Luminar Neo vs Adobe Photoshop: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Luminar Neo and Adobe Photoshop comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Luminar Neo
AI-powered photo editing software for effortless enhancement and creative control.
Best for you if:
- • You need image editing features specifically
- • AI-powered photo editor with generative features for effortless enhancement.
- • Offers a comprehensive suite of tools for landscape, portrait, and general photo editing.
Adobe Photoshop
Image editing and compositing
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.2/10 vs 8.4/10)
- • You need graphic design features specifically
- • World's most powerful image editing software
- • Photo retouching and digital art creation
| At a Glance |  Luminar Neo |  Adobe Photoshop |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Image Editing | Graphic Design |
Rating | 84/100 | 92/100 |
| Feature | Luminar Neo | Adobe Photoshop |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 92 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 109 |
| Categories | Image EditingAI Image Generation | Graphic DesignImage Editing |
How Luminar Neo and Adobe Photoshop Compare
Luminar Neo
AI-powered photo editing software for effortless enhancement and creative control.
Paid · 84/100 score
Adobe Photoshop
Image editing and compositing
Paid · 92/100 score
Luminar Neo is a image editing tool. Adobe Photoshop is in graphic design.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Adobe Photoshop
Want the highest-rated option?
Luminar Neo: 84/100. Adobe Photoshop: 92/100.
Go with: Adobe Photoshop
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Adobe Photoshop
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are paid. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Luminar Neo is a image editing tool. Adobe Photoshop is in graphic design. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Adobe Photoshop scores higher: 92/100 vs 84/100.
Key Takeaways
Adobe Photoshop
- Higher score: 92/100 vs 84
- More community upvotes (109)
- Our pick for this comparison
Luminar Neo
- Better fit for image editing
The Bottom Line
Adobe Photoshop (92/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Luminar Neo or Adobe Photoshop better?
Adobe Photoshop scores 92/100 in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are Luminar Neo and Adobe Photoshop used for?
Luminar Neo: AI-powered photo editing software for effortless enhancement and creative control.. Adobe Photoshop: Image editing and compositing.
What does Luminar Neo cost vs Adobe Photoshop?
Luminar Neo is a paid tool. Adobe Photoshop is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.