Best Free Photoshop Alternatives with AI Features

Are you looking for powerful yet free alternatives to Adobe Photoshop that come with AI-powered tools? Whether you are a graphic designer, digital artist, or casual editor, several free software options can provide advanced editing capabilities without the hefty price tag. Below, we explore some of the best free Photoshop alternatives that leverage AI for tasks like image enhancement, background removal, and object selection.

1. GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program)

GIMP is one of the most popular free alternatives to Photoshop. While it may not have built-in AI features, you can enhance its capabilities through plugins such as G’MIC, which offers AI-based filters and image processing tools. GIMP is open-source and supports various file formats, making it a great option for those seeking a professional-level editing tool at no cost.

2. Krita

Krita is an excellent free tool, primarily geared toward digital artists and illustrators. It features advanced brush engines and layer management. One of the standout aspects of Krita is that it can run locally or on a remote server, making it a flexible choice for different workflows. Although Krita does not come with extensive AI-powered features out of the box, it has a growing ecosystem of plugins that introduce automation and smart tools to streamline the creative process.

3. Photopea

Photopea is a web-based Photoshop alternative that offers AI-powered features like background removal and content-aware fill. It supports PSD files, making it easy to switch from Photoshop. Since it runs entirely in the browser, there’s no need for installation, and it works across different operating systems.

4. Fotor

Fotor is an AI-powered online photo editor that simplifies complex editing tasks. It offers features such as automatic retouching, AI-powered enhancements, and background removal. While Fotor has a premium tier, many of its AI-driven tools are available for free.

5. Pixlr

Pixlr is another great browser-based photo editor that integrates AI tools like auto-enhancement and background removal. Its intuitive interface makes it easy for beginners to get started, while its advanced features cater to professional users as well.

Generative AI |What is Generative AI?

Generative AI (Artificial Intelligence) refers to a category of AI models designed to create new content, such as images, text, music, and videos. Unlike traditional AI, which mainly analyzes and classifies existing data, generative AI produces entirely new outputs based on learned patterns.

How Generative AI Works

Generative AI uses deep learning models—especially neural networks—to process vast amounts of data and generate new, realistic content. Some of the core technologies behind generative AI include:

• Neural Networks: AI models inspired by the human brain, capable of recognizing patterns and generating new data.
• Transformer Models (e.g., GPT, BERT): These models predict and generate coherent text, making tools like ChatGPT possible.
• Diffusion Models (e.g., Stable Diffusion, DALL·E): AI models that generate high-quality images by refining noise into detailed pictures.
• GANs (Generative Adversarial Networks): AI models that pit two neural networks against each other to create highly realistic content.

Examples of Generative AI Applications

1. Text Generation: AI chatbots like ChatGPT generate human-like responses.
2. Image Generation: Tools like Stable Diffusion and DALL·E create AI-generated artwork.
3. Music Composition: AI generates new musical pieces based on existing styles.
4. Video Creation: AI can generate or modify video content automatically.
5. Code Generation: AI-powered coding assistants like GitHub Copilot suggest and generate programming code.

Is Generative AI Free to Use?

Some generative AI models are free and open-source, like Stable Diffusion and Krita AI Diffusion, which allow you to generate images locally. Others, like DALL·E and MidJourney, operate on a paid or subscription basis, especially for higher-quality outputs.

Frequently asked questions about Free Adobe Photoshop Replacements

1. Can images created with these softwares be used commercially?

Yes, images generated using Krita and AI plug-ins like Stable Diffusion can be used commercially. However, if you use third-party AI models or online services, make sure to check their specific licensing terms to ensure compliance.

2. Is there a plug-in that allows using an online service to generate pictures?

Yes, Krita supports AI-powered image generation through plug-ins. Some services provide cloud-based AI image generation, but many require a subscription or payment. Krita also has an online GPU section for AI processing, which is a paid feature. Alternatively, you can use Google Colab to access free or paid cloud-based GPU resources.

3. How can I run Stable Diffusion as a local API in Krita?

To run Stable Diffusion locally in Krita as an API, follow these steps:

• Install Stable Diffusion WebUI (Automatic1111 or InvokeAI) on your computer.
• Ensure you have a compatible GPU (NVIDIA with at least 8GB VRAM is recommended).
• Download the krita_ai_diffusion plug-in and import it into Krita.
• Configure the API settings in Krita to point to your local Stable Diffusion server.
• Start generating images locally without an internet connection.

