Paint.NET vs Photopea: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Paint.NET and Photopea 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.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Paint.NET
Powerful yet simple image and photo editing software for Windows PCs.
Best for you if:
- • Free image and photo editing software for Windows.
- • Features layers, unlimited undo, special effects, and powerful tools.
Photopea
Powerful Photoshop-like image editor, no installation needed
Best for you if:
- • Photopea is a free online photo editor compatible with PSD files
- • It provides Photoshop-like editing in the browser without installation
| At a Glance |  Paint.NET |  Photopea |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Contact us/moWindows Store Purchase | $5/monthPremium |
Best For | Image Editing | Image Editing |
Rating | - | - |
Choose Paint.NET or Photopea?
Choose Paint.NET if
Powerful yet simple image and photo editing software for Windows PCs.
- Free to download and use (with optional paid version on Microsoft Store)
- Fast performance and optimized for modern hardware
- User-friendly interface, easy to learn
Choose Photopea if
Powerful Photoshop-like image editor, no installation needed
- Free Photoshop alternative
- Browser-based
- PSD support
| Feature | Paint.NET | Photopea |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.7/5 39 reviews | ★4.6/5 130 reviews |
| Categories | Image EditingGraphic Design | Image EditingGraphic Design |
In-Depth Analysis
Paint.NET
Powerful yet simple image and photo editing software for Windows PCs.
Strengths
- +Free to download and use (with optional paid version on Microsoft Store)
- +Fast performance and optimized for modern hardware
- +User-friendly interface, easy to learn
- +Includes advanced features like layers and color management
- +Active online community with tutorials and plugins
Weaknesses
- -Only available for Windows PCs
- -Some advanced features might require plugins
- -Not as feature-rich as professional-grade software like Adobe Photoshop
Key features
Photopea
Powerful Photoshop-like image editor, no installation needed
Strengths
- +Free Photoshop alternative
- +Browser-based
- +PSD support
- +No install needed
- +Feature rich
Weaknesses
- -Ads on free
- -Performance varies
- -No offline mode
- -Less powerful than PS
- -Learning curve
Key features
Pricing: Paint.NET vs Photopea
| Plan | Paint.NET | Photopea |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free Download | Free Free |
| Tier 2 | Contact us Windows Store Purchase | $5 month Premium |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Paint.NET pricing and Photopea pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Paint.NET
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Paint.NET
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Photopea
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are image editing tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Photopea
- Larger review base (130 reviews)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Paint.NET
- Higher user rating: 4.7/5 vs 4.6/5
The Bottom Line
Photopea is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Paint.NET or Photopea better?
Photopea is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Paint.NET and Photopea used for?
Paint.NET: Powerful yet simple image and photo editing software for Windows PCs.. Photopea: Powerful Photoshop-like image editor, no installation needed.
What does Paint.NET cost vs Photopea?
Paint.NET is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Photopea is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.