Pexels vs Shutterstock: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Pexels and Shutterstock 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 March 22, 2026 · Methodology
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
Best for you if:
- 0
- • You need something completely free
- • You need video editing features specifically
- • Free stock photos and videos
- • Commercial use allowed
Shutterstock
Stock images, photos, and videos
Best for you if:
- 0
- • You need graphic design features specifically
- • Stock photo marketplace
- • Photos, videos, and music
| At a Glance |  Pexels |  Shutterstock |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Paid |
Best For | Video Editing | Graphic Design |
Rating | — | — |
| Feature | Pexels | Shutterstock |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Video EditingGraphic Design | Graphic DesignStock Assets |
How Pexels and Shutterstock Compare
Pexels
Free stock photos and videos
Free
Shutterstock
Stock images, photos, and videos
Paid
Pexels is a video editing tool. Shutterstock is in graphic design.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Pexels is free. Shutterstock 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. Shutterstock is paid. Go with Pexels if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Pexels is a video editing tool. Shutterstock is in graphic design. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Pexels
- 0
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Shutterstock
- Better fit for graphic design
The Bottom Line
Pexels is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pexels or Shutterstock better?
Pexels is rated high in our evaluation. Pexels is free and Shutterstock is paid.
What are Pexels and Shutterstock used for?
Pexels: Free stock photos and videos. Shutterstock: Stock images, photos, and videos.
What does Pexels cost vs Shutterstock?
Pexels is completely free. Shutterstock is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.