The purpose
A Roundup of Free Alternatives for Paid Windows Apps
| Alternatives | ||
| Image processing | Photoshop ClipStudio etc | Gimp Paint |
| Draw | Illustrator etc | Inkscape |
| Video editing | premiere etc | AviUtl |
| 3D | Maya etc | Blender |
Image processing
Gimp
Features
This is a free image processing application similar to Photoshop.
It comes with essential features such as layers and filters, and also supports reading and writing Photoshop’s PSD format.
Disadvantages
It lacks features such as assets and AI integration, which are typically found in paid applications.
Online resources and documentation are also somewhat limited.
It might have fewer features specifically designed for drawing, unlike Clip Studio Paint. (This is just my impression, as I haven’t used Clip Studio Paint myself.)
Download site
Paint
Features
This is Windows’ standard Paint software.
With the new version, it has become more convenient as you can now use transparent PNGs and layers.
While its processing capabilities are limited, some operations (such as cropping and background removal) can be performed more easily compared to other applications.
Disadvantages
Its features are limited.
While layers can be used for editing, they cannot be saved.
Draw
Inkscape
Features
This free software allows you to create and edit vector images, including SVG files.
It also boasts a considerably rich set of features.
Disadvantages
Online resources and documentation are scarce.
It’s often unclear whether a desired function is truly missing from the app or if there’s simply no documentation for it.
It occasionally crashes (in my environment).
Download site
Video editing
AviUtl
Features
This is a free video editing application.
It also supports a large number of plugins.
When configured and used properly, it can perform tasks that other free applications cannot, such as 4K output and MP4 output.
Disadvantages
The initial barrier to entry is quite high.
Out of the box, it doesn’t even support video preview.
Online resources are a mixed bag with a lot of outdated information, so it requires considerable effort to set up a truly functional environment.
Download site
３D
Blender
Features
This is a 3D modeler/renderer used even by professionals.
Its functionality can also be extended through extensions.
The large user base and abundant documentation are a great advantage.
Disadvantages
It has so many capabilities that it can be overwhelming at times.
Furthermore, as you delve deeper, you might find yourself writing node flows or Python scripts, indicating its profound depth and complexity.
Download site
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