Affinity Photo vs DxO PhotoLab

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Our analysts compared Affinity Photo vs DxO PhotoLab based on data from our 400+ point analysis of Photo Editing Software, user reviews and our own crowdsourced data from our free software selection platform.

DxO PhotoLab Software Tool

Product Basics

Affinity Photo is a robust photo editing software designed to handle a wide array of tasks, from basic adjustments to complex manipulations. It is particularly well-suited for professional photographers, graphic designers, and digital artists due to its comprehensive toolset and high performance. The software excels in providing advanced features such as non-destructive editing, RAW processing, and sophisticated layer management, making it a powerful alternative in the photo editing industry.

One of the standout benefits of Affinity Photo is its affordability, offering a one-time purchase model rather than a subscription-based service, which can be more economical in the long run. Users appreciate its intuitive interface and the seamless experience it provides, even when handling large files or intricate projects. The software's ability to support a wide range of file formats and its compatibility with both macOS and Windows platforms further enhance its appeal.

Compared to similar products, Affinity Photo is often praised for its speed and efficiency, particularly in rendering and exporting images. For specific pricing details, it is recommended to contact SelectHub to obtain a quote tailored to individual needs.

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DxO PhotoLab is a sophisticated photo editing software designed to enhance and manage digital images with precision. It offers advanced tools for noise reduction, optical corrections, and color adjustments, making it particularly suitable for professional photographers and serious hobbyists. The software excels in delivering high-quality image processing, thanks to its powerful algorithms and extensive lens correction database.

Industries such as photography, media, and advertising benefit greatly from DxO PhotoLab's capabilities. Its unique features include the U Point technology for local adjustments, DeepPRIME for exceptional noise reduction, and Smart Lighting for dynamic range optimization. Users appreciate the intuitive interface and the ability to achieve professional-grade results with minimal effort.

Compared to similar products, DxO PhotoLab is often praised for its superior image quality and robust correction tools. Pricing details vary, so it's recommended to contact SelectHub for a personalized quote based on specific needs.

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$229 One-Time
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Product Insights

