Krita
Free, open-source digital painting application for illustrators, comic and concept artists.
Windows, macOS, Linux and Android builds under GPL-3.0
Krita is a free digital painting application aimed at artists who want to produce professional work from start to finish. It suits illustrators and comic artists who paint more than they retouch photos.
What it is
The README describes a free and open source painting application used by comic book artists, illustrators, concept artists, matte and texture painters and people in digital VFX. Official source is hosted by KDE and the GitHub repository is a mirror.
Who it's for
It suits painters and illustrators on Windows, macOS, Linux or Android tablets. It does not suit anyone on iPad or iPhone, which krita.org lists as unsupported, or people whose main job is photo retouching.
Key features
Painting application
Built for artists producing finished work, per the README.
Four platforms
Windows, macOS, Linux and Android builds on krita.org.
Nightly builds
Unstable and stable nightly channels hosted on cdn.kde.org.
Store editions
Paid copies on Microsoft Store, Steam, Epic Games Store and Mac App Store fund development.
VFX and texture use
The README names matte and texture painters and VFX users.
GPL-3.0 source
Source is open; files may carry compatible licences.
Up and running in 3 steps
Our honest verdict
What's great
- Free download with no account for Windows, macOS, Linux and Android.
- Used by comic, concept and texture artists according to its README.
- Portable Windows ZIP and Linux AppImage need no installer.
- Paid store copies are optional and only fund development.
Where it falls short
- No iPad or iPhone version is offered on krita.org.
- The GitHub repository is a mirror, so bug reports and merge requests go through KDE's own hosting.
- The README states no hardware requirements, so check performance on older machines yourself.
- It is a painting tool; photo retouching and print workflows are not what the README describes.
Pricing & license
Free under GPL-3.0. Optional paid copies on Microsoft Store, Steam, Epic Games Store and the Mac App Store support development; the only other cost is your own hardware.
Open remote AI-training roles
768 open remote AI-training roles, updated November 14, 2026; most pay $20–$175 an hour. Zekai lists them free; the application goes to the employer’s platform.
Alternatives
These reviewed AI tools do the same job instantly — from our scored directory.
Use it, or have us set it up
FAQ
Is Krita really free?
Yes under GPL-3.0; krita.org also sells copies on stores whose proceeds support development.
Does Krita run on iPad?
No. krita.org lists iPad and iPhone as not supported; Android is supported.
Is Krita a Photoshop replacement?
It replaces Photoshop for digital painting; for photo retouching and print composites it is a different tool.
