11 Best Photo Retouch Tools (2024) [FREE]

1. Introduction

The use of photographs has become mainstream in today’s digital age. They are essential in various sectors, including marketing, fashion, media, e-commerce, and personal use, particularly on social media platforms. Therefore, the presentation and quality of photos play a significant role in conveying the desired message or attraction. It is here that photo retouch tools come into play.

1.1 Importance of Photo Retouch tool

Photo retouch tools are invaluable assets to photographers, graphic designers, and all who interact with images on a daily basis in their work or personal life. These tools help in improving and enhancing the quality of a photograph, allowing for modification and correction of imperfections. They can correct exposure, sharpen details, adjust colors, remove undesired objects, and even modify facial features in photos, thus transforming an ordinary photo into an extraordinary one.

1.2 Objectives of this Comparison

The purpose of this comparison is to provide a detailed guide to various photo retouch tools available in the market today. We will discuss their essential features, discuss their advantages and disadvantages, and explore their usability and efficiency. This comparison aims to assist individuals, professions related to photography and graphics editing, and everyone interested in enhancing their photos, in selecting the best-suited photo retouch tool for their needs.

2. Adobe Photoshop

Adobe Photoshop is regarded as the gold standard in the field of image editing and photo retouching. Developed by Adobe Inc., Photoshop offers a vast range of tools and features for photo editing, graphic designing, and digital art. It is a comprehensive yet complex tool, revered among professionals for its power and versatility.

Adobe Photoshop provides a broad spectrum of capabilities, from basic photo retouching (like color correction, cropping, and blemish removal) to intricate graphic design tasks. As a pixel-based editor, Photoshop allows users to manipulate every pixel in an image, making it excel in tasks such as compositing and masking. Photoshop also supports a variety of plugins, expanding its capabilities even further, and offers extensive customization, making it a go-to choice for many professionals worldwide.

2.1 Pros

• Wide array of features: With a robust set of image editing and design tools, Photoshop can cater to a broad spectrum of creative needs.
• Sophisticated layering system: Photoshop uses a complex layering system that allows exceptional control over each element in a design.
• Supports third-party plugins: Photoshop can use third-party plugins to enhance functionality and streamline workflows.
• Powerful graphics handling: Photoshop delivers excellent performance when handling high-resolution images and multi-layered compositions.

2.2 Cons

• Steep learning curve: Given its complexity and wide range of tools, Photoshop may be challenging to learn for beginners.
• Expensive: Photoshop follows a subscription pricing model, which may not be affordable for everyone.
• Overly advanced for casual users: Photoshop’s complexity can be overkill for users with simple image editing needs.

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3. AI Face Retouch

AI Face Retouch is an innovative tool in the realm of photo retouching and enhancement. As the name suggests, this tool employs artificial intelligence (AI) to optimize face beautification and editing processes.

AI Face Retouch provides a unique set of facial retouch features that significantly simplify the photo-editing process. Its AI-driven engine effortlessly performs tasks such as skin smoothing, wrinkle reducing, teeth whitening, and red-eye removal. The tool is particularly suited for portrait photographers and those seeking to enhance selfies or headshots for personal or professional use.

3.1 Pros

• AI-powered: Leveraging AI technology makes the retouching process easy and efficient, significantly reducing time on manual edits.
• Face-specific features: The tool contains a suite of face-enhancement features such as smile deepening, eye brightening, and face slimming.
• User-friendly: It offers an intuitive interface and simple tools that don’t require an in-depth understanding of photo editing.

3.2 Cons

• Limited scope: The tool primarily focuses on facial retouch, and its features for general image enhancements are relatively limited.
• Dependency on Internet: As an online tool, it requires a steady Internet connection to operate.
• Manipulation effects: Overuse of the tool’s easy-to-apply filters and retouches can lead to overly manipulated and unnatural-looking images.

4. Fotor Photo Retouch

Fotor Photo Retouch is a versatile and user-friendly online tool that offers a range of features for photo editing and retouching. It is widely known for its simplicity and the excellent quality of its edits.

Fotor provides a multitude of functionalities, including basic edits like cropping, resizing, and exposure correction, as well as more advanced features such as HDR effects and beauty retouching. It is suitable for both beginners and more advanced users alike. The interface is very intuitive, making the experience of retouching images easy and enjoyable.

