Top 10 Free Alternatives to Corel Photo-Paint in 2025

For those seeking powerful alternatives to Corel Photo-Paint without the cost, a variety of free tools have emerged in 2025 that cater to both amateur and professional image editing needs. This article explores the top 10 free alternatives, detailing their features, platform compatibility, and ease of use.

Boost Your SEO by Getting Featured in Our Blogs and get a backlink.

We publish content about startups, education, tech, funding, etc. that ranks well not only in Google but also in Perplexity, ChatGPT, Grok and other AI tools.

👉 Get featured now!

1. GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program)

Description: GIMP is a powerful, open-source raster graphics editor, widely considered the best free alternative to Photoshop. It is suitable for photo retouching, image composition, and image authoring.
Features:
Full suite of tools for image editing, painting, and manipulation.
Supports layers, masks, filters, and a wide range of file formats.
Highly customizable interface with plugins for extended functionality.
Advanced color management system.
Scripting capabilities for automating tasks.
Data Points:
Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux
Cost: Free
Ease of Use: Has a steeper learning curve but offers extensive customization.
File Support: Supports numerous file formats including PNG, JPEG, GIF, TIFF, PSD, and more.
Community Support: Large and active user community, extensive documentation and tutorials available.
Direct Link: Learn more about GIMP

2. Photopea

Description: Photopea is a free, online image editor that works directly in your browser, offering a user interface and functionality very similar to Photoshop.
Features:
Supports layers, masks, selection tools, and various adjustment options.
Compatible with PSD, XCF, Sketch, and other file formats.
Includes various filters, effects, and drawing tools.
Advanced features include smart objects, layer styles, and vector tools.
Supports scripting for advanced workflows.
Data Points:
Platform: Browser-based (works on any OS)
Cost: Free (with optional paid version for ad removal)
Ease of Use: User-friendly, especially for those familiar with Photoshop.
File Support: Wide range including PSD, PNG, JPG, GIF, SVG and more.
Accessibility: Accessible on any device with a browser, no installation needed.
Direct Link: Explore Photopea

Get your FREE Landing Page Analysis!

Insert your landing page link and get a super useful analysis and easy fixes to get more clicks!

👉 Get Your Analysis Here!

3. Krita

Description: Krita is a free, open-source painting program primarily designed for digital painting and illustration, but it includes a number of tools useful for image editing.
Features:
Designed for concept art, textures, matte painting and illustrations.
Extensive brush engine, layer management, and color management tools.
Supports HDR images and various color modes.
Customizable interface with advanced docking system.
Includes various filters, drawing aids, and animation tools.
Data Points:
Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux
Cost: Free
Ease of Use: Intuitive for artists, may require some learning for general image editing.
File Support: Supports many formats including PNG, JPG, GIF, TIFF, and PSD.
Focus: Tailored for digital painters and illustrators, strong on brush customization.
Direct Link: Discover Krita

4. Pixlr E

Description: Pixlr E is an advanced, online photo editor from the Pixlr suite that is closer to a desktop editing software than its Pixlr X sibling.
Features:
Advanced photo editing tools including layers, masks, and blend modes.
Supports various selection tools, filters, and effects.
Includes vector tools, text tools, and advanced transformation options.
Offers a wide range of file format support, including PSD files.
AI-powered tools for quick edits and object removal.
Data Points:
Platform: Browser-based (works on any OS)
Cost: Free (with optional paid subscription for additional features and ad removal)
Ease of Use: Similar to Photoshop, a bit more complex than other online editors.
File Support: PSD, JPG, PNG, WebP, SVG and more.
Functionality: Offers similar capabilities to high-end software, free and accessible online.
Direct Link: Learn more about Pixlr E

5. Paint.NET

Description: Paint.NET is a free image editing software for Windows. It's more powerful than Microsoft Paint, yet simpler than GIMP, suitable for casual and intermediate users.
Features:
Simple and intuitive user interface.
Supports layers, plugins, and a variety of image adjustments.
Offers a range of filters, special effects, and drawing tools.
Automatic updates for plugins and added functionality.
Lightweight and fast performance.
Data Points:
Platform: Windows
Cost: Free
Ease of Use: User-friendly, good for beginners and intermediate users.
File Support: Supports common formats like PNG, JPEG, GIF, and TIFF.
Performance: Known for its quick operation, even with multiple layers.
Direct Link: Discover Paint.NET

Validate your startup idea with the unique borrowed authority approach: we publish articles about your product in our blog and you get traffic and testers for your MVP

Prove Market Demand: See real organic traffic and waitlist conversions

Unlock High-Potential Keywords: Receive a curated list of top-performing keywords directly from Google Search Console data.

Estimate Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC): Gain financial foresight with an estimated CAC based on real keyword performance data.

