Photopea vs Adobe Photoshop: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Photopea 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:
Photopea
Free online photo editor
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • Photopea is a free online photo editor compatible with PSD files
- • It provides Photoshop-like editing in the browser without installation
Adobe Photoshop
Image editing and compositing
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.2/10 vs 8.6/10)
- • World's most powerful image editing software
- • Photo retouching and digital art creation
| At a Glance |  Photopea |  Adobe Photoshop |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Graphic Design | Graphic Design |
Rating | 86/100 | 92/100 |
| Feature | Photopea | Adobe Photoshop |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 86 | 92 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 109 |
| Categories | Graphic DesignImage Editing | Graphic DesignImage Editing |
How Photopea and Adobe Photoshop Compare
Photopea
Free online photo editor
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Adobe Photoshop
Image editing and compositing
Paid · 92/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Photopea has a free tier. Adobe Photoshop is paid only.
Go with: Photopea
Want the highest-rated option?
Photopea: 86/100. 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?
Photopea is freemium. Adobe Photoshop is paid. Photopea lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are graphic design tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Adobe Photoshop scores higher: 92/100 vs 86/100.
Key Takeaways
Adobe Photoshop
- Higher score: 92/100 vs 86
- More community upvotes (109)
- Our pick for this comparison
Photopea
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
Adobe Photoshop (92/100) is our pick. Photopea has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Photopea or Adobe Photoshop better?
Adobe Photoshop scores 92/100 in our evaluation. Photopea is freemium and Adobe Photoshop is paid.
What are Photopea and Adobe Photoshop used for?
Photopea: Free online photo editor. Adobe Photoshop: Image editing and compositing.
What does Photopea cost vs Adobe Photoshop?
Photopea is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Adobe Photoshop is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.