4.1 Pros

• Easy to use: The user interface is straightforward and intuitive, making it well-suited for beginners.
• Range of features: Fotor offers a wide array of tools for photo editing and retouching.
• Online-based: Being a web-based tool, it doesn’t require any downloads or installations.

4.2 Cons

• Internet dependency: As an online tool, editing is dependent on having a reliable internet connection.
• Quality restrictions: The free version compresses the output image, leading to a potential loss in picture quality.
• Limited advanced capabilities: For users with advanced editing needs, Fotor may fall short in some specialized functionalities.

5. BeFunky Touch Up Tools

BeFunky Touch Up Tools is an online photo editing and graphic design tool known for its simplicity. The application offers an impressive array of functionalities, including a dedicated suite of retouching tools.

BeFunky’s user-friendly interface and robust set of tools make it an ideal option for users with varying degrees of photo editing skills. The retouch tools cover all basic needs, such as blemish removal, skin smoothening, teeth whitening, and even makeup application. The platform also hosts an array of creative filters and graphical elements for a more artistic touch.

5.1 Pros

• Easy-to-use interface: The platform offers a user-friendly and intuitive environment, ideal for those starting their journey in photo editing.
• Versatile touch-up tools: BeFunky includes a wide array of touch-up features suited both for basic edits and more advanced retouches.
• Additional artistic features: Apart from standard retouch tools, the platform also provides creative filters and graphics, allowing for a unique artistic flair.

5.2 Cons

• Requires internet access: BeFunky is an online platform, and users will need a stable internet connection to use it.
• Watermark in free version: The free version of the tool watermarks images, requiring a paid upgrade for watermark removal.
• Limited advanced functionalities: While the basic retouch tools are robust, it may not cater to the needs of professionals seeking advanced editing options.

6. Affinity Photo

Affinity Photo is a powerful and comprehensive photo editing and retouching tool from Serif. This software offers a professional-level feature set aimed at advanced users and professionals.

Affinity Photo provides an extensive set of tools, including layer management, HDR merge, panorama stitching, advanced selection, and professional retouching tools. It supports raw editing and multi-layer composition and prides itself on its speed, power, and precision. This software stands as a robust alternative to other professional-level tools like Adobe Photoshop.

6.1 Pros

• Extensive feature set: Affinity Photo offers an array of advanced features comparable to those found in other professional photo-editing software.
• No subscription: Unlike many other professional tools, Affinity Photo is available for a one-time purchase, making it a cost-effective choice in the long run.
• Performance: Affinity Photo is optimized for speed and efficiency, making it a highly responsive tool.

6.2 Cons

• Steep learning curve: Affinity Photo’s extensive features and options can be overwhelming for beginners.
• Limited tutorials: While there are educational resources available, the amount is relatively limited compared to more mainstream tools like Photoshop.
• No built-in cataloging system: Unlike many other photo editors, Affinity Photo lacks a built-in library for managing images.

7. Pixlr Photo Editor

Pixlr Photo Editor is a well-regarded online platform known for its simplicity and ease of use in photo editing and retouching.

Pixlr provides a user-friendly interface with two tiers: Pixlr X for beginners and Pixlr E for more experienced users. Both tiers offer a range of features, including cropping, resizing, retouching, overlaying, and applying filters and effects. Pixlr aims at providing robust, easy-to-use, and accessible tools to users regardless of their expertise in photo editing.

7.1 Pros

• Free with useful features: Pixlr offers a decent range of editing tools and effects for free.
• Web-based: Being an online platform, it doesn’t require any installations and can be accessed across various devices.
• User-Friendly Interface: Both Pixlr X and Pixlr E are designed with user-friendly interfaces, making them approachable for users of all skill levels.

7.2 Cons

• Internet dependency: As an online tool, Pixlr requires a stable internet connection to work.
• Ads in the free version: Usage of the free version comes with display ads, which can be removed with a paid subscription.
• Advanced operations can be slow: For heavy editing and high-resolution images, operation speed can be slightly slow.

8. ON1 Photo RAW

ON1 Photo RAW is a feature-rich photo editing software aimed at professionals. It is a comprehensive tool with a wide array of RAW processing capabilities and powerful retouching options.

ON1 Photo RAW is designed to handle high-quality RAW images, offering professional-grade editing tools and potent effects that can transform your photos. Alongside its non-destructive workflow, it also offers capabilities like HDR merge, focus-stacking, and panorama stitching, masking and layering. Additionally, it showcases a built-in organizing system that aids in managing and finding images.

