What Is Photoshop
Photoshop is a multifunctional and versatile pixel-based photo editing software developed by Adobe for Windows and macOS. It has become the industry standard for editing, which allows users to create and enhance photographs, illustrations, and other visual content. Plus, it’s now part of Adobe’s Creative Cloud family, which provides users with access to various software applications and services.
What Is Photoshop Elements
Photoshop Elements is a photo manipulation software from Adobe that provides users with various features and tools to manipulate and adjust images. It’s a simplified version of Photoshop, designed for users who want simple photo editing and quick edits. If you’re a beginner in image editing or a customer with a limited budget, then this program will suit you perfectly.
Photoshop Elements vs Photoshop: Key Differences
Now that you’re familiar with Photoshop Elements and Photoshop, let’s dive into a detailed comparison of Photoshop vs Photoshop Elements.
Photoshop Elements vs Photoshop: Price
As for Photoshop vs Photoshop Elements in price, the latter is a better investment. Unlike Adobe’s other programs, Photoshop Elements is offering a one-off payment, not a monthly subscription. It costs $69.99 now. On the other hand, Adobe Photoshop is a monthly subscription, not a one-time purchase. Today, it’s available for a cost of approximately $20.99 a month.
Photoshop Elements vs Photoshop: Ease of Use
Although Photoshop Elements and Photoshop offer many similar features, their ease of use is quite different. Photoshop Elements is aimed at users looking for a novice-friendly editing application. As an industry-standard application, Photoshop is a better choice, but the learning curve can be a bit steeper.
Photoshop Elements vs Photoshop: Workspaces
As a multifunctional program, Photoshop offers six spaces for working with it: 3D, Essentials, Graphic and Web, Motion, Painting, and Photography. In contrast, Photoshop Elements divides the editing process into three workspaces: Quick, Guided, and Expert, from the simplest to the most advanced.
The Quick mode has a simplified interface and limited editing tools focused on preset adjustments, making it ideal for new users. The Guided mode offers step-by-step on-screen instructions for a range of image editing tasks while you’re working on them. And the Expert mode features a full suite of editing tools for users who are ready to take full control of the image editing process.
Photoshop Elements vs Photoshop: Tools
Both Photoshop Elements and Photoshop were originally designed for working with pictures. If you want precise control over every aspect of photo editing or need more advanced features, such as 3D objects or top-notch color management, then choose Photoshop.
Photoshop Elements has fewer tools than Photoshop. Given that the program’s purpose is to make photo editing easier, it’s predictable that the program doesn’t focus on bringing in every tool. The rest is mostly in the realm of photo editing. That being said, Photoshop Elements does have some great tools.
Bonus Tip: A Decent Alternative to Photoshop Elements and Photoshop
Except for Photoshop Elements and Photoshop, there are many photo editing applications on the market. MiniTool MovieMaker is a highly recommended option here.
MiniTool MovieMakerClick to Download100%Clean & Safe
MiniTool MovieMaker is a simple yet professional program designed for enhancing your photo, video, and audio files. As for photo editing, it allows you to adjust the contrast, saturation, and brightness of images, apply 3D LUT to images, add filters, motion effects, text, and stickers to images, etc.
Which Is Right for You
Photoshop Elements vs Photoshop: which photo editor will be a better option for you? The choice between them depends on your needs and budget. If you’re a pro user, need access to advanced features, and can afford a subscription fee, then Photoshop is the better choice. If you are a beginner or a hobbyist who does not need to use advanced features, Photoshop Elements may be a more cost-effective choice.
About The Author
Position: Columnist
Lydia is always interested in new things and has been attracted deeply by writing. Her love for writing makes her become an English editor about multimedia in MiniTool. She’s determined to write articles about photos, audio, video, and other news to offer readers useful suggestions. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, reading, photography, and having fun with friends.