The 5 Best Chromebook Photo Editors of 2023

Use powerful features with your underpowered laptop

By
Scott Orgera
Scott Orgera
Scott Orgera
Writer
Scott Orgera is a former Lifewire writer covering tech since 2007. He has 25+ years' experience as a programmer and QA leader, and holds several Microsoft certifications including MCSE, MCP+I, and MOUS. He is also A+ certified.
lifewire's editorial guidelines
Updated on January 24, 2023

Chromebooks don't support many of the programs available for traditional Mac and Windows laptops. However, there are several powerful photo editors for Chrome OS available through the Google Play Store. Even better, some of the best Chromebook apps for photo editing are free. Here's a list of the best photo editing apps for your Chromebook.

These apps are available for Google Chrome and Android. Check the Google Chromium Projects website to find out whether your Chromebook model supports Android apps.

01
of 05

Best Overall Chromebook Photo Editor: Adobe Photoshop Express

Adobe Photoshop Express for Chromebook
What We Like

  • Import raw file types from cameras made by Canon, Epson, Fuji, Sony, and others.

  • User-friendly for Photoshop pros and novices.

  • Save edits without destroying the original file.

  • 100 percent free.

What We Don't Like

  • Lacks many features found in Photoshop CC.

  • Only exports JPEG files.

  • Requires an internet connection.

While you can't run a full-fledged version of Photoshop on your Chromebook, Adobe Photoshop Express is available as an Android app. It's ideal for quickly correcting common issues like red eyes before you upload pictures to social media, which you can do directly from Photoshop Express. There are also tools for adding watermarks, speech bubbles, and other creative effects.

02
of 05

Best Advanced Editing App: GIMP Online

GIMP Online for Chromebook
What We Like

  • In-depth online tutorials on the GIMP website.

  • Free and open-source.

  • Access all of GIMP's features in a web browser.

What We Don't Like

  • Intrusive ads get in the way of the interface.

  • Slow response times and laggy drawing tools.

Often referred to as the poor person's Photoshop, GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) is the most robust open-source photo editor around. The online version runs smoothly on Chrome OS. It supports advanced features like blending and anti-aliasing, in addition to a full suite of painting tools. Although GIMP doesn't have the most intuitive interface for beginners, it's more flexible than Photoshop Express.

03
of 05

Best App for Editing Webcam Photos: Pixlr

Pixlr for Chromebook
What We Like

  • Cloning, sharpening, blurring, and red-eye reduction tools. 

  • More integrated filters than most other editors.

What We Don't Like

  • PSD files containing multiple layers don't always open.

  • A pro subscription is required to unlock all features.

A browser-based editor with an impressive feature set, Pixlr permits progressive photo enhancements and the ability to design images from scratch. Common formats, including GIF, JPEG, and PNG, are supported, along with basic PSD files. The Pixlr dashboard works with a webcam to snap and tweak photos in real-time.

04
of 05

Best Photo Filters: Polarr Photo Editor

Polarr Photo Editor for Chromebook
What We Like

  • Works without an internet connection.

  • Helpful built-in tutorials.

  • Add cool effects like flares, clouds, rain, and more.

What We Don't Like

  • Doesn't support raw image files.

  • Batch editing and other advanced functionality require a paid upgrade. 

Polarr Photo Editor contains a respectable set of tools, including the ability to create and share your custom filters. It also supports advanced features like layers, masks, and blending modes. The interface is customizable, so you can group your favorite tools together in a convenient location. If you subscribe to Polarr Pro, you get unrestricted access to the program on all your devices.

05
of 05

Best for Layering: Sumo Paint

Sumo Paint for Chromebook
What We Like

  • A free trial is available.

  • Ideal for creating custom graphics and web comics.

What We Don't Like

  • Doesn't support Photoshop's default PSD format.

  • Must pay to remove ads and unlock all features.

If you have experience using Photoshop, then the Sumo Paint interface will look familiar, and the similarities don't stop at the surface. This handy web app's layering features pair nicely with a bevy of editing tools, including hundreds of brush presets and dozens of filters. The free version is limited. However, the paid version is a steal for everything you get.

Was this page helpful?