Photoshop vs PaintShop Pro

Last Updated:

Our analysts compared Photoshop vs PaintShop Pro 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.

Product Basics

Photoshop is a versatile software designed for photo editing, graphics, and design tasks. It offers a comprehensive suite of tools for manipulating images, creating digital artwork, and designing graphics. Users can perform tasks such as retouching photos, compositing images, and creating intricate designs with precision. The software is particularly suited for photographers, graphic designers, and digital artists due to its robust capabilities and extensive feature set.

Industries such as advertising, marketing, publishing, and web design benefit significantly from Photoshop's advanced functionalities. Unique benefits include its powerful layer-based editing system, extensive brush library, and sophisticated selection tools. Popular features like content-aware fill, smart objects, and customizable workspaces enhance productivity and creativity.

Compared to similar products, users often praise Photoshop for its depth, flexibility, and industry-standard status. Pricing varies, typically offered as a subscription model with monthly or annual payment options. For specific pricing details, users are encouraged to contact SelectHub for a tailored quote based on their needs.

read more...

PaintShop Pro is a comprehensive photo editing software that excels in managing tasks such as photo retouching, graphic design, and image composition. It is particularly well-suited for photographers, graphic designers, and digital artists due to its robust set of tools and user-friendly interface. Industries like marketing, advertising, and media production often find it invaluable for creating high-quality visual content.

One of the standout benefits of PaintShop Pro is its affordability compared to other high-end photo editing software, making it accessible for both professionals and hobbyists. Popular features include advanced photo editing tools, AI-powered enhancements, and a wide array of creative filters and effects. Users appreciate its versatility and the ability to handle both simple and complex editing tasks efficiently.

In comparison to similar products, PaintShop Pro is praised for its ease of use and cost-effectiveness. Pricing details can vary, so it's recommended to contact SelectHub for a tailored quote based on specific needs.

read more...
$9.99 Monthly
Get a free price quote
Tailored to your specific needs
$71.99/Unit
Get a free price quote
Tailored to your specific needs
Small 
i
Medium 
i
Large 
i
Small 
i
Medium 
i
Large 
i
Windows
Mac
Linux
Android
Chromebook
Windows
Mac
Linux
Android
Chromebook
Cloud
On-Premise
Mobile
Cloud
On-Premise
Mobile

Product Assistance

Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars
Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars
Email
Phone
Chat
FAQ
Forum
Knowledge Base
24/7 Live Support
Email
Phone
Chat
FAQ
Forum
Knowledge Base
24/7 Live Support

