5 of the Best Photo Editing Programs for Windows 11

Finding the right photo editing software can be a challenge, especially with so many options available. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here are five of the best photo editing programs for Windows 11 that cater to different needs and skill levels.

Key Takeaways

• Adobe Photoshop is a powerful tool for professionals with a wide range of features.
• GIMP is a free and open-source alternative that offers many advanced features.
• Luminar is known for its AI-powered tools that make editing easier and faster.
• PhotoWorks is user-friendly and great for quick edits and enhancements.
• Microsoft Photos is perfect for basic editing and organizing your photo collection.

1. Adobe Photoshop

Adobe Photoshop is a top choice for photo editing on Windows 11. It’s packed with powerful tools for detailed image manipulation and design. Users can correct colors, crop images, and even overlay pictures with ease. The software also offers advanced features like layer masking, text and shape tools, gradients, and filters.

Pros of Adobe Photoshop include:

• A vast set of photo correction and manipulation tools
• A slick user interface with plenty of guidance
• Tools for mobile and web design
• Rich drawing and typography tools
• Powerful raw camera file tools
• Synced Libraries, Cloud Documents, and collaboration features

However, there are some cons:

• No perpetual license option
• Steep learning curve
• Runs many processes in the background

For those who need the best in image editing, Adobe Photoshop is the go-to software. It’s perfect for both professional designers and photographers.

If you’re using refurbished desktop computers, Adobe Photoshop will still run smoothly, making it a versatile choice. Pair it with high-quality computer monitors and a reliable computer mouse for the best experience.

2. GIMP

GIMP, short for GNU Image Manipulation Program, is a free and open-source photo editor that packs a punch. It’s a favorite among developers and hobbyists alike for its robust set of features that can rival even some paid programs. One of the standout features of GIMP is its extensive collection of plugins. Many of these come pre-installed, and you can download even more from the official repository.

GIMP is loaded with advanced tools like layer editing, masking, and color management. It also offers a variety of brushes such as Paintbrush, Pencil, Airbrush, and Ink, which are perfect for creating original artwork. If you’re into scripting, GIMP supports Python, Scheme, and other scripting languages to automate tasks and add new functionalities.

However, GIMP does have a steep learning curve, and the help resources are somewhat lacking. But if you’re willing to invest the time, you’ll find it to be an incredibly powerful tool for all your photo editing needs.

For those using refurbished computers, GIMP is a great choice because it runs smoothly on various operating systems including Windows, MacOS, and Linux.

3. Luminar

Luminar is a fantastic choice for anyone who wants to edit photos without getting bogged down by technical details. This software is powered by AI, making it super easy to use. It comes with a library of pre-made templates that you can apply with just one click. If you prefer to do things manually, you can adjust color balance, exposure, and even crop or rotate your images.

Key Features

• Artistic AI-powered tools
• User-friendly interface
• Library of built-in presets
• Reasonable price

However, keep in mind that Luminar needs a powerful PC to run smoothly. Also, its portrait editing tools are pretty basic.

Luminar’s AI-based toolkit and easy-to-use interface are designed to help you bring your creative ideas to life.

If you’re using a refurbished laptop, make sure it has enough power to handle this software. Luminar is perfect for both pros and amateurs who want to have fun enhancing their photos.

4. PhotoWorks

PhotoWorks is a versatile photo editor that’s perfect for both beginners and advanced users. This software for Windows 11 offers a wide range of tools to enhance your photos, whether you’re working on a single image or a batch of them. One of its standout features is its AI-powered content-aware enhancement, which makes automatic corrections to improve composition, colors, sharpness, and exposure.

With PhotoWorks, you can:

• Change the background of your photos without complicated selections
• Remove unwanted objects from your images
• Apply built-in filters and 3D LUTs for creative effects
• Perform batch processing to edit, embellish, or watermark multiple photos at once

PhotoWorks also supports over 450 RAW formats from the latest cameras, making it a great choice for photographers who shoot in RAW. The software runs smoothly even on older used desktops, so you don’t need a high-end computer to use it.

If you’re looking for an easy-to-use photo editor with powerful features, PhotoWorks is definitely worth a try. It offers a free trial, so you can test out its capabilities before committing to a purchase.

Whether you’re editing portraits, landscapes, or any other type of photo, PhotoWorks has the tools you need to make your images look their best. From basic adjustments like cropping and color correction to advanced features like tone mapping and curves, this software has it all. Plus, with video tips and tutorials, you’ll be able to master its features in no time.

5. Microsoft Photos

Microsoft Photos is a built-in photo editor for Windows 11 that offers a range of basic editing tools. It’s perfect for users who need simple and quick edits without downloading extra software.

Key Features

• AI-Powered Enhancements: The Windows 11 Photos app includes AI-powered features that can automatically enhance your photos, making them look their best with minimal effort.
• User-Friendly Interface: The app is designed to be easy to use, even for those who aren’t tech-savvy. You can quickly crop, rotate, and adjust the brightness and contrast of your images.
• Organize Your Photos: Microsoft Photos also helps you keep your photo collection organized. You can create albums, tag people, and even search for photos based on the content in them.

The Windows 11 Photos app is your built-in photo enhancer on Windows 11 devices. It boasts AI-powered features that take photo editing to a whole new level.

Pros and Cons

Microsoft Photos is a great option for those who need a simple, no-fuss photo editor. While it may not have all the advanced features of other programs, its ease of use and integration with Windows 11 make it a convenient choice for everyday photo editing needs.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right photo editing program for Windows 11 can be a bit overwhelming with so many options available. Whether you’re a beginner looking for something simple like Microsoft Photos or an experienced editor needing advanced features in GIMP, there’s something for everyone. Remember, the best software for you depends on your specific needs and how you plan to use it. So, take your time, try out a few, and find the one that feels just right for you. Happy editing!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Adobe Photoshop free to use?

No, Adobe Photoshop is not free. It requires a subscription to Adobe Creative Cloud.

Can I use GIMP on Windows 11?

Yes, GIMP is fully compatible with Windows 11.

Does Luminar offer a free trial?

Yes, Luminar offers a free trial so you can test its features before buying.

Is PhotoWorks easy for beginners?

Yes, PhotoWorks is designed to be user-friendly, making it great for beginners.

Can I edit videos with Microsoft Photos?

Yes, Microsoft Photos allows basic video editing along with photo editing.

Are there any free alternatives to Adobe Photoshop?

Yes, GIMP is a popular free alternative to Adobe Photoshop.

Does PhotoWorks work on low-end PCs?

Yes, PhotoWorks is optimized to run smoothly even on low-end PCs.

Is it possible to use Luminar without an internet connection?

Yes, once installed, Luminar can be used offline without any issues.