.
✅ Pros
- Suitable for editing drone photography;
- Drag-and-drop algorithm;
- Useful features like auto-correction, tonal contrast, sky enhancement, haze removal, etc.)
✖️ Cons
- No mobile app;
- You can't edit videos;
- No preset descriptions.
PicsArt Photo Studio is best suitable for collage making. Although you obviously can edit your photos via PicsArt Photo Studio, that's hands down only ONE out of MANY specializations of the app.
When I first saw the official website of the editor, I thought it was the perfect tool for graphic designers, clipart makers, and abstract art lovers. The coolest things you can get from PicsArt Photo Studio are funny stickers for iMessage (just drag and drop them in your chats), dispersion tool, and Challenges section (here you can find inspiration for your future creations).
✅ Pros
- Awesome filters and effects;
- Simple design;
- Integration with iMessage;
- Completely free;
- A built-in camera;
- The variety of templates.
✖️ Cons
- Pop-up ad windows in the free version;
- Available in mobile version only;
- No sync with the cloud;
- The editor gets buggy from time to time;
- It could be a bit difficult to use.
Like Aurora HDR, KVADPhoto+ 2 is an updated version of the program. Why you should care?
- They fixed some lags;
- There are over 150 stunning filters right now!!!
- And over 200 special effects! Isn't that awesome?
By the way, the guys have released many digital photo frames in case you need to make your design more outstanding. KVADPhoto+ 2 features a wide range of photo manipulation tools like transform tools, adjustment tools, magic tools, and artistic filters.
Download Photo Editing Software For Pc
✅ Pros
- Elementary in usage;
- Many customized features;
- Available on all the devices – from PC to smartphone;
- New Clip Art Stickers;
- You can save Collage and PicFrames as projects which is good for prof graphic designers.
✖️ Cons
- Bugs (compared to the old version, they're not that nasty);
- Some effects are outdated.
If you're into simple apps providing basic features, Photoscape is the editing software fit for you. Behind the huge variety of features, most of the users find difficulty in usage. That's certainly not the case with Photoscape.
With the editor, you can do color correction, resizing, cutting, batch editing, screen capturing, tonal contrasting, and RAW editing. That is usually all the average user will look for in the photo editor. Don't worry, your Instagram pictures are sure to be nicely adjusted to your needs with Photoscape!
Besides, for Windows and Mac users, Photoscape offers to use Photoscape X. This one has an updated design and about the same variety of features as its older brother, Check them out!
✅ Pros
- Includes batch editing;
- Allows to make animations;
- A face search feature that allows you to find people looking like you;
- A simple interface.
✖️ Cons
- A bit outdated interface;
- Not quite snappy;
- Doesn't have an erase tool;
- Sometimes, you have system lags;
- Fit only for beginners.
Pixlr is a trust-worthy editing software that will make it worth your while. The great variety of splendid effects, gorgeous filters, and snappily working interface will make anyone savvy in the world of photo manipulation.
Titanium software maintenance. Retouching tools don't obliterate the skin texture and get rid of unwanted objects on the photo in a few seconds. The Pixlr's drawing tools let you add anything you want to make your pictures stand out.
✅ Pros
- Simple design;
- Has Dark and Light Modes;
- Works within Dropbox;
- Over 500 million users.
✖️ Cons
- No Desktop version;
- Eats the quality of pictures a bit;
- It doesn't work smoothly with a weak Internet connection.
This photo editor is pretty curious due to its primary function. For those of you who didn't know, Lightzone was created as commercial software but, now, it's available for everyone.
Unlike similar photo editing programs, this one doesn't eat the quality of the photos after you saved them. Besides, it easily handles RAW files. Many people consider Lightzone a sibling of Lightroom because of that.
✅ Pros
- So many unique photo-tweaking tools (Gaussian Blur; Fill Flash, Crisp, etc);
- Non-destructive editing;
- The tools you've used get saved in a stack;
- Shows lens names;
- Fancy design.
✖️ Cons
- Support is no longer available;
- No online or email photo sharing;
- Not many formats (the main ones being JPEG and TIFF);
- May seem too basic for pro-photographers.