  • Cost-Effective: Affinity Photo offers a one-time purchase model, eliminating the need for ongoing subscription fees, making it a budget-friendly option for professionals and hobbyists alike.
  • High Performance: The software is optimized for both macOS and Windows, ensuring smooth and fast performance even with large files and complex edits.
  • Comprehensive Toolset: Affinity Photo provides a wide range of professional-grade tools, from advanced selection techniques to detailed retouching capabilities, allowing for precise and high-quality edits.
  • Non-Destructive Editing: With features like live filters, adjustments, and layer effects, users can make changes without permanently altering the original image, preserving the integrity of their work.
  • Seamless Workflow Integration: Affinity Photo supports a variety of file formats, including PSD, making it easy to integrate into existing workflows and collaborate with users of other software.
  • Advanced Layer Management: The software offers robust layer handling, including unlimited layers, layer groups, and adjustment layers, enabling complex compositions and edits.
  • Precision and Control: Tools like the Pen Tool and advanced brush dynamics provide users with the precision needed for detailed work, such as digital painting and intricate selections.
  • Regular Updates: Affinity Photo is continually updated with new features and improvements, ensuring users have access to the latest tools and technologies.
  • Cross-Platform Consistency: The software maintains a consistent user experience across both macOS and Windows, allowing users to switch between platforms without a learning curve.
  • Extensive Learning Resources: Affinity Photo offers a wealth of tutorials, forums, and documentation, helping users of all skill levels to master the software and improve their editing skills.
  • Customizable Interface: Users can tailor the workspace to their preferences, enhancing productivity by allowing them to focus on the tools and features they use most frequently.
  • High-Quality Output: Affinity Photo supports high-resolution outputs and professional color spaces, ensuring that final images meet the standards required for print and digital media.
  • Batch Processing: The software includes batch processing capabilities, enabling users to apply consistent edits to multiple images efficiently, saving time on repetitive tasks.
  • Advanced Retouching: Tools like frequency separation, inpainting, and liquify provide powerful options for retouching photos, making it easier to achieve professional results.
  • Panorama Stitching: Affinity Photo's panorama stitching feature allows users to create seamless panoramic images from multiple photos, expanding creative possibilities.
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  • Enhanced Image Quality: DxO PhotoLab leverages advanced algorithms to significantly improve image clarity, reducing noise and enhancing details even in low-light conditions.
  • Time-Saving Automation: The software's automatic corrections for lens distortions, chromatic aberrations, and vignetting streamline the editing process, allowing photographers to focus on creativity rather than technical adjustments.
  • Non-Destructive Editing: Edits are applied in a non-destructive manner, preserving the original image data and enabling users to revert to the original state at any time without loss of quality.
  • Customizable Workflow: With a highly customizable interface, users can tailor the workspace to their specific needs, improving efficiency and comfort during long editing sessions.
  • Local Adjustment Tools: Precise local adjustment tools, such as U Point technology, allow for targeted edits to specific areas of an image, enhancing control over the final output.
  • Seamless Integration: DxO PhotoLab integrates smoothly with other popular software like Adobe Lightroom, enabling a cohesive workflow for photographers who use multiple editing platforms.
  • Batch Processing: The ability to apply edits to multiple images simultaneously saves considerable time, especially for professional photographers handling large volumes of photos.
  • Comprehensive Lens Support: Extensive support for a wide range of camera and lens combinations ensures optimal corrections and enhancements tailored to specific equipment.
  • Advanced Color Management: Sophisticated color management tools help achieve accurate and vibrant colors, essential for professional-grade photo editing.
  • Regular Updates: Frequent software updates introduce new features and improvements, ensuring that users always have access to the latest advancements in photo editing technology.
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  • Non-Destructive Editing: Allows you to make changes to your images without permanently altering the original file.
  • Advanced Layer System: Supports unlimited layers, including adjustment layers, live filter layers, and mask layers.
  • Comprehensive RAW Editing: Provides a complete workspace for developing RAW files with extensive controls for exposure, white balance, and more.
  • Panorama Stitching: Seamlessly combines multiple images to create wide-angle panoramas with automatic alignment and color correction.
  • Focus Stacking: Merges multiple images taken at different focal distances to produce a single image with a greater depth of field.
  • HDR Merge: Combines several exposure-bracketed images into a single high dynamic range (HDR) image with tone mapping controls.
  • Batch Processing: Automates repetitive tasks by applying the same set of edits to multiple images simultaneously.
  • Retouching Tools: Includes a variety of tools such as the Healing Brush, Clone Stamp, and Inpainting Brush for precise image correction.
  • Advanced Selection Refinement: Offers sophisticated selection tools and refinement options to accurately isolate subjects or areas within an image.
  • Live Filters: Apply filters non-destructively, allowing you to adjust settings and see real-time previews without permanently altering the image.
  • Customizable Workspaces: Tailor the interface to your workflow with flexible panels and toolbars that can be rearranged and saved as presets.
  • Vector Drawing Tools: Integrates vector tools for creating and editing shapes, paths, and text, making it suitable for both raster and vector graphics.
  • Macros: Record and replay a series of actions to automate complex workflows and repetitive tasks.
  • 360° Image Editing: Edit and export 360-degree images with support for equirectangular projections and live editing previews.
  • PSD Import/Export: Fully compatible with Adobe Photoshop files, allowing you to import and export PSD files with layers and effects intact.
  • Color Management: Supports ICC color profiles and offers advanced color correction tools, including curves, levels, and color balance adjustments.
  • Text Tools: Comprehensive text editing capabilities, including artistic text, frame text, and extensive typographic controls.
  • Plugins Support: Compatible with a wide range of Photoshop plugins to extend functionality and enhance your editing capabilities.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility: Available on macOS, Windows, and iPad, ensuring a consistent experience across different devices.
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  • U Point Technology: Offers precise control over specific areas of an image without the need for complex masks or selections.
  • DeepPRIME Denoising: Utilizes AI to reduce noise while preserving detail, especially effective for high ISO images.
  • ClearView Plus: Enhances local contrast and removes haze, making landscapes and cityscapes appear more vivid.
  • Smart Lighting: Automatically adjusts exposure and dynamic range to balance highlights and shadows.
  • Optical Corrections: Corrects lens distortions, chromatic aberrations, and vignetting using DxO's extensive lens database.
  • DxO ColorWheel: Provides advanced color grading tools for fine-tuning hues, saturation, and luminance.
  • Repair Tool: Allows for seamless removal of unwanted objects or blemishes from photos.
  • Local Adjustments: Includes tools like graduated filters, control points, and brushes for targeted edits.
  • Batch Processing: Enables the application of edits to multiple images simultaneously, streamlining workflow.
  • Customizable Workspace: Offers a flexible interface that can be tailored to fit individual editing preferences.
  • RAW Processing: Supports a wide range of RAW formats, ensuring high-quality image processing.
  • Integration with Other Software: Compatible with Adobe Lightroom and other photo editing tools for a seamless workflow.
  • Preset Library: Includes a variety of presets for quick edits and creative effects.
  • Histogram and Tone Curve: Provides detailed control over exposure and contrast adjustments.
  • Metadata Management: Allows for the editing and management of EXIF and IPTC metadata.
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Product Ranking

#8

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Photo Editing Software

#18

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Photo Editing Software

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Analyst Rating Summary

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Basic Editing Tools
User Interface and Experience
Advanced Editing Tools
Basic Editing Tools

Analyst Ratings for Functional Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

Affinity Photo
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Advanced Editing Tools Basic Editing Tools Collaboration Platform Capabilities User Interface And Experience 88 100 39 62 90 62 91 51 78 79 0 25 50 75 100
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Analyst Ratings for Technical Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

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Awards

SelectHub research analysts have evaluated Affinity Photo and concluded it earns best-in-class honors for Basic Editing Tools.

