Finding the perfect photo editor for Windows without spending a dime isn't an easy task. Choosing the ideal program can become a real headache if you don't know the advantages and limitations of each one, their functions, etc. To help you, in this article we've compiled the most prominent free photo editors for Windows.
From classic programs to the latest AI-powered solutions, we show you the highlights. You'll also discover the type of user each tool is for, its strengths, weaknesses, and usage tips to get the most out of them.
Why we should have a free photo editor for Windows
Free photo editors for Windows are programs or web applications that allow you to modify, enhance, and customize digital images from your PC without paying anything. These programs provide you with basic tools (cropping, rotating, adjusting colors, resizing) to much more advanced functions, such as working with layers, removing unwanted objects, applying artistic effects, making batch edits, or even generating images with artificial intelligence.
Who should use them? In fact, anyone who wants to improve their images: from those who just want to retouch photos for social media, to creatives, designers, teachers, content creators, students, or photography professionals. Even if you just want to create memes, family collages, or posters without the hassle or cost, there's a solution for you.
Comparison of the top-rated free photo editors for Windows
The following tools, based on reviews from leading specialized portals and forums, make up the top free photo editing programs for Windows. Below you'll find details about each one, so you can decide which one is right for you based on your level and goals. These are the most notable free photo editors for Windows:
| Programme | Consumer Relations Platform – | User Level | Featured Features | AI? | Paid version |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GIMP | Windows, Mac, Linux | Advanced / Professional | Layers, filters, RAW support, plugins, Photoshop-like features | No | No |
| Paint.NET | Windows | Beginner-intermediate | Layers, basic settings, plugins, simple interface | No | No |
| Darktable | Windows, Mac, Linux | Advanced | RAW editing, professional management, Lightroom replacement | No | No |
| Pixlr | Web, Windows, Mac | Beginner to advanced | Filters, collages, quick editing, basic and advanced versions | Limited | Optional |
| PhotoScape X | Windows, Mac | Beginner-intermediate | Batch processing, effects, quick editing, GIFs, collages | No | Optional |
| Photor | Windows, Mac, Web | Beginner | Color adjustment, filters, collages, web and app editing | Limited | Optional |
| Paint | Windows | Beginner | Edit and draw, basic clipping, very simple | No | No |
| BeFunky | Web,Windows | beginner to intermediate | Collages, quick effects, design templates | No | Optional |
| Photopea | Web | Advanced | Layered editing, PSD compatible, Photoshop-like interface | No | No |
| Canva | Web, Windows (web) | All | Graphic design, templates, quick editing, infographics | Limited | Optional |
| Inkscape | Windows, Mac, Linux | Designers/advanced | Vector graphics | No | No |
| SumoPaint | Web | Beginner to advanced | Brushes, shapes, layers, 3D effects | No | Optional |
| Ribbet | Web, Windows (web) | Beginner | Filters, cropping, quick effects | No | Optional |
| Photo Pos Pro | Windows | Intermediate | Layers, plugins, artistic filters, RAW editing | No | Optional |
| Ice cream Photo Editor | Windows | Beginner | Basic editing, collages, adding text, watermarks | No | No |
| Chalk | Windows, Mac, Linux | Artists/Illustrators | Digital illustration, movable panels, advanced brushes | No | No |
| Lunacy | Windows, Mac, Linux | Graphic Designer | AI, vector graphics, integrated resources | Yes | No |
Description and features of the best free photo editors for Windows
Let's look in more detail The 10 most popular and recommended free image editing apps for Windows in 2025Each one has its own personality and stands out in certain aspects compared to others. This way, you can choose the software that best suits your needs and your way of working.
GIMP
GIMP It is the free alternative par excellence to Photoshop. Unbeatable in terms of features/cost, it has been a benchmark for over 20 years free and cross-platform software. It allows you to work with layers, masks, filters, custom brushes, advanced editing, artistic effects, and RAW support, among many other options.
- Strengths: Completely free, customizable, expandable, and ad-free.
- Weaknesses: Steep learning curve if you're coming from simpler editors; the interface can be overwhelming.
Paint.NET
Paint.NET It is the evolution of the classic Windows Paint, designed for those who want a more powerful yet simple editor. It allows you to work with layers, has color adjustment tools, effects, plugin support, and an active community developing extensions that further expand its capabilities.
- Advantages: Free, lightweight, and ad-free; layered editing (rare for simple editors); compatible with many formats.
- Disadvantages: Not as advanced as GIMP, some limited text features.
Darktable
Darktable It is the perfect editor if you are looking for an alternative to Lightroom. Focused on processing RAW files and managing large image libraries, it is, along with GIMP, the favorite of many professional photographers who want to work without relying on proprietary software.
- Strengths: Free, cross-platform, professional-quality RAW processing that supports hundreds of formats.
- Weaknesses: Learning curve for beginners and somewhat confusing function groupings.
Pixlr
Pixlr It is a hybrid solution, with both web (Pixlr X and Pixlr E) and installable versions. Its main value is that it offers a simple interface, yet capable of performing intermediate-level tasks, without the need to download anything. It has Options like layer editing, a variety of filters, collage, quick fixes, templates, and basic AI support in the web version.
