Top 10+ Alternatives for Paint.NET in 2025
Top 10+ Alternatives for Paint.NET in 2025
Looking for a new image editor besides Paint.NET? You’re not alone! Whether you need extra features, cross-platform support, or a different user experience, there are plenty of Paint.NET alternatives to choose from in 2025. We’ve curated the best options to suit everyone—from hobbyists and students to professional designers. Check out this list and find your perfect match!
1. GIMP
GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) is a top open-source alternative to Paint.NET. With advanced features and customizability, it’s a longtime favorite for many graphic artists.
- Free and open source
- Highly customizable with plug-ins and scripts
- Supports layers, masks, and advanced tools
- Available on Windows, macOS, and Linux
2. Krita
Originally built for digital artists, Krita has powerful painting tools and supports editing photos and illustrations too. It’s friendly for both beginners and pros.
- Free and open source
- Excellent brush engines for painting
- Non-destructive editing with layers and masks
- Good support for tablets and styluses
3. Photopea
Photopea is a web-based image editor that closely mimics Photoshop’s interface. No download needed—just open your browser and go!
- Runs entirely in your browser
- Opens PSD, XCF, Sketch, and more
- Layer support and smart object editing
- Free with premium ad-free option
4. Pixlr
Pixlr offers two web-based editors—Pixlr X for quick edits and Pixlr E for advanced features, making it perfect for casual and semi-professional use.
- Easy-to-use interface
- AI-powered tools for quick edits
- Supports layers and filters
- Accessible from any device
5. Affinity Photo
Affinity Photo is a powerful, professional-grade photo editor with a one-time purchase model, offering great value for serious users who want something more than Paint.NET.
- Sophisticated retouching and editing tools
- Non-destructive workflow
- Advanced selection and masking
- Supports RAW, HDR, and 360° editing
6. MediBang Paint
MediBang Paint is a versatile drawing and painting app, great for manga, comics, and even basic photo manipulations. It’s lightweight, but packed with useful features.
- Cloud saves and collaboration
- Lots of free brushes and fonts
- Comic page management tools
- Works on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS
7. PaintTool SAI
If you need a minimalist but effective painting tool, PaintTool SAI is a fantastic choice. It’s particularly beloved by digital illustrators.
- Light on resources
- Responsive brush engine
- Simple yet effective UI
- Supports pressure-sensitive tablets
8. Polarr
Polarr is known for stylish filters and easy one-click enhancements, but it also offers advanced editing options for users who want more control.
- Free and premium versions
- Collection of stunning filters
- Batch processing and overlay effects
- Available as app and web version
9. Fotor
Fotor is a user-friendly online editor that combines photo enhancement, collage making, and batch editing in one platform.
- Easy to use, beginner-friendly
- Abundant filters, effects, and templates
- Photo collage and design tools
- Cloud-based, works on most devices
10. Corel PHOTO-PAINT
Part of the CorelDRAW suite, Corel PHOTO-PAINT is a robust editor suitable for professionals who need detailed raster editing, design, and illustration tools.
- Professional-grade photo editing
- Integrated with CorelDRAW for workflow
- AI-powered upscaling and enhancements
- Customizable workspaces
Corel PHOTO-PAINT Official Site
11. Sumopaint
Sumopaint is a fun, web-based graphics editor that balances beginner friendliness with versatile features.
- Works directly in your browser
- Offers painting and photo editing tools
- Rich selection of filters and effects
- Layer support
12. MyPaint
MyPaint is a lightweight, open-source digital painter catered to artists who want a distraction-free drawing experience.
- Does not overload your system
- Infinite canvas for large artworks
- Has interesting brush engines for digital painting
- Cross-platform (Windows, macOS, Linux)
Choose the Right Paint.NET Alternative for Your Needs
The world of Paint.NET alternatives is huge and varied, from simple web editors to professional-level desktop software. Whether you’re looking to doodle, edit photos, create digital art, or design complex compositions, there’s a tool on this list for you. Try a few—it might surprise you how much you can accomplish beyond Paint.NET!