5 free Photoshop alternatives for in-house marketers or graphic designers

Photoshop is a highly versatile design tool that lets you edit photos, carry out graphic design work and even design your website.

But you may not have access to a paid tool like Photoshop. Here’re 5 free alternatives that’ll help you get your marketing assets out:

1. Canva

If you need a free design software that’ll allow you to design everything from social media posts to EDMs to posters, Canva is an easy-to-use design software. No installation required because you can access it on your web browser.

Most of the essential features are free and they allow you to download most media without any watermarks too. However, you can consider getting their paid subscription for useful functions like Background removal on images as well as access to their library of stock photos.

2. Pixlr

Pixlr is a browser-based image editor and design tool which also allows you to create social media posts, flyer designs and more, all without watermarks (as long as you don’t use premium assets).

You can use it without creating an account if you’re in a rush, or create an account so that you can have access to your past work. Like Canva, Pixlr comes with a premium subscription that gives you access to more templates, fonts and other features.

3. GIMP

GIMP is short for GNU Image Manipulation Program. It is a completely free software that works on a wide range of operating systems including Windows, macOS and Linux. You can download it for free here.

Its interface highly resembles that of Photoshop and comes with a complete library of essential features, minus the latest AI capabilities from Photoshop. You should have no issues with most of the basic designing tasks.

And hey, it’s one of the free designing software out there, and comes with no strings attached.

4. Krita

Krita is another completely free, open-source tool, but it is more suitable for painting, illustrations and concept art. It works on Windows, macOS and Linux, and you can download it for free here.

Its interface is similar to Photoshop and Illustrator and it comes with all the features which digital artists require from a library of brushes to color management. It even has advanced features like Python scripting, HDR painting, brush engines and more.

The best part? You can open PSD files on it!

5. Photopea

Photopea is another browser-based photo editor. Its interface resembles that of Photoshop, even the shortkeys work! So, if you’re used to PS, you’ll have no issues using Photopea (in fact you’ll love it).

It accepts a wide range of files from PSD to AI to PDF, giving you access to editable files and their original layers so you do not have to worry about having to convert your files when you’re working across different software.

Photopea is a good tool to have on hand especially if you have to work on devices without any pre-installed design tools.

Not having access to the right tools can be a major pain when you need to meet deadlines, I hope these free Photoshop alternatives come in handy for you!

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