Photoshop

Reviewers say Photoshop is built for photographers, retouchers, and anyone doing precise photo manipulation or compositing work. The layer-based workflow and masking tools are particularly strong for detailed tasks like hair masking, retouching, and pen-tool selections.

Reviewers note that Photoshop is not optimized for freehand digital painting. Its brush and blending mechanics feel less natural than dedicated art software, so digital painters and illustrators often prefer a streamlined, art-first interface elsewhere.

Reviewers cite three recurring frustrations: the interface is complex and overwhelming, especially for beginners; the ongoing subscription cost is a lasting pain point; and unlocking precision features typically requires a graphic tablet, which adds expense and can cause wrist strain with mouse use over long sessions.

Reviewers disagree on this. Some say a tablet is essential to unlock precision features, while others say it depends on the type of editing you're doing. Mouse use is possible but reviewers report it can strain the wrist during extended work.

That depends on your goals. Reviewers say beginner tutorials make Photoshop sound approachable, but a professional artist calls it overcomplicated and unintuitive. Casual editors unwilling to invest time in a complex program may find simpler alternatives more practical.

One reviewer found a free browser-based alternative nearly matched Photoshop's core tools, while others treat Photoshop's depth as unmatched. Your choice depends on whether you need advanced compositing and retouching or just basic editing.