Pexels vs Getty Images: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Pexels and Getty Images 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.
Bottom line: Pexels is our overall pick for stock assets workflows. Pick Getty Images if you need its specific feature set.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Pexels
Free stock photos and videos for any project
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • Free stock photos and videos
- • Commercial use allowed
Getty Images
Access a vast library of high-quality stock photography, video, and music for creative projects.
Best for you if:
- • Vast library of high-quality stock photos, videos, and music.
- • Provides legally cleared content for commercial and editorial use.
| At a Glance |  Pexels |  Getty Images |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Free | Paid |
Best For | Stock Assets | Stock Assets |
Rating | - | - |
Choose Pexels or Getty Images?
Choose Pexels if
Free stock photos and videos for any project
- Free photos and videos
- High quality content
- No attribution required
- You want a fully free tool (Getty Images requires payment)
Choose Getty Images if
Access a vast library of high-quality stock photography, video, and music for creative projects.
- Huge selection of professional and unique content
- Content is legally cleared for various uses
- High resolution and quality of assets
| Feature | Pexels | Getty Images |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| User Rating | ★4.6/5 111 reviews | ★3.5/5 112 reviews |
| Categories | Stock AssetsGraphic Design | Stock AssetsGraphic Design |
In-Depth Analysis
Pexels
Free stock photos and videos for any project
Strengths
- +Free photos and videos
- +High quality content
- +No attribution required
- +Easy search
Weaknesses
- -Popular content overused
- -Less curated than premium sites
- -Limited advanced filters
Key features
Getty Images
Access a vast library of high-quality stock photography, video, and music for creative projects.
Strengths
- +Huge selection of professional and unique content
- +Content is legally cleared for various uses
- +High resolution and quality of assets
- +Reputable and trusted source for visual media
Weaknesses
- -Can be expensive for individual users or small businesses
- -Licensing models can be complex
- -Subscription plans may not suit all usage needs
Key features
Pricing: Pexels vs Getty Images
| Plan | Pexels | Getty Images |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Pexels pricing and Getty Images pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Pexels is free. Getty Images is paid.
Go with: Pexels
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Pexels
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Pexels
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Pexels is free. Getty Images is paid. Go with Pexels if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are stock assets tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Pexels
- Higher user rating: 4.6/5 vs 3.5/5
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Getty Images
- Larger review base (112 reviews)
The Bottom Line
Pexels is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pexels or Getty Images better?
Pexels is rated in our evaluation. Pexels is free and Getty Images is paid.
What are Pexels and Getty Images used for?
Pexels: Free stock photos and videos for any project. Getty Images: Access a vast library of high-quality stock photography, video, and music for creative projects..
What does Pexels cost vs Getty Images?
Pexels is completely free. Getty Images is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.