Product Insights

  • Enhanced Creativity: Photoshop provides a wide array of tools and features that allow users to bring their creative visions to life, from intricate photo manipulations to stunning digital paintings.
  • Professional Quality: The software's advanced capabilities ensure that users can produce high-resolution, print-ready images suitable for professional use in marketing, advertising, and publishing.
  • Time Efficiency: With features like batch processing and automated actions, Photoshop helps streamline repetitive tasks, saving valuable time for designers and photographers.
  • Non-Destructive Editing: Photoshop's use of layers and masks allows for adjustments and edits without permanently altering the original image, providing flexibility and peace of mind.
  • Versatile File Compatibility: The software supports a wide range of file formats, making it easy to import and export images for various purposes, from web design to print media.
  • Precision and Control: Tools like the Pen Tool and Smart Guides offer unparalleled precision, enabling users to create detailed and accurate designs and selections.
  • Extensive Learning Resources: Adobe offers comprehensive tutorials, forums, and support, making it easier for users to learn and master Photoshop, regardless of their skill level.
  • Integration with Other Adobe Products: Seamless integration with other Adobe Creative Cloud applications, such as Illustrator and InDesign, enhances workflow efficiency and project consistency.
  • Customization Options: Users can tailor their workspace and tools to fit their specific needs, improving productivity and comfort during long editing sessions.
  • Advanced Retouching Capabilities: Photoshop's retouching tools, such as the Healing Brush and Clone Stamp, allow for precise corrections and enhancements, making it ideal for portrait and fashion photography.
  • Creative Filters and Effects: A vast library of filters and effects enables users to experiment with different styles and moods, adding unique touches to their projects.
  • Scalability for Different Projects: Whether working on a small social media graphic or a large billboard design, Photoshop's tools and features scale to meet the demands of any project size.
  • Collaboration Features: Cloud documents and shared libraries facilitate collaboration among team members, ensuring consistency and efficiency in multi-person projects.
  • Regular Updates: Adobe frequently updates Photoshop with new features and improvements, ensuring that users always have access to the latest tools and technologies.
  • Global Industry Standard: As the industry standard for photo editing and graphic design, proficiency in Photoshop is a valuable skill that enhances career opportunities and professional credibility.
read more...
  • Cost-Effective Solution: PaintShop Pro offers a robust set of photo editing tools at a fraction of the cost of other professional software, making it accessible for both hobbyists and professionals.
  • User-Friendly Interface: The intuitive layout and customizable workspace allow users to quickly find and use the tools they need, enhancing productivity and reducing the learning curve.
  • Advanced Editing Capabilities: With features like layers, masks, and adjustment layers, users can perform complex edits and achieve professional-quality results without needing multiple software programs.
  • Comprehensive Toolset: PaintShop Pro includes a wide range of tools for photo retouching, graphic design, and digital painting, providing a versatile solution for various creative projects.
  • Non-Destructive Editing: The software supports non-destructive editing, allowing users to make changes without permanently altering the original image, thus preserving the original data.
  • Batch Processing: Users can save time by applying the same edits to multiple photos simultaneously, streamlining workflows for tasks like resizing, renaming, and applying filters.
  • RAW File Support: PaintShop Pro supports a wide range of RAW file formats, enabling photographers to work with high-quality images directly from their cameras.
  • Extensive Learning Resources: The software comes with a variety of tutorials, guides, and community forums, helping users to continuously improve their skills and stay updated with new features.
  • Customizable Scripts: Users can create and use scripts to automate repetitive tasks, increasing efficiency and allowing for more consistent results across projects.
  • Regular Updates: Corel frequently updates PaintShop Pro with new features, bug fixes, and performance improvements, ensuring that users have access to the latest tools and technologies.
  • Integration with Other Software: PaintShop Pro can easily integrate with other software and plugins, providing a seamless workflow for users who rely on multiple tools for their creative processes.
  • Comprehensive File Format Support: The software supports a wide range of file formats, ensuring compatibility with various devices and other software, making it easier to share and collaborate on projects.
  • Enhanced Performance: Optimized for both 32-bit and 64-bit systems, PaintShop Pro delivers fast and responsive performance, even when working with large files or complex projects.
  • Creative Filters and Effects: A vast library of filters and effects allows users to experiment with different styles and enhance their photos creatively, adding a unique touch to each project.
  • Customer Support: Corel offers dedicated customer support, ensuring that users can get help with any issues or questions they may have, thus maintaining a smooth and efficient workflow.
read more...
  • Layers: Allows for non-destructive editing by stacking multiple elements in a single image.
  • Selection Tools: Includes the Magic Wand, Lasso, and Quick Selection tools for precise area selections.
  • Adjustment Layers: Enables color and tonal adjustments without altering the original image.
  • Brush Tool: Offers customizable brushes for painting and retouching with various textures and effects.
  • Clone Stamp Tool: Copies pixels from one part of an image to another, useful for removing imperfections.
  • Smart Objects: Embeds images or vector graphics in a way that preserves their original quality when transformed.
  • Filters: Provides a range of effects like blur, sharpen, and distort to enhance or stylize images.
  • Pen Tool: Creates precise paths and shapes, essential for vector-based design and complex selections.
  • Content-Aware Fill: Automatically fills in selected areas by analyzing surrounding pixels, ideal for removing unwanted objects.
  • Text Tool: Adds and customizes text with various fonts, sizes, and styles directly onto images.
  • Layer Masks: Controls the visibility of different parts of a layer, allowing for seamless blending and compositing.
  • Blend Modes: Alters how layers interact with each other, offering creative options for combining images.
  • History Panel: Tracks and allows undoing multiple steps, providing flexibility in the editing process.
  • Actions: Automates repetitive tasks by recording and replaying a series of steps, enhancing workflow efficiency.
  • 3D Tools: Enables the creation and manipulation of 3D objects and scenes within a 2D workspace.
  • Camera Raw: Processes raw images with advanced controls for exposure, color balance, and detail enhancement.
  • Liquify Tool: Warps and reshapes image areas, useful for retouching portraits and creating artistic effects.
  • Artboards: Manages multiple layouts within a single document, ideal for web and app design projects.
  • Vector Shapes: Draws and edits scalable shapes and paths, essential for logo design and illustrations.
  • Export Options: Supports various file formats and export settings, ensuring compatibility with different platforms and devices.
read more...
  • Advanced Photo Editing: Comprehensive tools for retouching, restoring, and enhancing photos.
  • Layers and Masks: Non-destructive editing with layers and masks for complex compositions.
  • RAW Image Processing: Support for RAW files from various camera models, allowing detailed adjustments.
  • AI-Powered Tools: Artificial intelligence features like AI Upsampling and AI Artifact Removal for improved image quality.
  • Content-Aware Editing: Smart tools such as Content-Aware Fill and Content-Aware Clone for seamless object removal and background filling.
  • Batch Processing: Automate repetitive tasks by applying the same edits to multiple photos simultaneously.
  • Creative Filters and Effects: A wide range of artistic filters and effects to enhance or stylize images.
  • Text and Graphics Tools: Add and customize text, shapes, and vector graphics within your photos.
  • Photo Management: Organize, tag, and search your photo library efficiently with built-in management tools.
  • HDR Tools: Create high dynamic range images by merging multiple exposures for balanced lighting.
  • 360-Degree Photo Editing: Edit and enhance 360-degree photos, including straightening and removing tripods.
  • Templates and Presets: Use pre-designed templates and presets for quick edits and creative projects.
  • Customizable Workspace: Tailor the interface to your workflow with customizable toolbars and palettes.
  • Learning Resources: Access tutorials, guides, and a supportive community for continuous learning.
  • Plugin Support: Extend functionality with third-party plugins and add-ons.
read more...

