Photopea vs Lightroom: Which is Better?
Both Photopea and Lightroom are image editing tools, but they serve different purposes:
- Photopea is a free, web-based Photoshop alternative with layer-based editing.
- Lightroom is a professional photo editing & color grading tool designed for photographers.
1. Quick Comparison
| Feature | Photopea | Lightroom |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Advanced photo manipulation, graphic design | Photo editing, color grading, RAW editing |
| Editing Style | Layer-based (like Photoshop) | Non-destructive (adjustments & presets) |
| File Compatibility | PSD, AI, XD, PNG, JPG, SVG, RAW | RAW, DNG, JPG, TIFF, PNG |
| RAW Support | Limited | ✅ Yes, full RAW editing |
| Background Removal | ✅ Yes (manual & AI) | ❌ No |
| AI Features | Basic AI tools | Advanced AI masking, sky replacement |
| Preset & Filters | ❌ No presets, manual editing | ✅ Yes, tons of presets & LUTs |
| Best For | Designers, graphic artists, Photoshop users | Photographers, professional editors |
| Platform | Web-based (no installation) | Desktop & mobile app |
| Pricing | Free with ads, no premium version | Paid (Starts at $9.99/month) |
2. Detailed Feature Comparison
🖼 Photopea: Best for Graphic Design & Layer-Based Editing
- Works like Photoshop with layers, masks, and blending modes.
- Supports PSD, AI, and Sketch files, making it ideal for designers.
- Good for photo retouching, background removal, and basic color correction.
- Best for designers, web developers, and casual photo editors.
📷 Lightroom: Best for Professional Photo Editing & Color Grading
- Non-destructive editing (adjustments don’t alter the original file).
- RAW support for high-quality professional photography.
- Advanced AI masking (select sky, subject, and backgrounds easily).
- Preset-based workflow, ideal for photographers who edit in bulk.
- Best for professional photographers & color graders.
3. Which One Should You Choose?
✅ Choose Photopea if:
- You need Photoshop-like editing with layers and masks.
- You work with PSD, AI, or Sketch files.
- You want a free, browser-based Photoshop alternative.
✅ Choose Lightroom if:
- You need professional photo editing & RAW color grading.
- You work with bulk images and need presets & AI-based enhancements.
- You are a photographer looking for non-destructive editing.
4. Final Verdict
- Photopea is best for graphic design, retouching, and layer-based editing.
- Lightroom is best for professional photographers & color grading.
If you’re a designer or casual editor, go for Photopea. If you’re a photographer, Lightroom is the better choice! 🚀