Which software is the best for image editing? And does it really have to be Photoshop? We tested programs and revealed which alternatives are worth considering. We also show you how to make the best out of them and creating great images of the casino online.
For many photographers, image editing means “Photoshopping,” but not everyone is comfortable with the market leader, Adobe Photoshop CC. Fortunately, there are alternatives—not only for beginners, but also for professionals. But how good are they?
A lot of fine-tuning, significantly more AI functions, and ultimately a clear lead over the competition: Adobe Photoshop CC 2025 confidently defends its number one spot in the rankings and remains the first choice for photographers who want to edit their images with particular care and precision, combined with powerful image management in Lightroom. The current version, Photoshop CC 2025, is noticeably easier to use than older versions. However, even those who only want to use a fraction of the huge range of functions should expect a certain learning curve.
The Programs
In terms of functionality, Ashampoo Photo Commander doesn’t offer nearly as much as its competitors. However, those who limit themselves to minor corrections and sprucing up photos will have no trouble getting by. It’s easy to use. Some things are easier to do than with the competition, such as creating a panorama or a slideshow.
All image editing programs undergo extensive testing. It starts with installation: for example, the testers check how easy it is to set up the software on a PC or notebook and whether registration with the manufacturer is required. The testers then take a detailed look at how the programs are operated: how clear is the program interface, how quickly can basic functions be found? How good are the wizards that guide users and simplify important functions? The testers also examine the options offered by the programs’ selection and editing tools.
After testing the installation and operation, it’s time to get down to business. The testers now examine the range of functions, divided into four categories: managing photos, enhancing photos, editing photos, and sharing photos. In the photo management category, for example, they check whether the image editing programs can display photos in folders or organize selected images in a library. In the photo enhancement category, they examine, among other things, the options they offer for “developing” photos in RAW format and adjusting brightness or contrast.
Under “Edit photos,” functions such as merging multiple photos into a panorama or working with layers (e.g., to combine several shots into one image) are tested and evaluated. In the “Share photos” section, for example, we evaluate how easy it is to compile photos into a slideshow and what options the programs offer for printing photos. Last but not least, the help functions are examined: Is there a detailed help function? Does the manufacturer provide video tutorials and free support for users on the Internet?
Adobe Photoshop Elements 2025 remains a good choice for beginners—if they can accept the three-year limited usage period. Image editing offers many possibilities for improving photos and redesigning images. Elements is no competition for the professional version of Photoshop CC—its range of functions is too limited for that. However, Elements scores points with a large selection of wizards and automatic functions.
Ashampoo Photo Commander is only available in one version (18), while version 17 is available for free from COMPUTER BILD. Other manufacturers offer their image editing programs in a sometimes confusing variety of versions: for purchase or as a subscription, with full or limited functionality. Here is a brief overview:
- ACDSee Photo Studio: Available in three purchase variants (Home, Pro, and Ultimate) and as a subscription for Personal (one user) or Home Plan (five users).
- Adobe Photoshop CC: Several subscriptions are available here, with different amounts of cloud storage (20 GB or 1 TB), with or without Lightroom, or as part of Creative Cloud.
- Adobe Photoshop Elements 2025: Available individually or, for a small additional charge, in a set with the video editing software Premiere Elements as a 3-year subscription.
- Capture One Pro: Available as a subscription (including updates) or as a purchase option (without major updates).
- Corel PaintShop Pro: The standard version is slightly cheaper than the Ultimate version tested.
- Cyberlink PhotoDirector: Available as PhotoDirector with a version number and, as tested, as a subscription with additional features as PhotoDirector 365.
- DxO PhotoLab 8: In addition to the Elite version tested, it is also available in an Essential version. However, the latter lacks the DeepPrime feature for editing RAW files.
