In the realm of free image editing, Pixlr is my top choice.Īn advanced-feature stripped version of Photoshop that is entirely web (or mobile app) based. This free tool lets you crop, rotate and resize pictures, adjust brightness and contrast, and remove red-eye. The toolset in Pixlr is very similar to Photoshop (Dodge, Burn, Blur, Clone, etc.) and it also allows text overlay, layers, and various filter effects.Īdditionally, they recently released a desktop version of Pixlr, which is actually a more basic version of the web-based version, but is perfect for the simple crop and basic adjustment.

It is browser-based, making it extremely convenient in that it is accessible everywhere and doesn't require an install (since most school computers don't allow installation without admin rights). If you're looking for a relatively similar feature set that looks similar to Photoshop, Pixlr is a great option for you. The free Photoshop alternatives below will hopefully allow your students to do some image editing at school or at home should you not have access to Photoshop or something similar. Photoshop is expensive – granted, it is industry leading – and in many cases the simple crop, effects, etc.

While nothing can truly replace Adobe's Photoshop editing software in terms of feature set and ‘power under the hood,' there are many occasions in which you need image editing abilities that are either web-based or a light install for use with your students or for your own editing needs.

Best photoshop alternative