8.1 Pros

• No subscription: ON1 Photo RAW offers a one-time purchase, making it an attractive option for those averse to monthly or yearly subscriptions.
• All-in-one software: It combines photo organizing, editing, and RAW processing in one package, saving the need for multiple tools.
• Supports advanced features: The software offers advanced capabilities such as focus stacking and HDR creation, which can be difficult to find in other tools.

8.2 Cons

• Steep learning curve: With its extensive toolset and features, ON1 Photo RAW may be difficult for beginners to master.
• Requires a fast computer: Because of its powerful features, it may run slowly on older or less powerful computers.
• Confusing interface: Some users find ON1’s interface less intuitive compared to other photo editing software.

9. DxO PhotoLab

DxO PhotoLab is a professional-grade photo editing software known for its prowess in RAW processing and lens-based corrections.

DxO PhotoLab features an advanced suite of editing tools, including lens and camera specific corrections derived from in-lab testing. It also comes with DxO’s PRIME Denoising technology and proprietary Smart Lighting for exposure adjustments. PhotoLab is known for producing excellent image quality and is favored by experienced photographers seeking detailed control over their editing process.

9.1 Pros

• Advanced corrections: DxO PhotoLab excels in providing automatic, lens-specific corrections for aberrations and distortions.
• Superior noise reduction: The PRIME Denoising feature is praised for its proficiency in reducing noise in high ISO images.
• RAW processing: The application does an excellent job in RAW file processing, offering the potential for high-quality results.

9.2 Cons

• Pricey: Compared to some rivals, DxO Photo Lab may be considered a little expensive considering its assortment of tools.
• Complex interface: The comprehensive toolset that PhotoLab offers can make it overwhelming for novice users.
• No cataloging feature: Unlike some other contemporaries, it doesn’t have a built-in cataloging system for managing photos.

10. Photokit Photo Retouching

Photokit Photo Retouching is a dedicated plugin developed for Adobe Photoshop. It boasts a suite of automated tools and features, significantly speeding up the photo retouching process for professionals.

Photokit offers an assortment of features designed to streamline the photo retouching process. These include options for color correction, skin toning, shadow and highlight enhancements, and visual effect additions. The plugin is created to assist in managing repetitive tasks, thus allowing professionals more time to focus on creative edits.

10.1 Pros

• Automation: Photokit automates many common retouching tasks, saving considerable time for professionals.
• Integration: Seamlessly integrates with Adobe Photoshop, providing extended functionality within a familiar working environment.
• Customizability: Offers the flexibility to modify the application of effects and corrections according to individual project needs.

10.2 Cons

• Requires Photoshop: As a plugin, Photokit requires a separate purchase and installation of Adobe Photoshop to function.
• Learning Curve: Though designed to streamline tasks, the plugin has a variety of features that may take time for beginners to understand fully.
• Lack of standalone version: Unlike some retouching solutions, Photokit does not provide a standalone version, potentially limiting its accessibility for those who do not use Photoshop.

11. PicMonkey TouchUp

PicMonkey TouchUp is a feature-packed online photo editing tool with an emphasis on ease of use and a friendly user interface.

PicMonkey provides a variety of functions that cater to both basic and advanced image editing requirements. It boasts an extensive assortment of tools for touch-ups, including blemish removal, wrinkle smoothing, teeth whitening, and more. Coupled with an array of filters and effects, PicMonkey makes photo retouching both accessible and fun.

11.1 Pros

• User-friendly interface: PicMonkey provides a straightforward and intuitive interface, making it suitable for beginners.
• Good touch-up tools: The platform offers a comprehensive range of touch-up features that can enhance portrait photos impressively.
• Cloud-based: As an online tool, it allows users to edit photos from any device with an internet connection.

11.2 Cons

• Subscription needed: To access all features and remove ads, a subscription is required.
• Dependent on internet access: Being a web-based tool, it requires constant internet connectivity.
• Limited advanced settings: While good for beginners, the platform may not satisfy the needs of professional users seeking detailed control over adjustments.

12. Cutout.Pro Retouch Photo Online

Cutout.Pro is a highly efficient online photo retouching tool primarily aimed at removing unwanted objects and making selective adjustments in images.

Integral to Cutout.Pro is its specialization in decluttering images by efficiently removing unnecessary and unwanted elements. It also provides basic enhancements like color correction, brightness management, contrast adjustment, and more. Cutout.Pro’s intuitive and easy-to-use interface makes it a useful tool for quick retouching tasks.

