Free Krita alternatives

All Krita alternatives

1. 

   

   GIMP

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   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
2. 

   

   Affinity

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   Affinity is a professional creative app from Canva that merges the former Affinity Designer, Photo and Publisher into one program with vector, pixel and layout workspaces. It is free to download for Windows and macOS, while its optional Canva AI tools require a paid Canva plan. It suits designers who want an alternative to Adobe subscriptions and can import PSD, PDF and IDML files.

   12 Affinity alternatives

   Pros

   • Free download combining vector, pixel and layout workspaces in one app
   • Imports PSD, PDF and IDML files from Adobe workflows
   • Professional tools without a mandatory subscription

   Cons

   • Canva AI tools require a paid Canva plan
   • Smaller plugin and training ecosystem than Adobe’s
   • Imported Adobe files can need manual adjustments

   Cost / License

   FreemiumProprietary

   Categories

   Graphic DesignPhoto Editing

   Platforms

   WindowsMac

   Features

   Digital paintingLayersNon-destructive editingRAW photo editingVector editing

   Visit websiteMore about Affinity
3. 

   

   Photopea

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   Photopea is an image editor that runs entirely in the web browser and closely follows the Photoshop interface. It opens and saves PSD files, reads formats such as XCF, Sketch, XD, PDF and RAW, and supports layers, masks, adjustment layers, vector shapes and smart objects, with files processed locally. It is free to use with ads, and an optional Premium account removes ads and adds a few extras.

   8 Photopea alternatives

   Pros

   • Runs in the browser with no installation
   • Opens and saves PSD files, and reads XCF, Sketch and XD
   • Familiar interface that closely follows Photoshop

   Cons

   • The free version shows ads
   • Slower than desktop apps with large, complex files

   Cost / License

   FreemiumProprietary

   Categories

   Photo Editing

   Platforms

   Web

   Features

   AI image editingBackground removalLayersVector editing

   Visit websiteMore about Photopea
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   Inkscape

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   Inkscape is a free, open source vector drawing program for Windows, macOS and Linux that uses SVG as its native format. Illustrators, hobbyists and web designers use it for logos, diagrams, icons, cutting-machine files and print layouts. It provides Bezier and calligraphy tools, path operations, text on path, many extensions and import/export for PDF, EPS and AI files.

   10 Inkscape alternatives

   Pros

   • Free and open source on Windows, macOS and Linux
   • Native SVG format, ideal for web graphics and cutting machines
   • Powerful path operations and a large set of extensions

   Cons

   • Can feel slow with large or complex documents
   • Interface is less polished than commercial vector editors
   • Limited CMYK support for professional print workflows

   Cost / License

   FreeOpen source

   Categories

   Graphic Design

   Platforms

   WindowsMacLinux

   Features

   LayersOffline modePlugins & extensionsVector editing

   Visit websiteMore about Inkscape
5. 

   

   Paint.NET

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   Paint.NET is a free image editor for Windows that began as a student project to replace Microsoft Paint and grew into a capable photo editing tool. It supports layers, blend modes, unlimited history and a wide set of effects and adjustments, and a large community library of plugins adds new effects and file formats. It is appreciated for its fast startup and simple interface.

   6 Paint.NET alternatives

   Pros

   • Free, quick to start and simple to use
   • Layers, blend modes and unlimited history
   • Large library of community plugins

   Cons

   • Available only on Windows
   • Lacks the advanced tools of professional editors

   Cost / License

   FreeProprietary

   Categories

   Photo Editing

   Platforms

   Windows

   Features

   AI image editingLayersPlugins & extensions

   Visit websiteMore about Paint.NET