🔗 Start validating your startup now

6. Fotor

Description: Fotor is an online photo editor and graphic design tool with a user-friendly interface that is suitable for both basic and advanced editing tasks.
Features:
Basic photo editing, filters, effects and touch-up options.
AI-powered tools for background removal and object removal.
Collage maker, design templates, and HDR capabilities.
Batch processing and cloud storage.
Supports various file formats including RAW files.
Data Points:
Platform: Browser-based (works on any OS), also available as mobile and desktop app.
Cost: Free (with optional paid subscriptions for advanced features and ad removal).
Ease of Use: Easy to use with a wide selection of one-click edits.
File Support: Supports JPG, PNG, WebP and RAW formats.
AI Tools: Strong focus on AI features for quick and efficient editing.
Direct Link: Explore Fotor

7. Canva

Description: Canva is primarily a graphic design tool, but it also includes robust photo editing capabilities, making it great for creating social media graphics, presentations, and more.
Features:
Drag-and-drop interface with thousands of design templates.
Basic photo editing tools, including filters, adjustments, and cropping.
Text tools, shapes, and elements for design.
Cloud storage and collaboration features.
Mobile apps for on-the-go editing.
Data Points:
Platform: Browser-based (works on any OS), also available as mobile app.
Cost: Free (with optional paid plans for additional features and templates).
Ease of Use: Very user-friendly, with a focus on ease of use and quick results.
File Support: Supports various formats including JPG, PNG, and PDF.
Focus: More on graphic design with photo editing capabilities, good for marketing.
Direct Link: Learn more about Canva

8. PhotoScape X

Description: PhotoScape X is a free photo editing software for Windows and macOS with a variety of features for beginners and intermediate users.
Features:
Includes a variety of editing tools such as cropping, resizing, color adjustment, filters and effects.
Features batch editing capabilities for processing multiple images at once.
Offers a collage maker, GIF creator and screen capture tool.
Supports RAW image format and offers a viewer and converter.
User-friendly interface with a wide range of tools for various photo editing needs.
Data Points:
Platform: Windows, macOS
Cost: Free (with optional pro version for additional features).
Ease of Use: Simple and user-friendly, ideal for beginners and casual users.
File Support: Supports many formats including RAW, JPEG, PNG, GIF.
Additional Tools: Includes features for collage making, GIF creation, and screen capture.
Direct Link: Discover PhotoScape X

9. RawTherapee

Description: RawTherapee is a free, open-source RAW image processor designed for professional photographers needing high-quality results.
Features:
Specifically focused on processing RAW images from digital cameras.
Advanced color correction, noise reduction, and detail enhancement tools.
Supports multiple color spaces and profiles.
Non-destructive editing with a history panel.
Batch processing capabilities.
Data Points:
Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux
Cost: Free
Ease of Use: Steeper learning curve for beginners due to advanced tools.
File Support: Primarily RAW image files from various camera brands.
Functionality: Advanced processing and color correction tools for high quality results.
Direct Link: Learn more about RawTherapee

10. Microsoft Paint (Built-in Windows)

Description: Microsoft Paint is a simple, built-in raster graphics editor included with Windows. It is easy to use and suitable for basic image editing and drawing tasks.
Features:
Basic drawing and painting tools.
Cropping, resizing and rotation features.
Simple color selection and fill options.
Ability to add shapes and text.
Suitable for quick and basic image editing.
Data Points:
Platform: Windows
Cost: Free (comes with Windows)
Ease of Use: Very simple and user-friendly, ideal for beginners.
File Support: JPG, PNG, BMP, GIF.
Simplicity: Basic editing and drawing tools without many advanced features.
Direct Link: Learn more about Microsoft Paint

These 10 alternatives should give users a variety of free options for image editing in 2025, ranging from basic to professional level functionality.

Join ElonaHunt (like ProductHunt but for women) and explore the coolest women-focused startups out there!

Discover your next big inspiration and connect with like-minded female entrepreneurs!

👉 Join the Hunt Here

FAQ

1. What is the best open-source alternative to Corel Photo-Paint?

GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) is widely considered the best open-source alternative, offering a comprehensive suite of tools for image editing, painting, and manipulation. Learn more about GIMP

2. Is there a browser-based alternative to Corel Photo-Paint?

Yes, Photopea is a free, online image editor that works directly in your browser, mimicking the functionality and interface of Photoshop. Explore Photopea

3. Which alternative is best for digital painting and illustration?

Krita is designed primarily for digital painting and illustration, providing extensive brush engines, layer management, and color management tools. Discover Krita

4. What is the simplest alternative for beginners?

Microsoft Paint, included free with Windows, is extremely beginner-friendly with basic editing and drawing tools. Learn about Microsoft Paint

