The pros and cons of five leading free photo-editing programs/apps
Not everyone needs (or can afford) expensive professional tools to edit their photos. Several free programmes offer powerful features at no cost. Below are 5 leading options, with their pros and cons.
Plus, if you’re using your phone for photography, you’ll already have your phone’s on-board editing software – this can often be quite sophisticated, with the ability to apply filters and pre-sets to give you interesting effects, and often with AI to help you remove unwanted distractions in your photos. In summary:
- Best for desktop: GIMP, Darktable, Photopea, Canva
- Best for mobile: Snapseed, Canva , and (to a degree) Photopea
GIMP
Pros:
- Highly customisable with a wide range of plug-ins
- Supports most file formats
- Offers many advanced editing tools comparable to paid software
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve for beginners
- Interface can feel dated and cluttered
- Performance can be slower with large files
Photopea
Pros:
- Runs directly in a web browser, no installation needed
- Compatible with PSD, XCF, and other common file formats
- Layout resembles Adobe Photoshop, easing transition for users
Cons:
- Free version includes ads
- Can be slower than desktop apps with big projects
- Some advanced features are reserved for the premium plan
Snapseed
Pros:
- Simple, intuitive interface ideal for mobile editing
- Wide range of filters and professional-grade adjustments
- Non-destructive editing with easy undo options
- No ads or hidden charges
Cons:
- Mobile only, no desktop version available
- Lacks some advanced features found in GIMP or Darktable
- File management can feel limited compared with desktop software
Canva
Pros:
- Extremely user-friendly with drag-and-drop functionality
- Wide selection of templates, fonts, and stock images
- Ideal for quick designs, social media graphics, and simple edits
- Superb (far better than Photoshop) for removing backgrounds and leaving the subject on a transparent canvas – deals well with curly hair, for example
Cons:
- Less suitable for detailed photo retouching
- Some features and assets are locked behind the paid plan
Darktable
Pros:
- Strong option for photographers needing detailed adjustments
- Excellent for raw photo processing
- Non-destructive workflow protects original files
Cons:
- Best suited for photography, not for graphic design or composites
- Interface can feel complex to new users
- Limited support for plug-ins compared with GIMP
Conclusion
The best free photo-editing programme for YOU depends on what you need:
- GIMP and Darktable are excellent for those who want depth and advanced controls
- Photopea is a convenient option for browser-based editing
- Snapseed shines for quick and professional edits on the go
- Canva is perfect for design-focused projects and for removing backgrounds from photos