best photoshop alternative? free?

[opeter]

Well, you all forget, that the only app aside of Photoshop, that can handle CMYK is Photoline. And that is, what these people need, who do stuff for print.

Also, what other tool can open Photoshop PSD files, that has vectors in it? Only Photoline.

Yes, the UI is ugly, but than if you'll learn it once, you'll find it quite usefull.

 

[ezekielrage_99]

You're stating that Pixelmator has the same functionality as PS for moderate users... based on what's in the standard toolbar... are you joking or serious? This is like observing that my apartment and the White House both have a door, windows, and a toilet. Hardly any of the useful features in Photoshop are in the standard toolbar.

Brilliant

 

[ceezy3000]

id say gimp, i havent really used it but ive heard a lot of hype about it and my friend uses it

 

[Techguy172]

After using Pixelmator for a while coming from photoshop, I have to say while it is good it's missing some essential drawing and styling features that photoshop has. However it would be great for the average user and provide an easy solution for editing photos.

It still has a looooooong way to go before coming anywhere near even Photoshop Elements.

 

[Melrose]

You're stating that Pixelmator has the same functionality as PS for moderate users... based on what's in the standard toolbar... are you joking or serious? This is like observing that my apartment and the White House both have a door, windows, and a toilet. Hardly any of the useful features in Photoshop are in the standard toolbar.

LOL

I can see where Photoshop may be too expensive to start, but if you're serious about design it really is worth it if you can afford it after a while. You don't need CS3 if you're just doing regular design stuff - I have CS3 and still don't know all that it can do (I have no reason to push the envelope anyway). I'm sure you'll be able to find it on eBay cheaply.

There is a reason why Photoshop is popular (well, also why it's so expensive...)

 

[boygeorge]

Photoshop is overpriced and over rated

I still have PS CS2 and can think of no reason to upgrade. Seems like adobe just adds dumb and useless features with every upgrade.

Just bought Pixelmator and pretty much does everything I need.

 

[Techguy172]

I still have PS CS2 and can think of no reason to upgrade. Seems like adobe just adds dumb and useless features with every upgrade.

Just bought Pixelmator and pretty much does everything I need.

You wouldn't be saying that if you actually took advantage of what Photoshop has to offer. Adobe adds some very nice new features with every release especially CS4.

 

[Melrose]

You wouldn't be saying that if you actually took advantage of what Photoshop has to offer. Adobe adds some very nice new features with every release especially CS4.

Kudos for drawing the contrast. Photoshop is only number one if you actually know how to harness it's power. I mean if all you use is the marquee and brush tools, sure, Gimp will work fine.

 

[specialbuddy]

I've never used Photoshop so I can't compare anything to it. I will say that I like GIMP just because there are thousands of online tutorials and it's free.

 

[Sijmen]

I've never used Photoshop so I can't compare anything to it. I will say that I like GIMP just because there are thousands of online tutorials and it's free.

Gimp tutorial: 389.000 hits
Photoshop tutorial: 10.400.000 hits