12.1 Pros

• Great for removing distractions: Cutout.Pro excels in eliminating unwanted subjects from photos.
• User-friendly: The tool has an approachable design that is straightforward to navigate and use.
• Online-based: Being a cloud-based software, it is easily accessible on any device with an Internet connection.

12.2 Cons

• Limited advanced tools: While Cutout.Pro is good for basic retouching and object removal, it lacks advanced tools required for professional-grade edits.
• Requires good internet connection: As an online tool, a stable internet connection is necessary for smooth operation.
• Accuracy depends on the image: Depending on the complexity of the image, the automatic object removal may not always deliver perfect results.

13. Summary

After thoroughly discussing each photo retouch tool, we now have a clearer picture of what each platform has to offer. In this section, we will condense this information into a comprehensive comparison table and provide recommendations based on various user needs.

13.1 Overall Comparison Table

Tool	Features	Ease of Use	Price	Customer Support
Adobe Photoshop	Extensive professional-grade features	Steep learning curve	Subscription-based pricing	Extensive online resources and support
AI Face Retouch	AI-driven facial retouching tools	Highly user-friendly	Freemium with paid pro features	Email and online resources
Fotor Photo Retouch	Versatile photo editing and retouching features	Intuitive user interface	Freemium with paid premium features	Email support and online tutorials
BeFunky Touch Up Tools	Comprehensive touch-up tools with artistic filters	Beginner-friendly	Freemium with paid premium features	Email and chat support, with online resources
Affinity Photo	Professional level features and RAW processing	More suited to professionals	One-time purchase	Email and forum support, plus tutorials
Pixlr Photo Editor	Basic to intermediate level features	Beginner-friendly interface	Freemium with paid pro version	Email support and help center
ON1 Photo RAW	Feature-rich with specialization in RAW processing	Steep learning curve	One-time purchase	Extensive online resources and email support
DxO PhotoLab	Advanced corrections and RAW processing	Complex interface	Paid, with trial available	Email support and online tutorials
Photokit Photo Retouching	Photoshop plugin designed to automate retouching tasks	Requires Photoshop knowledge	One-time purchase	Email support
PicMonkey TouchUp	Online-based tool with basic to intermediate features	User-friendly	Freemium with paid subscription plans	Email and tutorial support
Cutout.Pro Retouch Photo Online	Object removal and basic image adjustments	User-friendly interface	Freemium with paid features	Email support and online resources

13.2 Recommended Tool Based on Various Needs

Based on the aforementioned analysis, here are some recommendations:

For professionals seeking advanced features and complete control, Adobe Photoshop and Affinity Photo stand out as comprehensive, professional-grade software.

Those seeking excellent facial retouch tools specifically should consider AI Face Retouch due to its AI-driven capabilities, or PicMonkey for its easy-to-use interface, especially useful for relative beginners.

If you’re looking to quickly and efficiently remove unwanted objects from photos, Cutout.Pro will meet your requirements excellently.

And for those who prefer a balance between advanced features and ease of use, Pixlr Photo Editor offers an excellent middle ground, combining a user-friendly interface with a decent range of photo editing tools.

14. Conclusion

As we conclude this comprehensive look into various photo retouch tools, it’s clear that the optimal tool depends heavily on the specific needs, skill level, and budget of the user.

14.1 Final Thoughts and Takeaways for Choosing a Photo Retouch Tool

For professionals and individuals seeking high-end features and complete control over their editing process, tools like Adobe Photoshop or Affinity Photo are the natural choice. These programs offer a comprehensive suite of tools that can handle any task, albeit at a steeper learning curve and price tag.

For users who prioritize simplicity and quick results, AI Face Retouch, BeFunky Touch Up Tools or PicMonkey could turn out to be ideal. Their user-friendly interfaces and useful editing capabilities make the process of photo retouching an easy task even for beginners.

For unique needs like automated retouching and removing unwanted objects from photos, tools like Photokit and Cutout.Pro offer specialized functions that can simplify and expedite your workflow.

Ultimately, it’s important to remember that the right photo retouch tool is the one that best fits your specific needs and preferences. We recommend taking advantage of free trials or versions of these tools to get a feel of their interface and capabilities before making a decision.

Author Introduction:

Vera Chen is a data recovery expert in DataNumen, which provides a wide range of products, including a powerful Word document repair tool.