Paint.NET
Free, lightweight image and photo editor for Windows
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.
- features
- 3
- alternatives
- 6
- platform
- 1
- Updated
- Oct 12, 2026
Features
Our take
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
Editorial assessment by the Alternatives.tools team, based on what the product is known for. Not a user review.
Best Paint.NET alternatives
See all 6 alternatives
GIMPFreeOpen sourceFree and open source raster image editor for Windows, macOS and Linux
PhotopeaFreemiumBrowser-based image editor that opens PSD and many other design files
KritaFreeOpen sourceFree and open source painting app for illustrators and concept artists
PixlrFreemiumOnline photo editor and design tool with AI features
4.3(5.2K) · App Store
AffinityFreemiumFree all-in-one app for vector design, photo editing and page layout
Adobe PhotoshopFree trialRaster image editor for photo retouching, compositing and digital art
4.5(94.4K) · App Store
User reviews
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