Is there a true alternative to Photoshop?

[md_doc]

Is there a true alternative to Photoshop? (not made by Macromedia/Adobe) If you think there is, then please let me know what it is!

[BigAlReturns]

I think The Gimp is a credible alternative - it's not as well layed out or as easy to use as Photoshop, but it is free, which makes up for a lot in my eyes. In terms of features I think it's pretty much the same.

[ryanhellyer]

As BigAl says, the Gimp is generally the best freebie alternative. However it has an awful GUI in my opinion and I don't use it for this reason.

There is also Paint.net which has a much better GUI, but doesn't have enough features to make it a true Photoshop alternative.

[famousartguy]

I know about two years ago Microsoft attempted to enter the market. They came out with a line of design software that matched each of Adobe's programs. >> http://www.microsoft.com/expression/

Looks like they added some stuff since I last checked. Also, looks like they are no more cheaper??? Strange - I would think they would offer it a bit less.

I haven't used it - but looks very good. Wonder about compatibility??

[BigAlReturns]

Originally Posted by ryanhellyer

As BigAl says, the Gimp is generally the best freebie alternative. However it has an awful GUI in my opinion and I don't use it for this reason.

You're right that the GUI isn't a patch on Photoshop, but the major problem for me is the fact that it uses different windows for the "Toolbar" and the "Layers" sections. With a bit of creative window rearrangement and "Always on Top"ing I can get round this, but it's definitely a pain. I'm not certain if you can accomplish this so easily in Windows - a massive downside to the gimp.

[ryanhellyer]

Originally Posted by BigAlReturns

I'm not certain if you can accomplish this so easily in Windows - a massive downside to the gimp.

The GIMP isn't so bad on linux, or probably Mac either, but on PC it is a royal pain.

There is an alternative called the GimpShop, but it's really just a failed attempt at mimicking the PhotoShop GUI (which I don't like much either), but fails on most levels as it still has big issues with too many windows being open.