Photopea, Joute's Review

The essentials

• Free online photo editor, Photoshop clone accessible via browser
• Freemium (free with ads)
• Supports PSD, XCF, AI, PDF files; full layers, masks, filters
• Suited for graphic designers and creatives who need Photoshop without the Adobe subscription

What is Photopea?

Photopea is a free online photo editor that faithfully reproduces Photoshop's interface and features. Without installation, from a browser, you access layers, masks, filters, blending modes, and advanced selection tools. PSD file support is native: you can open Photoshop files, edit them, and save them without going through Adobe. It's a credible free alternative for creatives who can't or don't want to pay the Adobe subscription.

Strengths

Photoshop interface without installation

For anyone who knows Photoshop, onboarding is immediate. The interface is quasi-identical with the same shortcuts and tools.

Native PSD support

Opening, editing, and saving PSD files without Photoshop is the main use case. For freelancers who receive PSD files from clients, it's essential.

Completely free

The basic version is entirely free, funded by advertising. A premium plan without ads is available at a modest price.

Limits

Performance on heavy files

For very complex PSDs (>500MB, many effect layers), browser performance is below the native Photoshop application.

No native generative AI

Unlike Photoshop AI (Firefly), Photopea doesn't integrate generative AI features (generative fill, expand). AI features are basic.

Pricing

Free with ads. Premium without ads at ~$9/month. Check photopea.com for current pricing.

Alternatives

For the full suite: Adobe Photoshop. For UI design: Figma. For quick retouching: Clipdrop. For no-code design: Canva.

Verdict

Photopea is the best free photo editor available. For common retouching, layer manipulation, and PSD files, it replaces Photoshop without obvious compromise. A must-bookmark.

FAQ

Does Photopea work without an internet connection?

Photopea requires a connection to load the app. Once loaded, a partial offline version may work. Saves are local.

Is Photopea legal?

Yes, Photopea is an original creation, not a Photoshop crack. The interface is similar but the code is independent.

Can you use Photoshop plugins in Photopea?

Photoshop plugins are not compatible with Photopea. Photopea's native features cover most needs without plugins.

Does Photopea support GIMP files (XCF)?

Yes, GIMP XCF files are supported. Photopea offers an alternative to both major editors.

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