Getting to Know the Complete Guide to Using Photopea: A Free Photoshop Alternative

Ardian Fazri
Ardian Fazri
Feb 21, 2026

What is Photopea?

Photopea is an online image editing application that can be used for free through a web browser. With an interface and features that resemble Adobe Photoshop, Photopea has become a popular alternative for users who need professional image editing tools without having to pay for license fees.

Photopea supports various file formats, such as PSD, XCF, Sketch, AI, and even popular formats like PNG, JPG, and SVG. This application is perfect for photographers, graphic designers, or anyone who needs a versatile image editing tool.


Advantages of Photopea

Free and Online

No installation or license is required. You only need a web browser to access Photopea at www.photopea.com.

Photoshop-Like Interface

For Photoshop users, the transition to Photopea is very easy because the interface is almost identical.

Supports Many File Formats

Photopea can open PSD (Photoshop), XCF (GIMP), AI (Adobe Illustrator), and other image formats.

Multiplatform

It can be accessed on Windows, macOS, Linux, and even mobile devices like Android and iOS.

Browser Extension

You can save Photopea as a Progressive Web App (PWA) for an experience similar to a desktop application.


Main Features of Photopea

Layers and Masking

Photopea supports layer-based editing, including adjustment layers, masking, and blending modes.

Selection Tools

Various selection tools are available, such as Marquee, Lasso, and Magic Wand, similar to Photoshop.

Brush and Clone Stamp

Photopea provides brush tools, clone stamping, and eraser tools for detailed editing.

Text Tool

Add text to your images with options for font settings, size, color, and text effects.

Filters and Adjustments

Various filters and effects are available, such as Gaussian Blur, Sharpen, Brightness/Contrast, and Hue/Saturation.

Smart Objects

Like Photoshop, Photopea supports Smart Objects for non-destructive element editing.


How to Use Photopea

Access Photopea

Open your browser and visit www.photopea.com. Wait for the interface to open.

Opening Files

  • Click File > Open to open a file from your computer.
  • You can also drag files directly into the Photopea window.

Editing Images

  • Use the Toolbar on the left side to select tools like the Brush, Move Tool, or Crop.
  • Use the Layer Panel on the right side to manage layers.

Saving Files

  • Click File > Export As to save the file in formats such as PNG, JPG, or PSD.

Comparison of Photopea vs. Photoshop

Feature Photopea Adobe Photoshop
Price Free (with ads) Monthly subscription
Installation Not required (online) Must be installed
File Formats PSD, AI, XCF, etc. PSD, AI, etc.
Performance Depends on the browser Very stable on desktop
Plugins Not supported Supports plugins

Tips for Using Photopea to the Max

Use Keyboard Shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts in Photopea are almost the same as Photoshop, such as:

  • Ctrl + Z for undo
  • Ctrl + T for transform
  • Ctrl + Shift + S for save as

Save Projects in PSD Format

If you want to continue editing later, save your project as a PSD so that all layers and elements remain intact.

Learn Official Tutorials

Photopea provides documentation and official tutorials on its site to make it easier for beginners.

Optimize Your Browser

Make sure your browser is updated to the latest version for better performance.


Conclusion

Photopea is the perfect solution for anyone who needs an image editing tool without additional costs. With advanced features and wide file format compatibility, Photopea proves that a free application can offer a professional-grade experience.

If you are looking for a Photoshop alternative that is lightweight, easy to access, and requires no installation, Photopea is the right choice.

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