Basic Editing Tools Award

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Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

Professional Features: Affinity Photo boasts a comprehensive suite of tools, including RAW file development, layers, blending modes, and a vast library of brushes, making it suitable for intricate photo editing tasks.
User-Friendly Interface: Its intuitive design and customizable workspace make it easy to navigate and utilize its features, even for users transitioning from other software.
Cost-Effective Solution: Unlike subscription-based models, Affinity Photo offers a one-time purchase, providing access to all future updates without recurring fees, making it a budget-friendly choice for businesses.
Cross-Platform Compatibility: With versions available for macOS, Windows, and iPad, users can seamlessly switch between devices while working on the same project, ensuring flexibility and efficiency.
High Performance: Known for its speed and smooth operation, Affinity Photo allows for efficient handling of large files and complex edits, optimizing workflow and productivity.
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Superior Noise Reduction: DxO PhotoLab is lauded for its noise reduction capabilities, especially its DeepPRIME and DeepPRIMEXD technologies, which excel at cleaning up images captured at high ISOs, making them usable for professional purposes.
Precise Color Management: The software incorporates a unique color space and tools like the HSL Color Wheel, allowing for accurate and nuanced color adjustments, a crucial aspect for maintaining brand consistency in visual content.
Lens Correction Expertise: DxO PhotoLab boasts a vast library of lens profiles, automatically correcting distortions, vignetting, and aberrations, ensuring images are technically sound and visually appealing, which is essential for product photography and architectural shots.
Efficient RAW Processing: Recognized for its RAW processing prowess, DxO PhotoLab efficiently handles RAW files, extracting maximum detail and dynamic range, providing a solid foundation for further editing, particularly beneficial for photographers working with large volumes of RAW images.
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Limited Content-Aware Editing: Affinity Photo's content-aware fill and other related tools are not as sophisticated as Photoshop's, potentially making complex edits or object removal more challenging and time-consuming.
No Built-in Asset Management: Unlike Photoshop, Affinity Photo lacks integrated tools for organizing and managing image libraries, which can be a significant hurdle for businesses dealing with large volumes of visual assets.
Absence of AI-Powered Noise Reduction: While Affinity Photo offers noise reduction tools, it lacks the advanced AI-powered capabilities found in Photoshop, potentially limiting its effectiveness for images with high noise levels.
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No ARM Support: DxO PhotoLab lacks a dedicated version for ARM-based devices, limiting its use on newer Apple computers.
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Is Affinity Photo a picture-perfect solution for your editing needs? Users rave about Affinity Photo's affordability, with its one-time purchase price standing in stark contrast to Adobe Photoshop's subscription model. This makes it particularly appealing to hobbyists or those on a budget who don't want to be locked into recurring payments. Users also appreciate Affinity Photo's user-friendly interface, which many find comparable to Photoshop's, making it relatively easy to learn and navigate. The software's ability to handle large files and deliver smooth performance, even on less powerful machines, is another significant plus highlighted by users. However, Affinity Photo isn't without its drawbacks. Users point out its limited plugin compatibility compared to Photoshop, which boasts a more extensive library. This can be a dealbreaker for professionals who rely on specific plugins for their workflow. Another limitation is the absence of advanced features like AI-powered tools and content-aware fill, which are available in Photoshop. While Affinity Photo excels in many areas, these missing features can be a hurdle for users requiring more sophisticated editing capabilities. Overall, Affinity Photo emerges as a capable and budget-friendly alternative for photographers and editors who prioritize value for money and ease of use. However, professionals seeking a full-fledged suite of tools and advanced features might find Photoshop a more suitable, albeit pricier, option.

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Can DxO PhotoLab develop its way into your workflow? Users praise DxO PhotoLab 7 for its exceptional image quality, attributing it to the software's powerful noise reduction and lens correction capabilities. Reviewers specifically applaud the integration of DxO PureRAW 4's noise reduction algorithms, highlighting their effectiveness in producing clean images, even in challenging lighting conditions. The comprehensive lens correction modules, covering a wide range of camera and lens combinations, are also commended for their accuracy in rectifying distortions and aberrations. This makes DxO PhotoLab particularly appealing to photographers working with high-resolution images or those who frequently encounter challenging shooting scenarios. However, some users find the PhotoLibrary feature, intended for image organization and metadata management, less intuitive compared to alternatives like Adobe Lightroom. While DxO PhotoLab 7 earns points for its subscription-free model, which is a significant advantage for budget-conscious users, this shortcoming in its organizational features might deter photographers who prioritize a seamless workflow. Overall, DxO PhotoLab 7 emerges as a compelling choice for photographers who prioritize image quality and seek robust noise reduction and lens correction tools. Its subscription-free pricing model further sweetens the deal, making it an attractive option for both professionals and enthusiasts.

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Screenshots

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