Pixelmator Pro
Apple's Mac and iPad image editor with layers, RAW support and AI tools.
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- Alternatives ranked
- 6
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About Pixelmator Pro
Pixelmator Pro is a native image editor for Mac, now owned by Apple after it bought Pixelmator in 2024. It combines layered photo editing, retouching, painting, vector shapes and text, with non-destructive effects and machine-learning tools such as Super Resolution upscaling, background removal, automatic selections and Repair. It opens and saves PSD files with layers and handles RAW photos. The interface is cleaner and less intimidating than Photoshop, though it lacks some high-end features professionals rely on, and it is limited to Apple devices. Since early 2026 it is part of the Apple Creator Studio subscription, which also brings a touch-optimised iPad version and features such as the Warp tool; the Mac version is also still sold as a one-time purchase on the Mac App Store. A free trial of Creator Studio is available.
Best for: Mac users who want a capable layered editor without Adobe's subscription.
Pros and cons
What works
- Clean, native Mac interface that is quick to learn
- Machine-learning tools for upscaling, selections and repair
- One-time purchase option on the Mac App Store
Why people leave
- Apple devices only
- iPad version and some features need the Creator Studio subscription
- Missing some advanced Photoshop features for pro retouching
Top Pixelmator Pro alternatives
See all 6- 1
Adobe Photoshop62.6The full industry standard, if you need maximum features and cross-platform files.
- 2AcAcorn59.6
A smaller, cheaper Mac editor from an indie developer, bought once.
- 3
Photomator57.2Same team's photo-focused editor for Apple Photos libraries and batch editing.
- 4
GIMP55.3Free and open source, for Mac users who would rather not pay at all.
- 5
Photopea45.5Browser-based and free, handy for PSD editing on any machine.
Why people left Pixelmator Pro
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Pixelmator Pro: common questions
Is Pixelmator Pro free?
No, Pixelmator Pro is a paid product.
Is Pixelmator Pro open source?
No, Pixelmator Pro is not open source. Open-source alternatives include GIMP.
What platforms does Pixelmator Pro run on?
Pixelmator Pro is available for macOS and iOS.
What are the best alternatives to Pixelmator Pro?
The highest-ranked Pixelmator Pro alternatives right now are Adobe Photoshop, Acorn and Photomator. See the full ranked list for pricing, platforms and verified facts.