Online Photo Editors vs. Installed Editing Software: Which Is Better for You?

In today’s digital age, photo editing has become an essential part of our lives, whether it’s a professional photographer editing their pictures or a regular person trying to perfect their selfies. There are two ways to edit photos: online or through software (installed on the computer or the phone). And while many prefer the software, online platforms offer unique features such as an outline maker like this one: https://create.vista.com/features/outline-pictures/. Let’s take a closer look at both options and compare the pros and cons of each.

Online Photo Editors

Online photo editors have become increasingly popular thanks to their convenience and ease of use. These editors are web-based, which means they don’t need to be installed on your computer. All you need is an internet connection and a web browser, and you’re ready to edit your pictures.

Pros

Convenient and accessible

One of the main advantages of online editors is that they are incredibly convenient. As they do not require installation, you can simply open a web browser, head to the website of your preferred editor, and start working on your photos immediately. This makes them especially useful for users who do not have access to their usual editing software or are on the go.

Cost-effective

Many online photo editors are available free of charge, allowing users to save money that would have otherwise been spent on expensive editing software. It’s worth noting, however, that free online photo editors often come with limitations on functionality, so users may need to purchase a premium subscription for more advanced features.

Collaborative

Online photo editors are also ideal for collaborations since multiple users can access the same files and work on them simultaneously. As long as each user has access to the internet, they can make edits in real time from different locations.

Cons

Limited functionality

As mentioned earlier, the free version of online photo editors typically comes with limitations on functionality and tools. As a result, these editors may not be the best option for professional photographers or experienced editors who need access to advanced features and functionality to make precise and intricate edits.

Limited file storage

Online photo editors store your edited images on their cloud servers, which usually have a limit on storage capacity. This can be an issue, particularly when dealing with large files.

Internet connection required

An internet connection is necessary to use online editors, which means users must be located within a network coverage area. If offline editing is required, an installed software version will be ideal.

Installed Photo Editing Software

Installed editing software is a program or an app that needs to be downloaded and installed on a computer or a portable device. These programs are generally more powerful than their online counterparts and offer users more freedom and complete control over their images, allowing them to make as many changes and tweaks as they need.

Pros

Full control

Editing software places full control in the hands of the user, which makes it an ideal tool for professionals and experienced editors. The software gives you access to a wide range of tools and features that offer advanced editing options that online editors cannot perform.

Non-dependent on internet connectivity

Installed software is not dependent on the internet, which means users do not need to be connected to a Wi-Fi network to use it. You can work on your images offline, which allows you to edit as and when required.

Large file support

Installed editing software has been designed to cater to professionals and offers the required tools for managing large files. These applications can handle large files and allow users to edit multiple images simultaneously with ease.

Cons

Costly

Editing software can be costly, especially for professionals who require advanced features and functionality. These costs can prove significant, particularly for small businesses or individual users.

Technical know-how

Using editing software requires technical know-how. At times, the vast array of tools and features can be overwhelming, requiring users to take training courses and undergo practice to be perfectly familiar with the software.

Time-consuming

Using photo editing programs can be time-consuming, from the installation process to the time needed to learn how to use them to their maximum capacity. This can add up to hours of work or days of training.

Conclusion

The choice between using online photo editors or installing editing software is down to your specific needs and preferences. If ease of use, accessibility, and convenience are essential, online photo editors might be the right choice. Still, if you’re a professional or require advanced functionality and tools to make precise edits, an installed version of editing software will meet your needs.