GIMP
The free, open-source image editor for photo retouching and design.
Desktop AppFreeWindows, macOS
4.4Visit
Windows App
Paint.NET
A free, fast and simple image editor for Windows.
Built with love by Shushant Lakhyani. Building bestproductivityresources.com
What is Paint.NET?
Paint.NET is a free image and photo editor for Windows PCs, with layers, effects and a simple interface that is easier to learn than Photoshop. The latest version is 5.1.12 (March 2026). It is a free download from its website, and you can support the developer by buying it on the Microsoft Store.
Pros
- Free, lightweight and fast
- Layers and effects with a simple interface
- Easy to learn
Cons
- Windows only
- Fewer advanced tools than GIMP or Photoshop
Who should use Paint.NET
Windows users who want quick, simple photo edits for free.
Who may not need it
Mac and Linux users, or pros who need advanced retouching.
Paint.NET alternatives
Similar resources to Paint.NET, picked from the directory.
Affinity
Pro photo editing, vector design and page layout in one app, free for individuals.
Desktop AppFree planWindows, macOS
4.7Visit
ShareX
Free, open-source screenshots, screen recording and GIFs for Windows.
Windows AppFreeWindows
4.7Visit
optimizerDuck
A free Windows optimization tool focused on performance and privacy.
Windows AppFreeWindows
4.4Visit
VSDC Free Video Editor
A free Windows video editor with 4K to 8K editing and no watermark.
Windows AppFree planWindows
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Krita
A free, open-source painting program made by artists for artists.
Desktop AppFreeWindows, macOS
4.7Visit
Free alternatives to Paint.NET
Free resources that cover similar ground.
Snapseed
Google's free pro photo editor for phones, with no subscriptions, ads or watermarks.
Mobile AppFreeiOS, Android
4.7Visit
Compositor
A free, open source Photoshop alternative for Mac, built for compositing.
Mac AppFreemacOS
4.6Visit
darktable
A free, open-source raw photo workflow and developer.
Desktop AppFreeWindows, macOS
4.4Visit
Microsoft PowerToys
Free, open-source Windows utilities including the Command Palette launcher.
Windows AppFreeWindows
4.7Visit
Flow Launcher
A free, open-source quick launcher for Windows with a plugin store.
Windows AppFreeWindows
4.6Visit
Ghostty
A fast, feature-rich, cross-platform terminal emulator with native UI and GPU acceleration.
Desktop AppFreemacOS, Linux
4.9Visit
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