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Best Free Alternatives to PicMonkey (by Shutterstock)
Stop paying $72/yr (Basic) - $120/yr (Pro). Discover professional-grade tools that won't break your budget.
Category: Photo Editing & Graphic DesignVerified for 2025
Top Recommended Replacements
Photopea
FREEBest Photoshop Replacement
Why we like it
The most powerful free tool; supports .PSD, .AI, and .Sketch files; features advanced layers, masks, and smart objects; 100% browser-based.
Keep in mind
The interface is complex and mirrors Photoshop (high learning curve); the free version displays prominent sidebar ads.
Pixlr (E and X)
FREEBest All-Around Photo Editor
Why we like it
Offers two versions: 'X' for quick edits and 'E' for professional design; 2025 AI features include 'Generative Expand' and high-end background removal; very lightweight.
Keep in mind
The free version is ad-supported and limits the number of daily AI-powered 'Magic' edits.
Fotor
FREEBest for AI Enhancements
Why we like it
Superior AI 'One-Tap' enhancement for lighting and sharpness; includes an AI-powered object remover and headshot generator; massive template library.
Keep in mind
Many of the best creative effects and filters are locked behind the 'Pro' subscription; high credit cost for AI generation.
BeFunky
FREEBest for Creative Effects
Why we like it
The best 'Artistic Effects' (Cartoonizer, Oil Painting, Sketch) in the browser; intuitive UI for creating collages; very affordable annual plan.
Keep in mind
Lacks the technical depth of Photopea; the free version restricts access to most 'Touch Up' and 'Pro' effects.
Adobe Express
FREEBest for Brand Integration
Why we like it
Native integration with Adobe Firefly AI; 1-click background removal is best-in-class; access to thousands of Adobe Fonts and stock assets for free.
Keep in mind
The editor can feel slightly slower to load compared to Pixlr; focuses more on 'Social' than deep 'Retouching'.
Picsart
FREEBest for Social Media Trends
Why we like it
Incredible 'Sticker' and 'Overlay' library; AI tools specifically designed for TikTok and Instagram aesthetics; supports batch photo editing.
Keep in mind
Mobile-first interface can feel cramped on a desktop; aggressive upselling of the Gold subscription within the app.
Polarr
FREEBest for Color Grading
Why we like it
Advanced color tools (curves, selective adjustments, 3D LUTs); very modern, minimalist interface; allows users to create and share their own filters.
Keep in mind
Lacks 'Graphic Design' features like templates and stock assets; strictly for photo retouching and color work.
Lunacy
FREEBest Offline Vector Alternative
Why we like it
Completely free with no ads; a professional vector tool that works offline; includes built-in icons, photos, and illustrations from Icons8.
Keep in mind
It's a desktop app (Windows/Mac/Linux), not a browser-based tool; lacks the 'one-click' social media templates found in PicMonkey.
GIMP
FREEBest Open-Source Power
Why we like it
Professional-grade power; zero cost; extensible with hundreds of community plugins; works completely offline with high data privacy.
Keep in mind
Steep learning curve; the interface is notoriously difficult for beginners to navigate compared to PicMonkey's simplicity.
Canva
FREEThe Standard for Speed
Why we like it
Unrivaled template library; 'Magic Studio' AI makes design accessible to everyone; superior team collaboration tools.
Keep in mind
Photo editing tools are basic compared to PicMonkey's 'Touch Up' suite; can feel 'generic' because everyone uses the same templates.
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