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Open source RawTherapee alternatives

Top Photo Editing like RawTherapee

The most popular alternative to RawTherapee is darktable, which has a free version. Other great alternatives to RawTherapee are GIMP.

Most alternatives to RawTherapee are in the Photo Editing category, compared here by price, platform and features.

RawTherapee alternatives
AllFreeOpen source
2 apps

All RawTherapee alternatives

  1. darktable

    13.3Kstars

    darktable is a free, open source photography workflow application that acts as a virtual light table and darkroom for RAW files. It offers non-destructive editing with a scene-referred pipeline, parametric and drawn masks, color calibration tools, tethered shooting and a tagged image library. It runs on Linux, Windows and macOS and suits photographers who want advanced RAW processing without a subscription.

    6 darktable alternatives

    Pros

    • Free, open source RAW processing with no subscription
    • Scene-referred pipeline with advanced masks and color calibration
    • Runs on Linux, Windows and macOS, with tethered shooting

    Cons

    • Steep learning curve and a dense interface
    • No mobile apps or cloud sync
    Cost / License
    FreeOpen source
    Categories
    Photo Editing
    Platforms
    WindowsMacLinux
    Features
    Color gradingNon-destructive editingPhoto library managementRAW photo editing
    Visit websiteMore about darktable

  2. GIMP

    GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) is a free, open source image editor used for photo retouching, image composition and digital artwork. It offers layers, masks, selection tools, a wide range of filters and scripts and plugins in Python or Script-Fu. GIMP 3.0 added non-destructive filters and a refreshed interface, and it is a common Photoshop alternative for people who want to avoid subscriptions.

    12 GIMP alternatives

    Pros

    • Free, open source and available on Windows, macOS and Linux
    • Layers, masks, filters and scripting in Python or Script-Fu
    • Non-destructive filters since version 3.0

    Cons

    • Interface and workflows differ from Photoshop, which slows switchers
    • Fewer AI and generative tools than commercial editors
    Cost / License
    FreeOpen source
    Categories
    Photo Editing
    Platforms
    WindowsMacLinux
    Features
    AI image editingDigital paintingLayersNon-destructive editingPlugins & extensions
    Visit websiteMore about GIMP

RawTherapee vs its alternatives at a glance

Pricing, platforms and the key features of RawTherapee, compared with its most popular alternatives.

RawTherapee vs its alternatives at a glance
AppPricingPlatformsColor gradingNon-destructive editingRAW photo editing
RawTherapeeFreeOpen sourceWindows, Mac, Linux
darktableFreeOpen sourceWindows, Mac, Linux
GIMPFreeOpen sourceWindows, Mac, Linux

RawTherapee alternatives: frequently asked questions

What is the best alternative to RawTherapee?

The most popular alternative to RawTherapee is darktable: Open source RAW photo workflow app and free alternative to Lightroom. Other great alternatives are GIMP.

Is there a free alternative to RawTherapee?

Yes, 2 alternatives are free or have a free plan, including darktable and GIMP.

Is there an open source alternative to RawTherapee?

Yes, 2 open source alternatives are listed, including darktable and GIMP.

Is RawTherapee free?

Yes, RawTherapee is free to use.

Compare RawTherapee with its alternatives

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