Product Ranking

#1

among all
Photo Editing Software

#21

among all
Photo Editing Software

Find out who the leaders are

Analyst Rating Summary

80
72
96
99
100
100
75
46
Show More Show More
Basic Editing Tools
Security
Advanced Editing Tools
Platform Capabilities
User Interface and Experience
Basic Editing Tools
Advanced Editing Tools
User Interface and Experience

Analyst Ratings for Functional Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

Photoshop
PaintShop Pro
+ Add Product + Add Product
Advanced Editing Tools Basic Editing Tools Collaboration Platform Capabilities User Interface And Experience 96 100 75 91 91 99 100 46 81 97 0 25 50 75 100
92%
8%
0%
100%
0%
0%
100%
0%
0%
100%
0%
0%
75%
0%
25%
50%
0%
50%
75%
25%
0%
83%
0%
17%
100%
0%
0%
100%
0%
0%

Analyst Ratings for Technical Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

60%
40%
0%
80%
0%
20%
100%
0%
0%
40%
20%
40%

Awards

SelectHub research analysts have evaluated Photoshop and concluded it deserves the award for the Best Overall Photo Editing Software available today and earns best-in-class honors for Basic Editing Tools and Security.

Analysts' Pick Award
Basic Editing Tools Award
Security Award

SelectHub research analysts have evaluated PaintShop Pro and concluded it earns best-in-class honors for Basic Editing Tools and User Interface and Experience.

