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LightZone vs Pinta

Both stand on photo editing software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.

LightZone

Free plan LinuxMacWindows

LightZone provides a no-cost RAW-focused editor with batch processing and non-destructive tools across three desktop platforms. Check its layer limitation and Linux package coverage against your workflow.

Visit LightZone

Pinta

Free plan LinuxMacWindows

Pinta covers common drawing and image-editing tasks with layers, masks, previews, add-ins, and unlimited undo at no listed cost. Users should distinguish stable downloads from development builds and note that community packages lack official support.

Visit Pinta

The facts

LightZonePinta
Free planYesYes
Open sourceNot publishedNot published
Runs onLinux, Mac, WindowsLinux, Mac, Windows
Lowest paid planFree or on requestFree or on request
Plans published11
MakerNot publishedNot published
Websitelightzoneproject.orgpinta-project.com
On photo editing software#63 of 159#67 of 159

LightZone: what it does well

  • Free editor for Windows, macOS, and Linux
  • RAW processing with camera metadata display
  • Non-destructive, revisitable editing tools
  • Batch editing support
  • 16-bit ProPhoto RGB color workflow

What to know first

  • No layer editing
  • Linux packages listed only for Ubuntu-latest and Fedora 43
  • No paid plans stated
  • Broader Linux packaging is outside project scope

Pinta: what it does well

  • Free and open-source under the MIT license
  • Runs on Linux, macOS, and Windows
  • Layer editing and masking tools
  • Live previews for effects and adjustments
  • Unlimited undo

What to know first

  • Development builds may contain bugs
  • Development builds are not recommended for production
  • Community packages are not officially supported
  • No free trial

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