Head-to-head
Krita vs Procreate
2 tools, 10 differing data points, mostly pricing and positioning.
The verdict
Krita or Procreate?
Section 01
Pricing, plan by plan
Every plan each vendor publishes, monthly and yearly where both are offered.
KKrita
Free
Free
Free, open-source software with no paid tier
PProcreate
Procreate
$12.99 one-time
Bought once on the App Store, no subscription
Section 02
Pros and cons
From each tool's full review, written from the same checked facts.
KKrita
Pros
- Free forever, with no paid tier, subscription or account required.
- Opens and saves PSD files with layers intact.
- Transform masks and filter masks apply edits non-destructively.
- A documented Python scripting API and plugin support extend the app.
Cons
- No AI-based editing tools: no generative fill, AI upscaling, or automatic background removal.
- No batch processing across multiple files, only per-file Python scripting.
- No iOS or iPadOS version; it runs on Windows, macOS and Android in beta.
PProcreate
Pros
- Bought once for $12.99, with no subscription, and you keep it.
- Imports and exports PSD files with layers preserved.
- Non-destructive layer masks let you change edits without altering pixels.
- A native CMYK color profile alongside sRGB and P3 for print-facing work.
Cons
- Runs only on iPad; no Mac, Windows or Android version.
- No plugin or extension system for third-party tools.
- No batch processing across multiple files.
Side by side
| Company | ||
| Founded | 1998 | 2011 |
| HQ | Netherlands | Australia |
| Platforms | Windows, Mac, Linux, Android (beta) | iPad |
| Pricing | ||
| Pricing model | — | One-time purchase |
| Free plan | Yes, the whole app | No |
| Free trial | No | No |
| Starting price | Free | $12.99 one-time |
| All plans | Free — Free | Procreate — $12.99 one-time |
| Positioning | ||
| Best for | Artists who want a free, open-source painting and image editor with PSD support and CMYK painting | Illustrators who paint on an iPad and want to buy the app once, with no subscription and no generative AI |
| Differentiator | Krita is a free, open-source painting app that works in CMYK and opens and saves layered PSD files. | Procreate is an iPad painting app bought once, with CMYK canvases, PSD support and no generative AI. |
| Competitors | Procreate, GIMP, Adobe Photoshop | Krita, Pixelmator Pro, Adobe Photoshop |
Section 03
Krita vs Procreate: common questions
Is Krita or Procreate cheaper?
Krita's cheapest paid plan is Free and Procreate's is $12.99 one-time. Compare what each plan includes below before going on price alone.
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