Best Free Open-Source Photo Editor for Windows 10: Top Picks for 2024

Whether you are a budding photographer in Bangalore, a graphic designer in San Francisco, or a hobbyist editing family photos on a weekend, the right photo editor can turn a simple snapshot into a masterpiece. Windows 10 users have a wealth of options, but not every tool respects your budget, privacy, or legal standards. In this guide we spotlight the best free open-source photo editors that run flawlessly on Windows 10, offering professional‑grade features without hidden fees or shady licenses.

Open‑source software means the source code is publicly available, audited by a global community, and free to use for commercial or personal projects. This translates into regular security updates, cross‑regional support, and the confidence that you are not violating any software agreements – a crucial factor for both Indian startups and U.S. enterprises alike.

Key Features

Below is a quick look at the core capabilities that make these editors stand out. While each program has its own personality, they all share a commitment to transparency, extensibility, and a thriving user community.

• Non‑destructive editing: Work on adjustment layers, masks, and smart objects without altering the original file.
• RAW support: Import and process RAW files from DSLR and mirrorless cameras, essential for professional workflows.
• Advanced color management: ICC profiles, HDR toning, and color grading tools for accurate visual output.
• Extensive plugin ecosystem: Add filters, brushes, and automation scripts tailored to photography, illustration, or UI design.
• Cross‑platform consistency: Same experience on Windows 10, macOS, and Linux – perfect for teams spread across continents.
• Multilingual UI: Fully translated interfaces for Hindi, English, Spanish, and many other languages.
• Low system footprint: Optimized for older laptops and budget PCs common in Tier‑2 Indian cities.

How to Install

Installation is straightforward for all three editors. Follow the steps that match your preferred tool.

1. GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program)

1. Visit the official GIMP download page: gimp.org/downloads.
2. Click the “Download GIMP 2.10.x for Windows” button – the site automatically detects your OS.
3. Run the .exe installer and accept the license agreement (GPL‑3.0).
4. Choose the default installation folder (e.g., C:\Program Files\GIMP 2) and click “Install”.
5. Once completed, launch GIMP from the Start menu and explore the welcome tutorial.

2. Krita

1. Navigate to krita.org/download and select the Windows installer.
2. Download the .exe file (64‑bit recommended).
3. Run the installer, accept the LGPL‑3.0 license, and keep the default component selections.
4. Finish the setup and open Krita – you’ll find a “Photo Editing” workspace under the “Start” screen.

3. Darktable

1. Go to the official Darktable page: darktable.org/install.
2. Download the Windows installer (e.g., darktable-4.6.0-setup.exe).
3. Run the installer, agree to the GPL‑3.0 license, and select the desired language.
4. After installation, launch Darktable and import your RAW images via the “Import” module.

Download Verdict: All three editors are 100 % legal, free, and open‑source. Choose GIMP for Photoshop‑like versatility, Krita for painterly tools, or Darktable for dedicated RAW workflow. Click the official links above to download safely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are these editors truly free for commercial use?
A: Yes. GIMP (GPL‑3.0), Krita (LGPL‑3.0) and Darktable (GPL‑3.0) allow unrestricted commercial use, distribution, and modification.

Q: Which editor handles RAW files the best?
A: Darktable is purpose‑built for RAW processing, offering a Lightroom‑style workflow. GIMP can open RAW via the UFRaw plugin, while Krita also supports RAW through the “Krita RAW” import filter.

Q: Do these tools support Hindi or other Indian languages?
A: GIMP and Krita have community‑maintained translations for Hindi, Marathi, Tamil, and many other languages. Darktable’s interface is primarily English, but the underlying menus are translatable.

Q: Can I use these editors on a low‑end laptop?
A: Absolutely. All three have modest system requirements (2 GB RAM minimum). For older machines, consider installing the portable versions of GIMP or Krita, which run without full system integration.