Are the days of the “subscription tax” for essential photo editing software over ? A perennial question that will not go away. Hopefully the following will give you some pointers.
The Surprising Redemption of Microsoft Paint
Once relegated to the status of a low-fidelity meme, Microsoft Paint has staged a legitimate comeback. Since its inception in 1985, it remained largely stagnant, the modern iteration includes professional features like layer support, a revamped dark mode, and surprisingly accurate background removal tools. While it offers a trial, AI image creator, users should be aware of the 50-credit limitation that governs that specific feature.
This redemption is a significant win for accessibility, BUT it’s biggest loss is that it’s a proprietary accessory built specifically for Windows.
The Affinity Revolution: Professional Grade for $0
Since the acquisition of the Affinity suite by Canva it has challenged the entire Adobe ecosystem, Affinity Photo, Designer, and Publisher have transitioned from paid licenses to FREE, professional-grade tools.
This “three-in-one” suite allows users to pivot between pixel editing, vector design, and page layout within a single environment. Crucially, this disruption extends beyond the desktop, as the iPad versions (Photo 2, Designer 2, and Publisher 2) are also included in this free shift.
Photopea and the Power of the Browser
Photopea has shattered the myth that high-level editing requires a local installation. By operating entirely within a web browser, it offers a “device-agnostic” workflow that allows a creator to start a project on a Chromebook and finish it on a high-end workstation.
Technically, it punches well above its weight by offering RAW file support and a workspace that mirrors the Photoshop interface. For power users, the platform even supports extended history steps, ensuring that complex, non-destructive workflows remain intact without a bulky software footprint.
Krita and the Rise of the Specialist Tool
While many editors try to do everything, Krita has found success by doubling down on a specific niche: digital painting and illustration. This open-source specialist offers a toolkit of over 100 professional brushes, vector templates, and advanced masking tools.
One of its most acclaimed UI innovations is the unique pop-up brush palette, accessible with a simple right-click to keep the artist’s focus on the canvas. While it presents a steeper learning curve than basic editors, the professional reward for illustrators is unmatched in the free software world.
Krita utilizes an artist-first UI that prioritizes creative flow over traditional menu diving that proves free software is no longer a “one-size-fits-all” compromise but a targeted professional choice.
GIMP’s Enduring Open-Source Legacy
GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) remains the gold standard for open-source power. Since 1996, it has been the go-to choice for serious photo editing across Windows, Mac, and Linux.
Its extensibility is its greatest asset, rivaling Photoshop’s suite of filters and a highly flexible interface it remains a tool for those who value power over immediate simplicity. Its enduring legacy is built on a community-driven model that ensures it stays relevant for professional users.
AN ALTERNATIVE – BROWSER BASED EDITORS
Browser-based editors often cater to specific use cases more effectively than general-purpose software as they have advantages over traditional installed software that primarily center on accessibility, flexibility, and specialized workflows for different user needs, as they generally only require an internet connection to function.
Tools like Canva are specifically designed for creating polished marketing materials and social media content, offering a streamlined interface that simplifies design work compared to complex desktop editors. Platforms like Pixlr utilize a tiered approach, offering separate applications for different skill levels—Pixlr Express for simple, quick edits and Pixlr Editor for more advanced users.
While installed software like GIMP is required for professional-grade work, browser-based options like Photopea bridge this gap. Photopea provides a “Photoshop-like” environment that supports complex projects directly through a web browser.
The Future
On the surface, the gap between “paid” and “free” has effectively closed, but development costs money. Companies need to cover costs if they are to survive. Subscription, in one form or another (allowing advertising, sponsors, merching etc.) is a necessity so there is only one question, Is any ‘subscription’ a business necessity, or just a bill you’re too busy to cancel?