Photopea vs Pixlr E
Photopea and Pixlr E are the two best-known Photoshop-style editors that run in the browser. Both handle layers, masks and filters, but they differ in file support, interface and how they deal with ads and limits.
Photopea
A full Photoshop-style editor that runs in the browser. Opens PSD files too.
Pick Photopea if you work with PSD files or know Photoshop: it is the more complete editor and has no save limits. Pick Pixlr E if you want a friendlier interface for quick photo edits.
Side by side
| Photopea | Pixlr E | |
|---|---|---|
| Interface | Close copy of Photoshop | Simpler, modern layout |
| PSD files | Opens and saves PSD with layers, smart objects and text | Opens PSD, but layer support is more basic |
| Other formats | PSD, XCF, Sketch, XD, Figma, PDF, SVG and more | JPG, PNG, WebP, PSD, PXZ |
| Free limits | Unlimited, with ads | Free with ads and limited daily saves |
| AI tools | Magic replace and generative fill with limits | Several AI tools, most need credits |
| Category | Images | Images |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Account | Not required | Not required |
| Works locally | Yes | No |
| Open source | No | No |
| Mobile friendly | No | No |
Choose Photopea if
You open PSD files or already know Photoshop.
Choose Pixlr E if
You want a simpler editor for quick photo fixes.
Photopea pros and cons
- Closest free thing to Photoshop
- Opens real PSD files with layers
- Nothing to install, runs on any computer
- The free version shows ads on the side
- Very large files can be slow in the browser
Pixlr E pros and cons
- Familiar layout for Photoshop users
- Runs on any computer
- Good set of tools for free
- Free use shows ads and has a daily save limit
- Some AI features need credits
Photopea vs Pixlr E FAQ
Is Photopea better than Pixlr E?
Pick Photopea if you work with PSD files or know Photoshop: it is the more complete editor and has no save limits. Pick Pixlr E if you want a friendlier interface for quick photo edits.
Are Photopea and Pixlr E free?
Photopea is free to use with ads and needs no account. An optional paid plan removes the ads and adds more history steps. Pixlr E can be used for free without an account, with ads and a limited number of daily saves. Paid plans remove ads and add AI credits.
Do Photopea and Pixlr E need an account?
No. Photopea works without signing up, so you can open photopea.com and start using it right away. No. Pixlr E works without signing up, so you can open pixlr.com and start using it right away.