Pinta

Pinta is a free, open-source image editor that brings simplicity and power together in one intuitive package. Designed as a cross-platform alternative to Paint.NET, Pinta offers a clean, approachable interface that makes image editing accessible to users of all skill levels while providing the essential tools needed for both casual photo editing and more serious graphic design work.

Inspired by Paint.NET but built to run seamlessly across Windows, macOS, and Linux, Pinta fills the gap between overly simplistic paint programs and complex professional editors like GIMP or Photoshop. While GIMP and Photoshop offer extensive advanced features that can overwhelm beginners, Pinta focuses on user-friendly design without sacrificing functionality, making it the perfect choice for users who want more than basic paint tools but don't need enterprise-level complexity.

The latest Pinta 3.0 release represents a significant leap forward, featuring a complete port to GTK4 and Libadwaita that delivers a modern, polished user interface. This major update introduces fresh icons, improved performance, and enhanced gesture support, creating a more responsive and visually appealing editing experience. The modernized UI maintains Pinta's signature simplicity while providing better integration with contemporary desktop environments.

Version 3.0 brings powerful new features including advanced effects like Dithering, Voronoi Diagram, Vignette, and Feather Object, alongside customizable gradients and improved zoom controls. The update also restores add-in support, allowing users to extend Pinta's capabilities with custom plugins and brushes. These enhancements demonstrate Pinta's commitment to evolving while preserving its core philosophy of accessible, efficient image editing.

One of Pinta's standout features is its unlimited undo history, giving users complete freedom to experiment without fear of losing their work. Combined with comprehensive layer support, this creates a safe environment for creative exploration. Unlike many simple editors that lack layering capabilities, Pinta's layer system is both powerful and intuitive, enabling non-destructive editing workflows that professional designers expect.

The software excels in cross-platform compatibility, running natively on Windows 7+, macOS 10.12+, and various Linux distributions. This universal accessibility, combined with its lightweight 50MB footprint, makes Pinta an ideal choice for users who work across different operating systems or have limited storage space.

Built with C# and utilizing the GTK4 toolkit, Pinta delivers consistent performance across platforms while maintaining the familiar feel that users appreciate. The application supports over 35 effects and adjustments, providing extensive creative possibilities from basic color corrections to artistic filters, all with live preview capabilities that show changes in real-time.

Pinta's customizable workspace allows users to arrange tools and panels according to their preferences, creating a personalized editing environment. The flexible toolbar system supports both docked and floating configurations, adapting to different workflow styles and screen sizes.

Whether you're touching up photos, creating digital artwork, or designing simple graphics, Pinta provides the right balance of features and simplicity. Its open-source nature ensures continuous development and community support, while the MIT license guarantees freedom and accessibility for all users.