Paint.NET vs Pixelmator: Which One Is Better in 2024?

Paint.NET and Pixelmator are essential tools for businesses and designers, offering cost-effective and feature-rich solutions for image editing. We'll compare Paint.NET and Pixelmator to determine which one excels in usability, features, and overall value for different user needs.

A Quick Overview of Paint.NET and Pixelmator

What is Paint.NET?

Paint.NET develops and maintains free image and photo editing software for Windows PCs. The software features an intuitive user interface, support for layers, unlimited undo, special effects, and a variety of powerful tools.

One unique feature of Paint.NET is its origin as a college senior design project mentored by Microsoft, which sets it apart from competitors. Additionally, the software has an active online community that offers help, tutorials, and plugins, enhancing its usability for consumers.

What is Pixelmator?

Pixelmator specializes in creating image editing software. Their flagship product, Pixelmator Pro, is designed exclusively for Mac and leverages advanced Mac technologies like Metal, Core Image, and Core ML.

Pixelmator Pro offers AI-powered tools like background masks and automatic photo enhancements. The software also includes machine learning-based adjustments, providing users with intelligent and efficient editing options that set it apart from competitors.

Features of Paint.NET and Pixelmator

Similarities

Paint.NET and Pixelmator share several key features that make them both powerful tools for image editing. Despite being designed for different operating systems, they offer similar functionalities that cater to a wide range of users.

• Layer-Based Editing: Both Paint.NET and Pixelmator support layers, allowing users to work on different elements of an image separately.
• Selection Tools: Each software provides a variety of selection tools to make precise edits to specific parts of an image.
• Effects and Filters: Both include a range of effects and filters to enhance images creatively.
• User-Friendly Interface: Designed to be accessible to users of all skill levels, from beginners to professionals.
• Community and Support: Both have active online communities that offer tutorials and plugins to extend the software's capabilities.

Differences

While both Paint.NET and Pixelmator offer robust image editing capabilities, they cater to different user needs with distinct features. Here are the key differences:

• AI-Powered Tools: Pixelmator includes AI-powered features like background masks and automatic photo enhancements, which are not available in Paint.NET.
• Vector Graphics: Pixelmator supports vector masks and advanced vector tools, whereas Paint.NET focuses more on raster image editing.
• RAW Photo Support: Pixelmator offers full RAW photo support, making it ideal for professional photographers. Paint.NET does not natively support RAW files.
• Machine Learning Enhancements: Pixelmator leverages machine learning for features like ML Enhance and Super Resolution, which are absent in Paint.NET.
• Plugins: Paint.NET has an active community that provides a variety of plugins to extend its functionality, while Pixelmator does not emphasize plugin support.

User Interface and Usability

Paint.NET's user interface is straightforward, featuring a simple layout that prioritizes ease of use. The software's design is intuitive, making it accessible for beginners. However, the lack of advanced customization options may limit its appeal to professional users. The user experience is bolstered by an active online community that provides tutorials and plugins, enhancing the software's overall usability.

Pixelmator Pro offers a more sophisticated user interface, with customizable workspaces and a clean, organized layout. The software integrates advanced Mac technologies, providing a seamless experience for Mac users. While the interface is user-friendly, the abundance of features may overwhelm new users. The overall usability is high, thanks to AI-powered tools and machine learning enhancements.

Pixelmator Pro has a better user interface and usability over Paint.NET.

Collaboration

Paint.NET does not offer built-in collaboration features, making it challenging for teams to work together directly within the software. Users rely on the active online community for support, tutorials, and plugins, which can indirectly aid collaboration by sharing knowledge and resources. However, this approach lacks the immediacy and integration of real-time collaborative tools.

Pixelmator also lacks explicit collaboration tools like real-time co-editing. It does, however, support file sharing through iCloud Drive and compatibility with various file formats, which can facilitate teamwork. Users can share templates and presets, but the absence of direct collaboration features means teams must find alternative ways to work together.

Neither Paint.NET nor Pixelmator excels in collaboration, but Pixelmator's file-sharing capabilities offer a slight edge.

Paint.NET and Pixelmator Pricing

Paint.NET offers a free classic desktop version, with an option to purchase the Windows Store version for added benefits. Users can also support the software through donations, typically suggested at $10 or $15. This flexible pricing model makes Paint.NET accessible to a wide range of users.

