View all Manga, Webtoon & 2D Animation Alternatives
Best Free Alternatives to Clip Studio Paint EX (v4.0+)
Stop paying $258 (Perpetual) | $32/yr (Update Pass) | $76.99/yr (Annual Plan). Discover professional-grade tools that won't break your budget.
Category: Manga, Webtoon & 2D AnimationVerified for 2025
Top Recommended Replacements
Krita
FREETop Professional Free Alternative
Why we like it
100% free; professional brush engine; supports CMYK and large multi-layer files; includes a 2D animation timeline; no hidden subscriptions.
Keep in mind
Lacks the specialized 'Multi-page' story management and 3D-to-Line conversion found in CSP EX.
MediBang Paint
FREEBest for Mobile & Cloud Work
Why we like it
Extremely lightweight; massive library of free cloud-synced screentones and backgrounds; intuitive comic panel tools; excellent iPad/Android versions.
Keep in mind
Free version contains ads; cloud storage is limited; fewer advanced brush customization options compared to CSP.
OpenToonz
FREEBest for Professional Animation
Why we like it
Studio Ghibli-grade animation software; powerful scanning and ink-and-paint tools; advanced effects node tree; 100% free.
Keep in mind
Very high learning curve; strictly for animation—not ideal for single-page illustration or manga layout.
Procreate Dreams
Best for iPad Animators
Why we like it
Revolutionary 'Performing' feature for real-time motion recording; incredible performance on Apple Silicon; very affordable one-time purchase.
Keep in mind
iPad only; lacks the technical vector-line tools and multi-page story editors of CSP EX.
PaintTool SAI 2
Best Lightweight Line-Art King
Why we like it
Arguably the smoothest brush stabilizer in existence; extremely low system requirements; focus on pure drawing pleasure.
Keep in mind
Very basic feature set; lacks animation, 3D, and text tools; development is extremely slow.
Need more options?
Explore our full directory of Manga, Webtoon & 2D Animation software alternatives.
Browse the Manga, Webtoon & 2D Animation Hub