10 Best Photo Editing Software For Macs 2025 in the United States

Adobe Creative Cloud offers a powerful suite of over 20 creative apps, including industry-leading photo-editing tools like Photoshop, ideal for Mac users looking for professional-grade software. Its user interface is polished and familiar to many, though beginners might find it a bit complex initially. The editing tools are extensive, with Adobe Firefly adding innovative AI-powered features such as generative fill and text-based editing, making creative tasks faster and more flexible.

Performance is generally smooth, but it depends on your Mac’s hardware, as some apps can be resource-intensive. The software supports a wide range of file formats, ensuring compatibility with most photo and graphic files you’ll encounter. Integration with other Adobe apps, like Illustrator and XD, allows for seamless workflows if you use multiple design tools. Although the learning curve can be steep for newcomers, plenty of tutorials and support resources help ease this process.

The 12-month subscription includes 100GB of cloud storage, which is handy for accessing projects across devices but may feel limited if you work with extremely large files. Price-wise, this subscription model may be more costly over time than standalone apps, but it delivers continuous updates and access to the full Adobe creative ecosystem. Creative Cloud suits photographers and creatives who want a versatile, all-in-one solution and are ready to invest time in learning and a subscription plan.

Adobe Photoshop is a widely recognized photo-editing software that offers a comprehensive suite of tools for Mac users. Its user interface, while powerful, can be complex for beginners, which might result in a steep learning curve. However, the extensive range of editing tools available, including photo enhancement, illustration creation, and even 3D artwork, make it a versatile choice for professional and aspiring designers alike. The performance and speed of Photoshop are generally reliable on most Mac systems, ensuring that it can handle large files and complex projects efficiently.

Compatibility and integration are also strong points, as it seamlessly works with other Adobe products and various file formats, enhancing workflow. Customer support is robust, with numerous online resources and an active community to help users troubleshoot issues and learn new techniques. However, the price might be a drawback for some, as it requires a 12-month subscription with auto-renewal, which can be costly over time. Additionally, existing subscribers need to complete their current term before linking a new subscription, which may be inconvenient for some users.

Despite these drawbacks, Adobe Photoshop is a top choice for those in need of comprehensive and professional photo-editing software for Macs.

Adobe Lightroom is a feature-rich photo editing software that stands out for its AI-assisted capabilities, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users. Its user interface is intuitive and user-friendly, which is further highlighted by its 2024 App Store Award for Mac App of the Year. This makes it easy to navigate and use for Mac users. The editing tools are extensive, allowing you to adjust light, color, add presets, effects, and even remove unwanted elements using AI-powered Generative Remove.

The addition of AI tools like Lens Blur and Quick Actions helps in achieving professional results with minimal effort. Performance-wise, Lightroom runs smoothly on Macs, ensuring fast processing speeds even when handling large photo files. It is compatible with both desktop and mobile versions, offering great flexibility and integration with other Adobe products, which is beneficial for users who work across multiple devices.

The learning curve is manageable, thanks to simple text prompts and AI suggestions that guide users, but some advanced features might still require some time to master. Customer support and community resources from Adobe are robust, providing ample help and tutorials. The pricing, while premium, includes a 12-month subscription with auto-renewal and 1TB of storage, which is ideal for professional photographers who require extensive storage and regular updates. However, the subscription model might be a drawback for casual users who prefer a one-time purchase option. Adobe Lightroom excels in delivering a powerful and versatile photo editing experience, particularly for those invested in the Adobe ecosystem and requiring high-quality editing tools and cloud storage.