Basic Editing Tools Award
User Interface and Experience Award

Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

Industry Standard: Photoshop is widely recognized as the go-to software in various creative industries, ensuring compatibility and smooth collaboration on projects.
Comprehensive Toolset: From basic adjustments to advanced manipulations, Photoshop offers an extensive array of tools catering to virtually every photo editing and graphic design need.
Powerful RAW Processing: Photoshop provides robust tools for adjusting RAW files, giving photographers extensive control over image parameters from the outset of their workflow.
AI-Powered Features: Features like Neural Filters leverage artificial intelligence to enable complex edits and achieve stunning results with simplified workflows.
Show more
Cost-Effective: PaintShop Pro offers a perpetual license, making it a budget-friendly alternative to subscription-based photo editing software.
Comprehensive Toolset: It provides a wide array of tools for photo editing, including painting, background editing, cropping, resizing, and correcting imperfections.
AI-Powered Features: The software incorporates AI for tasks like image enlargement without distortion and noise reduction, simplifying complex editing processes.
Versatile Format Support: PaintShop Pro handles both raster and vector image formats, eliminating the need for multiple software licenses.
User-Friendly Interface: Its intuitive interface makes it easy for users of all skill levels to navigate and utilize its features effectively.
Show more
Subscription-Based Model: Unlike a one-time purchase, the subscription model means ongoing costs for users, which can be a deterrent for budget-conscious businesses.
Steep Learning Curve: Photoshop's extensive features come with a price - mastering its interface and tools takes time and effort, potentially hindering productivity for new users.
Limited Native RAW Editing: Requiring a separate plugin (Adobe Camera RAW) for native RAW image editing can be seen as an unnecessary hurdle compared to software with built-in RAW support.
Show more
User Interface: Some users find the interface less intuitive compared to competitors like Adobe Photoshop, potentially impacting workflow efficiency.
AI Capabilities: While PaintShop Pro offers AI-powered tools, reviews suggest they may not be as advanced or refined as those found in competing software.
Show more

Can Photoshop really shop 'til it drops when it comes to features? User reviews from the last year suggest a resounding "yes," with many considering it the undisputed king of image editing. Users consistently highlight its unparalleled power and versatility as major strengths, particularly praising the depth and breadth of its toolset. For instance, the AI-powered features like Generative Fill and Neural Filters are often lauded for their ability to achieve complex edits with surprising ease, setting Photoshop apart from more streamlined alternatives like PhotoWorks. While Photoshop's subscription model and steep learning curve are commonly cited drawbacks, users generally agree that the investment is justified for professionals and serious hobbyists who require the utmost control and precision in their work.

Show more

Is PaintShop Pro the photo editing software that lets you have your cake and eat it too, or will it leave you feeling framed? User reviews from the last year present a mixed picture of this Photoshop contender. PaintShop Pro is frequently praised for its affordability, offering a one-time purchase option in contrast to the subscription model of its main competitor, Adobe Photoshop. This makes it a tempting choice for budget-conscious users who want a robust set of features without recurring costs. Users specifically highlight the comprehensive toolset, including AI-powered features and pro-level editing capabilities, as major advantages. However, while PaintShop Pro seems to offer a lot on paper, some users find the user experience to be its Achilles' heel. Reviews suggest that the interface can be clunky and counterintuitive, especially compared to the more streamlined experience of Photoshop. This clunkiness is particularly noticeable in the software's RAW image editor and the Photography workspace, which some users find jarringly different from the main editing interface. In essence, PaintShop Pro is like a well-stocked toolbox – it has all the tools you might need, but finding the right one and figuring out how to use it can be a bit of a learning curve. This makes it best suited for users who prioritize value and a wide array of features over a seamless user experience, and who are willing to invest some time in learning the software's intricacies.

Show more

Screenshots

Top Alternatives in Photo Editing Software


ACDSee Photo Studio

Affinity Photo

Capture One Pro

DxO PhotoLab

Fotor

GIMP

Lightroom

Luminar Neo

Movavi Photo Editor

ON1 Photo RAW

PaintShop Pro

PhotoDirector 365

Photoroom

Picsart

Pixlr

Polarr

Ribbet

WE DISTILL IT INTO REAL REQUIREMENTS, COMPARISON REPORTS, PRICE GUIDES and more...

Compare products
Comparison Report
Just drag this link to the bookmark bar.
?
Table settings