Pixelmator Pro is available for a one-time fee of $49.99 on the Mac App Store. This pricing reflects its advanced features and integration with Mac technologies. While it is a higher upfront cost compared to Paint.NET, it offers a comprehensive suite of tools for professional use.

Paint.NET provides a more budget-friendly option, especially for casual users, while Pixelmator Pro's pricing is justified by its advanced capabilities.

Comparing Paint.NET and Pixelmator to Piktochart

Piktochart transforms complex ideas into captivating visuals that inform and engage your audience. With Piktochart AI, you can create stunning infographics, reports, and presentations in seconds, perfectly aligned with your brand. No design experience required.

Pros of Piktochart

• Ease of Use: Piktochart's intuitive interface makes it accessible for users of all skill levels, eliminating the need for extensive design experience.
• Variety of Templates: The platform offers a wide range of customizable templates for infographics, presentations, flyers, posters, and reports, catering to diverse visual communication needs.
• Content Repurposing: Piktochart allows users to easily repurpose long videos into bite-sized clips, complete with automatic subtitle addition and customization for social media.
• Comprehensive Toolset: As an all-in-one visual communication tool, Piktochart provides everything professionals need to create engaging visual content regularly.
• User-Centric Development: Continuous improvements and new features are based on active user feedback, ensuring the platform evolves to meet user needs effectively.

Piktochart's Pricing

• Free: $0 (Free forever)
• Pro:
  • $29 per member/month (billed monthly)
  • $14 per member/month (billed annually, save 52%)
• Business:
  • $49 per member/month (billed monthly)
  • $24 per member/month (billed annually, save 52%)
• Enterprise: Custom Pricing (Contact for details)

What Are Others Saying?

Paint.NET Reviews

Overall, users have given Paint.NET a rating of 4.1 out of 5. While many appreciate its ease of use and free access, frustrations include frequent crashes and lack of customer support.

• "This program is GARBAGE. EVERY single time I try saving my edited file it crashes." - David BeCraft, 1/5
• "Crashes when saving edited files or making unusual edits." - Anonymous, 2/5
• "Lack of customer support and missing features like 3D Viewer and Texture editor." - John Doe, 3/5

Find more of Paint.NET reviews on G2!

Pixelmator Reviews

Pixelmator has received an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5. Users appreciate its photo editing capabilities but find its design limitations and cost frustrating.

• "Good, with limitations." - Brian B., 3/5
• "A simplified Photoshop app for those that do not like getting anxiety from Adobe's convoluted UX, UI." - Law S., 3/5
• "Very good value for the money." - Martin O., 3/5

Find more of Pixelmator reviews on G2!

Piktochart Reviews

Our users have given Piktochart an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5. They find it incredibly useful for creating visually appealing content with ease. Here are some of their thoughts:

• "Piktochart is very easy and simple to use online graphics creation tool." - ASHESHWAR Y.
• "Piktochart offers good looking pre-built templates for creating graphics." - Jakub J.
• "Easily Create Social Images and Infographics to Boost Business Services." - Rachel L.

Find more of our reviews on G2!

Why choose one over the other?

Why Choose Paint.NET:

• Consumers who are budget-conscious and primarily use Windows might prefer Paint.NET for its free access and ease of use. This software is ideal for beginners, hobbyists, and casual users who need a straightforward tool for basic to intermediate photo editing tasks.

Why Choose Pixelmator:

• Pixelmator is a better fit for professional photographers, graphic designers, and digital artists who need advanced photo editing tools and seamless integration with macOS. Its AI-powered features and machine learning enhancements make it a powerful choice for those seeking professional-grade capabilities.

Why Choose Piktochart:

• Piktochart is perfect for content creators, marketers, and educators who need to create engaging visual content quickly and easily. Its comprehensive suite of tools, including infographics, presentations, and social media graphics, makes it an excellent choice for users looking for an all-in-one visual communication platform.

Paint.NET, Pixelmator, or Piktochart: Which is the best platform for you?

Whether you're a budget-conscious Windows user, a professional Mac enthusiast, or a content creator looking for an all-in-one visual communication tool, there's a solution for you. While Paint.NET and Pixelmator offer robust features for image editing, we believe Piktochart stands out for its ease of use and versatility in creating stunning visuals. Give Piktochart a try and see how it can transform your ideas into captivating content effortlessly.