11 Best Photo Filter Tools (2024) [FREE]

1. Introduction

1.1 Importance of Photo Filter tool

With the rise of digital media and the consequent revolution in the field of photography, photo filter tools have become an indispensable part of the image editing world. They afford professional photographers, graphic designers, and even casual users the ability to manipulate and improve their images, creating stunning visual effects that can significantly enhance the impact of their work. The right photo filter can transform a simple image into a powerful story-telling tool, making it not just a photographic rendition of a scene but a creative expression of an idea or emotion.

1.2 Objectives of this Comparison

The range of photo filter tools available in today’s market is wide and varied, with numerous options tailored to a multitude of user preferences and needs. However, such a wide pool of choices can often lead to confusion, making the act of choosing a suitable tool a daunting task. Therefore, the aim of this comparison is to provide a comprehensive review of the most popular and highly rated photo filter tools, outline their respective strengths and limitations, and aid readers in making an informed decision about which tool best fits their specific requirements and preferences. Let’s delve into the comparison, focusing on eleven featured tools with a brief introduction to each, followed by an enumeration of their pros and cons.

2. Adobe Photoshop

Adobe Photoshop, often simply known as Photoshop, is an industry-leading graphics editor developed and published by Adobe Inc. Primarily used for image editing, graphic design, and digital art, Photoshop offers an extensive range of image manipulation tools, including an impressive array of photo filters.

2.1 Pros

• Feature-rich: Adobe Photoshop provides a comprehensive collection of photo filters, giving users an incredible amount of control over the editing process.
• High-quality output: It offers a professional-grade editing experience, which translates to a superior quality of the final image.
• Regular updates and support: Being a product of a well-established company, Photoshop often comes with regular updates and excellent support.
• Plugin compatibility: Photoshop is compatible with a wide range of plugins, allowing users to extend its functionality to suit their specific needs.

2.2 Cons

• Steep learning curve: While Photoshop offers a high degree of control, mastering its plethora of tools and features may initially seem daunting for beginners.
• Cost: Compared to some other photo filter tools, Adobe Photoshop might be seen as pricey. It operates on a subscription model, which might not sit well with all users.
• System requirements: Photoshop needs a powerful system to run smoothly, which may pose challenges to users with low-specification devices.

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3. BeFunky Photo Effects

BeFunky is an all-in-one online creative platform featuring photo editing, collage making, and graphic design tools. The BeFunky Photo Effects tool provides an arsenal of photo filters and effects to help users transform their images seamlessly.

3.1 Pros

• User-friendly interface: BeFunky is designed with user convenience in mind. Its straightforward interface makes it quite easy for beginners to navigate and use effectively.
• Vast filter options: BeFunky boasts a wide range of filters and effects that allow users to be more creative with their image editing.
• No sign-up required: Users can start using BeFunky without having to register or sign up, which enhances ease of access.
• All-in-one platform: BeFunky covers not only image editing but also collage making and graphic design, making it a versatile tool.

3.2 Cons

• Limited free version: Some of the premium features in BeFunky are not accessible in the free version, limiting the tool’s full functionality.
• Ads in free version: The free version of the tool is ad-supported, which can be a minor annoyance for some users.
• Inability to save in high resolution: Unless users upgrade to the premium version, they are unable to save their edits in high resolution.

4. PhotoMania – Photo Effects

PhotoMania is a mobile-oriented photo editing tool that provides a collection of over 400 photo filters, effects, and frames. It is a user-friendly tool designed to transform your photos into engaging artworks right on your smartphone.

4.1 Pros

• Large variety of filters: PhotoMania offers a wide array of creative filters and effects that caters to a multitude of artistic visions.
• Simple user interface: The application is designed for a mobile interface, prioritizing simplicity and ease over complexity, which makes it user-friendly, even for novices.
• Direct social sharing: It integrates easily with social media networks, enabling instant sharing of edited pictures.
• No sign-up required: Users can start editing immediately, without the need for a lengthy signup process.

4.2 Cons

• Limited editing capabilities: PhotoMania is primarily focused on filters and effects, and as such, does not offer advanced editing capabilities.
• Ad-supported: The app contains ads, which can cause distractions to the user while editing.
• No desktop version: PhotoMania is a mobile-only application, which limits its accessibility for users who prefer editing on desktop platforms.

5. Fotor Photo Effects

Fotor is a comprehensive online photo editor and design maker that houses a powerful suite of photo effects and enhancement features. It provides simple yet effective editing tools for users to create eye-catching images.

5.1 Pros

• Variety of filters: With a wide range of preset photo effects and filters, Fotor allows users to easily give their images a distinct look and feel.
• User-friendly: Fotor strikes a nice balance between feature-rich editing functionalities and user-friendly interface.
• Multi-functionality: It goes beyond photo editing with design making capabilities, making it versatile for various creative needs.
• Mobile and desktop versions: Fotor is available both as a web-based tool and a mobile application, increasing its accessibility.

5.2 Cons

• Limited free features: Some of the more powerful features are only available in the paid version, limiting its capabilities for non-paying users.
• Ads in free version: The free version has ads, which could interfere with the user experience.
• Quality loss in saved images: Some users have reported a slight decrease in output image quality in the free version.