- Advantages: Free, fast cloud editing, ideal for beginners and regular editors.
- Limitations: Some features require a subscription, there are ads in the free version, and performance issues may occur on older computers.
PhotoScape X
PhotoScape X It is the most recommended editor for editing images in batches and processing multiple photos at once quickly. It also includes cropping tools, film effects, light leaks, collage and GIF creation, image splitting and processing, and much more. Its interface can be a bit cluttered at times, but it stands out for its ease of applying bulk changes and for having over a thousand filters and effects.
- Strengths: Batch processing, beginner-friendly tools, and a variety of quick and original effects.
- Weaknesses: Somewhat dense interface design, fewer manual options for experienced users.
Photor
Photor It is a very popular program for its focus on quick editing and color adjustments. It offers simple effects, automatic filters, facial retouching, batch editing, and a web-based platform that lets you work from anywhere. Ideal for those looking for eye-catching results in just a few clicks, such as collages, frames, or social media posts.
- Strengths: Very easy to use interface, batch editing, fast results.
- Weak points: The free version has a strong commercial character (watermarks, ads), some features are only available with a paid version.
BeFunky
BeFunky It is one of the most straightforward web apps for quick retouching, collages, and design creation. Its free version includes simple editing modules, customizable templates, color and lighting adjustments, and tools for beginners. It's ideal if you only need to make basic adjustments and don't want to get bogged down with powerful programs.
- Advantages: Fast, straightforward web editing, customizable templates, batch editing option.
- Disadvantages: Annoying pop-ups, some useful features blocked in the free version.
Paint
The mythical Microsoft Paint It is still present in all Windows versions and, although simple and basic, it is perfect for those who just want to cut, write or make a quick drawing.
- Advantages: Always available, hassle-free, ideal as a first contact.
- Limitations: Not suitable for complex editing or professional adjustments.
GIMP, Krita, Photopea and other advanced tools
If you are looking for options more oriented towards professional editing or digital illustration, there are several essential free and open source tools:
- Chalk: Focused on digital illustration and artists, also useful for basic and advanced retouching.
- Photopea: A web editor almost identical to Photoshop, for working with PSDs, layers, masks, and much more. Perfect for those who want to edit from the browser without losing power.
- InkscapeIf you need to work with professional-quality vector graphics, logos, diagrams, or illustrations, this is the best free alternative.
Other notable free alternatives for Windows
- Ice cream Photo EditorVery easy to use, perfect for beginners. Allows you to add text, resize, crop, create collages, and add watermarks. Available only for Windows and in many languages.
- Photo Pos Pro: It stands out for its layered editing, RAW compatibility, plugins, and variety of artistic filters. Its interface is flexible, although somewhat cluttered.
- Canva: Ideal for those looking to design graphics, infographics, social media covers, posters, etc. It's not a classic photo editor, but it allows for many basic photo editing and web-based design tasks.
- SumoPaint: Online editing with a multitude of brushes, 3D effects, layers, and shapes. Translated into Spanish and good for creative drawings.
- RibbetEasy to use, with basic controls and some advanced effects. Saves edits to the cloud, making it easy to access from anywhere.
- Lunacy: Free vector graphics editor with AI features, especially useful for designers and those working with SVG.
Tips for choosing the right free photo editor
There is no perfect program for all users. The choice depends on your needs, the power of your equipment, and what you hope to achieve. Here are some practical tips:
- If you just want to quick touch-ups or basic functions, opt for Paint, Fotor, BeFunky, Ribbet or Icecream Photo Editor.
- To advanced editing, professional effects or RAW processing, choose GIMP, Darktable or PhotoDirector Essential.
- To create collages, posters, stories, or presentations for social media, bet on Canva, Pixlr, PhotoScape X or BeFunky.
- If you are a photographer and want to manage large collections or process RAW, look for Darktable, PhotoDirector or Photo Pos Pro.
- To digital illustration or artistic creativity, Krita, SumoPaint and Inkscape are your allies.
The impact of artificial intelligence
The big revolution in free image editing software in 2025 is being the integration of artificial intelligenceMany editors have added AI-guided features that automate processes that previously required hours of work and expertise, such as background removal, automatic image enhancement, artistic style generation, old photo restoration, anime conversion, Face Swap, generative fill, and more.
AI has democratized editing, allowing Any user can achieve advanced results with just a few clicks and without prior knowledge. Here you can see some AI applications to transform your photos, which are setting the trend in 2025.
Which editing program should I choose based on my situation?
The smartest choice depends on what you really need:
- If you are looking for an professional results and total control, choose GIMP or Darktable.
- If you prefer automation and ease For eye-catching results, stick with PhotoDirector Essential, Fotor or Pixlr.
- Are you one of those who prefer not to install anything? Photopea y Pixlr Web They cover almost everything you could ask for, even complex layer editing, right from the browser.
- To collages and quick creativity, BeFunky, Canva and PhotoScape X They are the perfect allies.
- Would you like illustrate or draw? Krita and Inkscape go far beyond standard photo retouching.
With such a varied, powerful and constantly growing offer, Finding the free photo editor for Windows that best suits your needs has never been easier. Don't hesitate to take advantage of these free resources; it's the best way to improve, transform, and bring your images to life from your PC, without compromising anything.