Online photo editors: choose by the job

ConverteArq Editorial Team · Updated 19 October 2026

A browser-based editor can be enough for a crop or color correction, while layered projects and social graphics call for different tools. This guide compares Photopea, Pixlr and Canva by workflow, based on each service’s own documentation; it is not a lab test or a ranking.

Photopea: layered editing and PSD files

Photopea works in a browser and uses PSD as its main working format. Its documentation says that common image files can be opened, edited with layers and exported to formats such as JPG or PNG. It also says files opened from a device stay on that device. Choose it when you need to keep an editable project or work with layers; check format compatibility before starting. Photopea documentation: opening and saving files · Photopea documentation: layers.

Pixlr: a browser editor with temporary projects

Pixlr Editor offers an interface with image, layer and export controls. Pixlr says project history is stored temporarily in the browser cache and recommends downloading a PXZ file to keep a project long term. It can suit quick edits and layered compositions, but save a copy before clearing browser data or switching devices. Pixlr Editor and temporary projects.

Canva: photos inside a design

Canva’s photo editor combines image adjustments with text and design elements. Its current product page lists cropping, rotation and other adjustments; it also says some features, including Background Remover and Magic Eraser, require eligible paid or education plans. Use it when the result is a post, cover or other composed design, and check which assets and functions your account can export. Canva photo editor and plan limits.

A quick way to choose

For PSD and layer-based editing, start with Photopea. For a temporary browser project with a more editor-like workspace, compare Pixlr and save the project file. For a layout with text, templates or design elements, consider Canva. Features and plan conditions can change, so confirm them on the provider’s site before you depend on a particular option.

Before uploading a personal photo

Read the current privacy and storage terms for the service you choose. Photopea documents local processing for files opened from your device; Pixlr describes temporary browser-cache history; Canva asks users to upload the image and links to its privacy policy. Avoid uploading identification documents, private images or other sensitive material unless you understand the service’s handling and have a reason to use it.

After editing, you can use the ConverteArq image-to-PDF tool to place images in a document. Keep an editable copy when you may need to revise the work later. Convert images to PDF.

FAQ

Official product information, checked 19 October 2026. Tool features, account requirements and plan limits may change. Check the provider’s current terms before uploading or exporting.