Acorn

Powerful Mac image editor with layers, filters and vector tools

softwarePhoto Editorsphoto editinggraphic designlayer support

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Alternatives

Pixelmator ProAI-suggested

Choose Pixelmator Pro if…

you need AI‑driven super‑resolution upscaling
you want smart selection powered by machine learning
you prefer GPU‑accelerated editing on macOS
you’re on a tight budget but need pro‑level tools

See details

Adobe PhotoshopAI-suggested

Choose Adobe Photoshop if…

you need AI‑driven Generative Fill for quick content
you require a Windows version to match your Mac workflow
you depend on a large third‑party plugin and brush ecosystem
you want continuous feature updates without buying a new

See details

GIMPAI-suggested

Choose GIMP if…

you need a zero‑cost solution
you work on Windows or Linux as well as macOS
you want to extend the editor with community plugins
you can accept a dated interface in exchange for free

See details

How to Decide

Acorn is a powerful Mac‑only image editor known for its layer‑based workflow, extensive filter library and one‑time purchase model. The alternatives split into a few clear camps: Pixelmator Pro leans on GPU‑accelerated, Mac‑native editing with built‑in machine‑learning tools; Adobe Photoshop emphasizes a subscription pricing model, cross‑platform availability and a massive plugin ecosystem; GIMP is chosen for its completely free, open‑source license and cross‑platform support.

When comparing these options, focus on (1) pricing model – one‑time purchase versus subscription versus free; (2) platform coverage – Mac‑only versus Windows/macOS/Linux; (3) tool depth and AI capabilities – basic non‑destructive edits versus advanced generative AI and ML features; (4) extensibility – availability of third‑party plugins or scripting APIs; and (5) native macOS integration – how closely the app follows macOS design conventions and performance optimizations.

All Alternatives

Adobe Photoshop

AI-suggested

Adobe Photoshop is the definitive tool for raster image editing, photo manipulation, and digital painting, used by photographers, designers, and artists worldwide. It now includes powerful generative AI (Generative Fill) via Adobe Firefly.

✦ Best for professional designers and artists

Paid (Subscription)ProprietaryWindowsMaciOSAdvanced layer-based rasterGenerative Fill andPrecise selection and

“Industry‑standard raster editor with full layer and filter support, serving the same photo‑editing needs as Acorn.”

Pixelmator Pro

AI-suggested

Pixelmator Pro is a polished, Mac-native image editor that pairs an approachable interface with machine-learning features like super resolution and smart selection. It is a one-time purchase popular with Mac users.

✦ Best for mac users seeking a pro editor alternative

Paid (One-time)ProprietaryMacMac-native, GPU-accelerated editingML-powered super resolutionOne-time purchase

“Mac‑native image editor with layers, filters and vector tools, directly comparable to Acorn's feature set.”

GIMP

AI-suggested

GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) is a free, open-source raster graphics editor offering many Photoshop-like capabilities at no cost. It is fully scriptable and runs on every major platform.

✦ Best for budget-conscious editors and hobbyists

FreeGPL-3.0WindowsMacLinuxFree and open-sourceLayers, masks, andScriptable and extensible