5. Which online platform offers advanced photo editing similar to desktop software?

Pixlr E offers advanced photo editing tools similar to desktop software, including layers, masks, blend modes, and more. Check out Pixlr E

6. What alternative is best suited for intermediate users on Windows?

Paint.NET is a free image editing software for Windows with a user-friendly interface and a wide range of features suitable for intermediate users. Learn more about Paint.NET

7. Are there any free alternatives focused on RAW image processing?

RawTherapee is a free, open-source RAW image processor designed for professional photographers, focusing on high-quality results. Discover RawTherapee

8. Is there a graphic design tool with robust photo editing features?

Canva is primarily a graphic design tool but includes robust photo editing capabilities, great for creating social media graphics and presentations. Explore Canva

9. What alternative offers AI-powered photo editing tools?

Fotor is an online photo editor and graphic design tool with AI-powered features for quick edits and object removal. Learn about Fotor

10. What is a comprehensive free photo editing software for both Windows and macOS?

PhotoScape X offers a variety of editing tools, batch editing, RAW support, and more, making it comprehensive for both beginners and intermediate users. Check out PhotoScape X

References

About the Author

Violetta Bonenkamp, also known as MeanCEO, is an experienced startup founder with an impressive educational background including an MBA and four other higher education degrees. She has over 20 years of work experience across multiple countries, including 5 years as a solopreneur and serial entrepreneur. She’s been living, studying and working in many countries around the globe and her extensive multicultural experience has influenced her immensely.

Violetta is a true multiple specialist who has built expertise in Linguistics, Education, Business Management, Blockchain, Entrepreneurship, Intellectual Property, Game Design, AI, SEO, Digital Marketing, cyber security and zero code automations. Her extensive educational journey includes a Master of Arts in Linguistics and Education, an Advanced Master in Linguistics from Belgium (2006-2007), an MBA from Blekinge Institute of Technology in Sweden (2006-2008), and an Erasmus Mundus joint program European Master of Higher Education from universities in Norway, Finland, and Portugal (2009).

She is the founder of Fe/male Switch, a startup game that encourages women to enter STEM fields, and also leads CADChain, and multiple other projects like the Directory of 1,000 Startup Cities with a proprietary MeanCEO Index that ranks cities for female entrepreneurs. Violetta created the "gamepreneurship" methodology, which forms the scientific basis of her startup game. She also builds a lot of SEO tools for startups. Her achievements include being named one of the top 100 women in Europe by EU Startups in 2022 and being nominated for Impact Person of the year at the Dutch Blockchain Week. She is an author with Sifted and a speaker at different Universities. Recently she published a book on Startup Idea Validation the right way: from zero to first customers and beyond and launched a Directory of 1,500+ websites for startups to list themselves in order to gain traction and build backlinks.

For the past several years Violetta has been living between the Netherlands and Malta, while also regularly traveling to different destinations around the globe, usually due to her entrepreneurial activities. This has led her to start writing about different locations and amenities from the POV of an entrepreneur. Here’s her recent article about the best hotels in Italy to work from.

About the Publication

Fe/male Switch is an innovative startup platform designed to empower women entrepreneurs through an immersive, game-like experience. Founded in 2020 during the pandemic "without any funding and without any code," this non-profit initiative has evolved into a comprehensive educational tool for aspiring female entrepreneurs.The platform was co-founded by Violetta Shishkina-Bonenkamp, who serves as CEO and one of the lead authors of the Startup News branch.

Mission and Purpose

Fe/male Switch Foundation was created to address the gender gap in the tech and entrepreneurship space. The platform aims to skill-up future female tech leaders and empower them to create resilient and innovative tech startups through what they call "gamepreneurship". By putting players in a virtual startup village where they must survive and thrive, the startup game allows women to test their entrepreneurial abilities without financial risk.

Key Features

The platform offers a unique blend of news, resources,learning, networking, and practical application within a supportive, female-focused environment:

Skill Lab: Micro-modules covering essential startup skills
Virtual Startup Building: Create or join startups and tackle real-world challenges
AI Co-founder (PlayPal): Guides users through the startup process
SANDBOX: A testing environment for idea validation before launch
Wellness Integration: Virtual activities to balance work and self-care
Marketplace: Buy or sell expert sessions and tutorials

Impact and Growth

Since its inception, Fe/male Switch has shown impressive growth:

3,000+ female entrepreneurs in the community
100+ startup tools built
5,000+ pieces of articles and news written

Partnerships

Fe/male Switch has formed strategic partnerships to enhance its offerings. In January 2022, it teamed up with global website builder Tilda to provide free access to website building tools and mentorship services for Fe/male Switch participants.

Recognition

Fe/male Switch has received media attention for its innovative approach to closing the gender gap in tech entrepreneurship. The platform has been featured in various publications highlighting its unique "play to learn and earn" model.