Paint.NET
UnclaimedPowerful yet simple image and photo editing software for Windows PCs.
Visit WebsiteReviews onCapterraSourceForge
39 reviews tracked·1 press mentionThe Bottom Line
Entry price
Free plan available, paid tiers above
Biggest pro
Free to download and use (with optional paid version on Microsoft Store)
Biggest con
Only available for Windows PCs
TL;DR - Paint.NET
- Free image and photo editing software for Windows.
- Features layers, unlimited undo, special effects, and powerful tools.
- Fast performance and intuitive user interface.
Pricing: Free plan available
Best for: Growing teams
4.7/5 across review platforms
What is Paint.NET?
Paint.NET is an intuitive and innovative image and photo editing software designed specifically for Windows PCs. It offers a rich set of features typically found in more expensive professional software, such as support for layers, unlimited undo history, and a wide array of special effects and powerful tools. The software is known for its fast performance, leveraging modern hardware capabilities like multicore CPUs, GPUs, and NVMe SSDs.
Originally conceived as a free replacement for Microsoft Paint, it has evolved into a robust editor suitable for both casual users and those needing more advanced capabilities for digital photo manipulation and graphic design. Its user-friendly interface, comprehensive file format support, and active online community with tutorials and plugins make it an accessible yet powerful choice for anyone looking to enhance or create digital images on a Windows platform.
Available on: Windows
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 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
Cons
- Only available for Windows PCs
- Some advanced features might require plugins
- Not as feature-rich as professional-grade software like Adobe Photoshop
Ratings Across the Web
4.7(39 reviews)
Ratings aggregated from independent review platforms. Learn more
Key Features
Intuitive and innovative user interface with tabbed documentsLayers for rich image compositionPen and drawing tablet pressure sensitivity supportComprehensive file format support (PNG, JPEG, AVIF, HEIC, WebP, etc.)Full color management support with Windows Advanced ColorSpecial effects (blurring, sharpening, red-eye removal, 3D Rotate/Zoom)Adjustments (brightness, contrast, hue, saturation, curves, levels)Powerful tools (Gradient, Magic Wand, Clone Stamp, Text Editor, Shapes)
Pricing Plans
Pricing checked Jun 12, 2026
Free Download
Free
Windows Store Purchase
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Reviews
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4.7/5
Across 39 verified user reviews on Capterra, SourceForge
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Paint.NET FAQ
How does Paint.NET support graphic design workflows?
Paint.NET supports graphic design workflows by offering features like layer support, an unlimited undo history, and a variety of special effects and tools. Its user-friendly interface makes it accessible for creating and enhancing digital images.
How does Paint.NET compare to GIMP for image editing?
Paint.NET is designed specifically for Windows PCs and is known for its fast performance and user-friendly interface. While both offer robust image editing, Paint.NET focuses on providing advanced features like layers and color management within an intuitive Windows-native experience.
What are the main limitations of Paint.NET?
Paint.NET is exclusively available for Windows PCs, which limits its accessibility to other operating systems. Additionally, while powerful, it may require plugins for some advanced features and is not as feature-rich as professional-grade software like Adobe Photoshop.
Which teams would benefit most from using Paint.NET?
Teams working on Windows PCs that require a balance of powerful image and photo editing capabilities with a user-friendly interface would benefit most. It is suitable for both casual users and those needing more advanced features for digital photo manipulation and graphic design.
How is Paint.NET priced?
Paint.NET is available on a free tier, allowing users to download and use it without cost. There is also an optional paid version available through the Microsoft Store, which may offer additional usage or features.
Can Paint.NET leverage modern hardware for improved performance?
Yes, Paint.NET is optimized for fast performance and leverages modern hardware capabilities. It utilizes multicore CPUs, GPUs, and NVMe SSDs to enhance its speed and responsiveness during image and photo editing tasks.
Does Paint.NET offer an active community for support and resources?
Paint.NET features an active online community that provides tutorials and plugins. This community support makes it easier for users to learn the software and extend its capabilities.
Source: getpaint.net