4. How do I upload or save krita_ai_diffusion-1.19.0?

To install and use the krita_ai_diffusion-1.19.0 plug-in:

• Download the plug-in file (typically a ZIP or Python file).
• Open Krita and navigate to Settings > Manage Resources.
• Click Import Bundles or Plug-ins, select the downloaded file, and import it.
• Restart Krita, and the AI plug-in should be available under the appropriate menu.

5. Is there a free or open-source PDF editor like Foxit Phantom PDF or Adobe Acrobat?

Yes, Okular is a free and open-source PDF editor that can be used as an alternative to paid software like Foxit Phantom PDF or Adobe Acrobat. It supports annotations, digital signatures, and form-filling, making it a great option for document handling without cost.

6. How do I add tokens in Krita AI Diffusion?

Tokens are used to guide the AI model when generating images. To add tokens:

• Open the AI plug-in in Krita.
• Locate the Prompt Box where you describe the image you want to generate.
• Add relevant keywords, separated by commas (e.g., “cyberpunk, futuristic city, high detail”).
• Advanced users can experiment with token weights (e.g., “portrait, fantasy style:1.2” to emphasize a particular element).

7. Does Krita support both local and remote server-based AI image generation?

Yes, Krita allows AI-based image generation using both local models (such as a locally installed Stable Diffusion) and remote servers (such as online cloud-based AI services). Local AI generation is free once set up, but remote server processing usually requires payment for GPU usage.

8. Can I use Stable Diffusion in Krita without an internet connection?

Yes, once you have downloaded and installed Stable Diffusion locally, you can generate AI images entirely offline. This requires:

• A GPU with at least 8GB VRAM for optimal performance.
• The krita_ai_diffusion plug-in installed in Krita.
• Pre-downloaded AI models such as Stable Diffusion 1.5 or 2.1.

9. What are the hardware requirements for running Stable Diffusion locally in Krita?

Running AI-powered image generation locally requires a powerful setup:

• GPU: At least 8GB VRAM (NVIDIA recommended for CUDA acceleration).
• RAM: Minimum 16GB for smooth performance.
• Storage: 10GB+ for AI models and plug-ins.
• Operating System: Windows, macOS, or Linux with Python installed.
• Software: Installed Stable Diffusion WebUI and Krita plug-in for integration.

10. Are there any free GPU options for AI image generation in Krita?

Yes, you can use Google Colab’s free GPU access, though it has session limits and restrictions. Google Colab Pro offers better performance for a monthly fee. There are also some experimental free AI image generators online, but they may have lower quality outputs or daily limits.

11. Does Krita support other AI-powered image generation tools besides Stable Diffusion?

Yes, besides Stable Diffusion, Krita supports AI tools such as:

• DeepDream (for dream-like AI effects).
• DALL·E (external API-based AI image generation).
• Runway ML (video and image AI generation).
  While some of these require external accounts or API access, they can integrate with Krita for enhanced creative workflows.

12. How do I install a Stable Diffusion plug-in in Krita?

• Download the plug-in (krita_ai_diffusion or other AI-based Krita extensions).
• Open Krita, go to Settings > Manage Resources > Import Plug-in.
• Select the downloaded plug-in file and click Apply.
• Restart Krita, and the plug-in should now be available under Tools > Scripts > AI Diffusion.

13. Can I train my own AI model for use in Krita?

Yes, but it requires advanced technical knowledge. To train your own model:

• Use DreamBooth or LoRA (Low-Rank Adaptation) to fine-tune Stable Diffusion.
• You’ll need a dataset of images for training.
• Training can be done on Google Colab, local GPUs, or cloud AI services.
• Once trained, the model file (.ckpt or .safetensors) can be loaded into Krita’s Stable Diffusion plug-in.

14. Does Krita provide AI inpainting and upscaling features?

Yes, Krita’s AI plug-ins support inpainting (AI-powered image restoration) and upscaling (increasing resolution without losing detail). These features allow artists to edit specific parts of an image using AI or enhance low-resolution images.

15. What file formats does Krita support for exporting AI-generated images?

Krita supports multiple formats for exporting images, including:

• PNG (best for lossless quality).
• JPEG (smaller file size, but some compression loss).
• PSD (Photoshop format for layer retention).
• TIFF, WEBP, GIF, BMP (various use cases).
  After generating an image with AI, you can export it in the format that best suits your needs.

Conclusion

If you’re searching for a free alternative to Photoshop with AI-powered features, these options offer powerful tools without the cost. GIMP and Krita are excellent open-source solutions, while Photopea, Fotor, and Pixlr provide AI-driven functionalities that enhance the editing experience. Whether you need a local, remote, or web-based solution, there’s a free tool to fit your needs.