6. PhotoFiltre 7

PhotoFiltre 7 is a complete image retouching program that allows users to apply effects, filters and adjust settings in a more refined manner. It caters to users who are seeking a comprehensive, yet straightforward and easy-to-use photo editing platform.

6.1 Pros

• Easy to use: PhotoFiltre 7 is known for its user-friendly and intuitive interface, making the tool accessible even to novice users.
• Lightweight software: It is a relatively lightweight software compared to similar products, ensuring a smooth performance even on older or less powerful systems.
• Breadth of filters: The tool houses a wide range of filters and brushes, providing users with extensive possibilities for image manipulation.
• Free for personal use: PhotoFiltre 7 is free of charge for private, non-commercial, or educational use.

6.2 Cons

• Limited advanced features: While PhotoFiltre 7 is excellent for basic and intermediate image editing, it might not satisfy users who are looking for more advanced capabilities.
• No RAW file support: This software does not support RAW file format, which is a bit of a downside for professional photographers who shoot in RAW.
• Lacks the polish of more professional suites: Some users might notice it lacks the sleek interface and high-end functionality of more professional suite packages.

7. Pixlr Photo Editor

Pixlr Photo Editor is a web-based image editing tool hailed for its robust capabilities and user-friendly interface. Available in two versions, Pixlr X (for beginners) and Pixlr E (advanced), it allows users to undertake complex editing tasks directly from their web browsers.

7.1 Pros

• Greater accessibility: As a cloud-based tool, Pixlr allows users to edit their images from any device connected to the Internet, without the need for software installation.
• Two different versions: Catering to both beginners and advanced users, Pixlr provides two separate platforms, namely Pixlr X (intuitive, easy-to-use, basic features) and Pixlr E (complex editing tasks).
• Vast array of features: Pixlr provides a range of advanced features and effects to help enhance your images.
• Free version available: With a stripped-down but still functional model, Pixlr offers editing services free of charge.

7.2 Cons

• Requires internet connection: Since Pixlr is a web-based editor, an Internet connection is necessary at all times to access its features.
• Ads in free version: Ads are integrated in the free version which can disrupt the user’s workflow and overall experience.
• Less powerful than desktop software: Although Pixlr’s capabilities are impressive for a web-based editor, it still falls behind full-fledged desktop software in terms of raw power and capabilities.

8. PhotoPad

PhotoPad by NCH Software is a user-friendly desktop photo editing tool designed for professional and home use. It offers a comprehensive suite of editing tools, allowing users to apply effects, adjust color balance, and more.

8.1 Pros

• Wide range of features: PhotoPad offers a multitude of photo editing tools, allowing users to perform edits from basic crops to complex effects application.
• User-friendly: With its intuitive interface, PhotoPad is easy to navigate for users of all skill levels.
• Collage and panorama making: Beyond ordinary photo editing, PhotoPad also has features for creating collages and panoramas.
• Desktop software: Being a desktop application, it provides a smooth, ad-free experience and does not require an internet connection to operate.

8.2 Cons

• Limited free version: The free version of PhotoPad has fewer features, limiting the user experience unless you purchase the full version.
• Cluttered interface: Though robust, the interface can feel a bit overwhelming due to the large number of options and icons.
• Occasional lags: Some users have reported minor lags and slow processing times with this software.

9. Icecream Photo Editor

Icecream Photo Editor is a user-friendly and versatile image editing application. It allows users to add a creative touch to their pictures, offering a variety of tools including filters, effects, frames, stickers, and more.

9.1 Pros

• Intuitive user interface: Icecream Photo Editor has a clean, easy-to-understand interface, making photo editing a breeze, even for beginners.
• Versatility: The tool offers a range of editing features like cropping, applying filters and effects, adding text, and more.
• Picture collage: The software allows creating photo collages, allowing multiple photos to be arranged in one frame.
• Free to use: The program is available for free, making it accessible for users with budget constraints.

9.2 Cons

• Limited advanced features: The tool lacks some of the advanced features found in its more robust, professional counterparts.
• Image size limitations: There are some reports of the tool failing to properly handle very large images.
• No support for RAW files: Much like other simple photo editors, Icecream does not support editing of RAW file format.

10. Photo Pos Pro

Photo Pos Pro is a feature-rich photo editing software that provides a variety of advanced tools and functionalities. It caters to a wide spectrum of users – from beginners to professionals, offering intuitive interfaces for different skill levels.

10.1 Pros

• Provides two modes: Photo Pos Pro caters to users of all skill levels by offering two main workspaces: a simpler one for beginners and a more elaborate one for professional users.
• Comprehensive feature set: This software provides a wide range of features and editing tools, such as masks, layers, curves, and levels.
• Supports RAW files: It supports RAW files, which is a significant advantage for professional photographers.
• Free to use: Despite its advanced features, Photo Pos Pro is available for free.

