Choosing Between Photoshop and Affinity Photo in 2025
Learning Objectives
By the end of this chapter, you'll be able to:
- Compare the key differences between Photoshop and Affinity Photo
- Understand how subscription and one-time pricing models affect your budget
- Evaluate which toolset works better for your editing needs
- Make a confident decision about which software to start with
Introduction
Starting your photo editing path means choosing the right software from day one. Two options consistently top the list: Adobe Photoshop and Affinity Photo. Each takes a different approach to pricing, features, and workflow.
This chapter breaks down what matters most when you're getting started. We'll look at costs, capabilities, and compatibility so you can pick the software that fits your needs and budget.
Lessons
Lesson 1: Understanding the Pricing Models
The biggest difference between these programs is how you pay for them.
Adobe Photoshop uses a subscription model:
- Monthly payments of around £19.97 for the Photography Plan
- Annual plans offer slight discounts
- Includes cloud storage and regular updates
- Access stops when you cancel
Affinity Photo uses a one-time purchase:
- Single payment of around £69.99
- Own the software permanently
- Free updates within the same version
- No ongoing costs
Quick calculation: If you use Photoshop for more than three and a half years, Affinity Photo becomes the cheaper option. But Photoshop includes cloud features and constant updates that might justify the extra cost.
Lesson 2: Comparing Tools and Features
Both programs handle professional photo editing, but they approach it differently.
Photoshop's strengths:
- Industry standard with the most comprehensive toolset
- Advanced AI features like Content-Aware Fill and Sky Replacement
- Extensive third-party plugin support
- Regular feature updates
Affinity Photo's strengths:
- Streamlined interface that's easier for beginners
- Excellent performance with large files
- Professional features without the complexity
- No subscription pressure
Performance-wise, both programs run smoothly on modern computers. Affinity Photo often feels snappier, whilst Photoshop offers more ways to customise your workflow.
Lesson 3: File Compatibility and Workflow Integration
How well each program works with other software matters for your long-term workflow.
File compatibility:
- Affinity Photo handles PSD files excellently
- You can open, edit, and save Photoshop files without issues
- Some advanced Photoshop features might not transfer perfectly
- Affinity's native format offers better performance
Ecosystem integration:
- Photoshop connects seamlessly with Lightroom, Illustrator, and other Adobe apps
- Affinity Photo works well as a standalone program
- Creative Cloud sync keeps your work accessible across devices
- Affinity requires manual file management
This is the bit most people miss: if you're already using other Adobe programs, Photoshop makes everything work together smoothly. If you prefer keeping things simple, Affinity Photo won't tie you into a larger ecosystem.
Practice
Before making your decision, try this exercise:
- Write down three types of photos you want to edit (portraits, landscapes, product shots, etc.)
- List your budget for photo editing software over the next two years
- Note whether you use or plan to use other creative software
- Download trial versions of both programs and spend 30 minutes with each
Match your answers to what you've learned about each program's strengths.
FAQs
Which software is better for beginners?
Affinity Photo has a gentler learning curve, but Photoshop has more learning resources available online.
Can I switch between them easily?
Yes, Affinity Photo's PSD compatibility means you can move projects between programs without major issues.
Do I need the subscription features in Photoshop?
Only if you value cloud sync, the latest AI features, and integration with other Adobe apps. Many users work perfectly well without them.
Which gets better support and updates?
Photoshop receives monthly updates with new features. Affinity Photo gets fewer but more substantial updates.
Jargon Buster
PSD file – Photoshop Document format that preserves layers, effects, and other editing information
Subscription model – Pay monthly or yearly to use software, with access ending when payments stop
One-time purchase – Pay once to own software permanently, though major upgrades might cost extra
Content-Aware Fill – AI feature that intelligently removes objects by filling the space with matching background content
Wrap-up
Your choice between Photoshop and Affinity Photo depends on three main factors: budget, feature needs, and workflow preferences.
Choose Photoshop if you want the industry standard, plan to use other Adobe programs, or need cutting-edge AI features. The subscription cost is worth it if you'll use it regularly.
Choose Affinity Photo if you prefer owning your software, want excellent performance without complexity, or edit photos occasionally. The one-time cost makes it ideal for budget-conscious users.
Both programs will handle any photo editing task you throw at them as a beginner. The "wrong" choice is the one you don't actually use.
Ready to start your photo editing course? Join Pixelhaze Academy for step-by-step guidance: https://www.pixelhaze.academy/membership