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Best Free Alternatives to Affinity by Canva (Pixel Studio)
Stop paying $0 (Core) / $14.99/mo (AI Features). Discover professional-grade tools that won't break your budget.
Category: Photo EditingVerified for 2025
Top Recommended Replacements
GIMP
FREEBest Open-Source Desktop Alternative
Why we like it
Completely free and open-source; the most customizable interface in the industry; massive plugin library; native support for Linux, Mac, and Windows.
Keep in mind
The 2025 interface, while improved, still has a steeper learning curve than Affinity; lacks the high-speed 'Chroma' hardware acceleration found in the new Affinity app.
Photopea
FREEBest Browser-Based Alternative
Why we like it
Runs entirely in a web browser; near-identical workflow to Photoshop; supports PSD, XCF, and Sketch files; no installation required.
Keep in mind
The free version is ad-supported; performance depends on browser memory and internet speed; not ideal for massive 1GB+ RAW composites.
Paint.NET
FREEBest for Quick Windows Edits
Why we like it
Extremely fast and lightweight; excellent for simple layering and effect work; huge community plugin library for specialized effects.
Keep in mind
Windows-only; lacks professional RAW development and advanced 32-bit HDR tools; limited typography control compared to Affinity.
Krita
FREEBest for Artistic Photo-Bashing
Why we like it
Incredible brush engine and non-destructive layering; built-in animation timeline; 100% free with professional color management support.
Keep in mind
Focused on painting; its photo-retouching tools (like healing brushes) are less refined than Affinity's dedicated Pixel Studio.
Adobe Photoshop
The Industry Standard
Why we like it
The most advanced AI (Firefly) integration for object generation; world-class cloud collaboration; the default choice for major creative agencies.
Keep in mind
Expensive monthly subscription; high system requirements; privacy concerns regarding AI data-scraping on user files.
Darktable
FREEBest for RAW Development
Why we like it
Deep, non-destructive RAW processing that rivals Adobe Lightroom; professional-grade masking and color science; completely free.
Keep in mind
Extremely steep learning curve (modular-based UI); lacks the 'compositing' (pixel-pushing) tools of Affinity or GIMP.
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