10.2 Cons

• Steep learning curve: With its diverse features, the software may seem overwhelming to novice users, who would need time to learn how to use it effectively.
• Limited free features: Some premium features are only available in the paid version.
• Occasional performance issues: Users have reported occasional software crashes and slow performance, particularly with more complex editing tasks.

11. Picsart Photo Effects

Picsart Photo Effects is part of the Picsart suite, a versatile photo editing tool that is designed for mobile platforms but also available for desktop users. With a bent towards social sharing, it comes with a powerful set of features for applying effects, filters, and creating digital art.

11.1 Pros

• Wide range of features: Picsart packs a robust set of editing tools and effects, allowing users flexibly design unique and creative images.
• Socially integrated: It comes with built-in social functions, allowing users to follow other artists, participate in weekly contests, and share their work with a larger community.
• Mobile-first design: The tool is designed with mobile users in mind, making it a great option for smartphone photographers.
• Active developer community: Picsart has an invested developer community, which means that it is continuously updated and innovated upon.

11.2 Cons

• Ad-supported free version: The free version of the app supports ads, which could be distracting for users.
• In-app purchases: Some features and assets are locked behind a paywall, available only through in-app purchases.
• Can be overwhelming: With numerous features, stickers, and options, the app interface can be a bit overwhelming for beginners.

12. Canva Photo Effects

Known primarily for its user-friendly design tools, Canva also offers an impressive suite of photo editing features. These include various photo effects that allow users to enhance their images, making them more visually impactful.

12.1 Pros

• Ease-of-use: Canva’s interface is very user-friendly, allowing even beginners to navigate easily and perform edits without difficulty.
• Design-oriented: Because Canva is primarily a design tool, it can be ideal for users looking to create dynamic visuals and social media graphics.
• Useful templates: Canva offers a large library of professionally-designed templates that can be utilized in photo editing.
• Sharing capabilities: Canva offers direct sharing options to social media platforms, making the process of online sharing easier for users.

12.2 Cons

• Limited photo editing capabilities: While Canva is great for basic editing and design, it falls short compared to dedicated image editing software in terms of advanced features.
• Premium features: Some of Canva’s functionalities and elements are only available in the paid version, which may be a drawback for users on a budget.
• Internet-dependent: As a web-based tool, Canva requires a consistent internet connection to function.

13. Summary

13.1 Overall Comparison Table

Tool	Features	Ease of Use	Price	Customer Support
Adobe Photoshop	Extensive and high-quality	Intermediate to advanced	Subscription-based	Comprehensive support and frequent updates
BeFunky Photo Effects	Variety of filters and effects	Beginner-friendly	Free with premium options	Email and FAQ support
PhotoMania – Photo Effects	Decent variety of filters	Easy and intuitive	Free	Basic app support
Fotor Photo Effects	Wide array of filters and design options	Beginner-friendly interface	Free with premium options	Email support and FAQ
PhotoFiltre 7	Plenty of filters and brushes	Easy to use desktop software	Free for personal use	Limited email support
Pixlr Photo Editor	Advanced features available	Easy for Pixlr X, advanced for Pixlr E	Free with premium options	Community forum and email support
PhotoPad	Essential editing tools and features	Intuitive	Free with premium options	Email and live chat
Icecream Photo Editor	Basic editing features with filters and effects	Fairly easy	Free	Email support
Photo Pos Pro	Multitude of features	Easy for beginners, advanced mode available	Free with premium options	FAQ, tutorials and email support
Picsart Photo Effects	Large array of features and effects	Intermediate	Free with premium options	Email and user guide
Canva Photo Effects	Design-oriented tools and features	Easy to use	Free with premium options	Help centre and email support

13.2 Recommended Tool Based on Various Needs

For professionals seeking extensive features and don’t mind a learning curve, Adobe Photoshop remains the top choice. For beginners looking for ease of use with an intuitive interface, BeFunky and Fotor offer great options. For mobile users who need on-the-go editing, Picsart and PhotoMania are highly recommended. Users aiming for more design-focused editing will find Canva satisfying. To experience advanced editing without spending much, Photo Pos Pro or Pixlr could be ideal.

14. Conclusion

14.1 Final Thoughts and Takeaways for Choosing a Photo Filter Tool

Choosing the right photo filter tool depends primarily on your specific needs and level of expertise. Tools like Adobe Photoshop offer extensive capabilities and are preferred by professionals, however, they also carry a steeper learning curve and a higher cost. Beginners or casual users might be better served by tools like BeFunky and Fotor, which offer simplicity and user-friendly interfaces while still covering a wide range of features.

If quick, on-the-go edits are what you need, mobile-centric tools like PhotoMania and Picsart are great picks. Moreover, those looking for a balance between photo editing and graphic design could find a tool like Canva very compelling. For users on a tight budget, robust free alternatives, such as Photo Pos Pro or Pixlr, could offer immense value.

Ultimately, the best photo filter tool is one that aligns with your specific requirements, user proficiency, and budget. We hope this analysis helps you in narrowing down your options and making an informed choice. Keep exploring!

Author Introduction:

Vera Chen is a data recovery expert in DataNumen, which provides a wide range of products, including a wonder tool to repair corrupt XLSX files.